Elden Ring Network Test Unveils Playtime Limits

Elden Ring Nightreign Network Test: A Three-Hour Daily Limit

The upcoming Elden Ring Nightreign network test will impose a three-hour daily playtime restriction, FromSoftware has announced. This limited access test, running from February 14th to 17th, is exclusively for Xbox Series X/S and PlayStation 5 players. Applications are currently open via the official FromSoftware website.

The news follows the phenomenal success of Elden Ring, FromSoftware's 2022 open-world RPG. The game's popularity continues to surge, fueled in part by the anticipation surrounding Nightreign, a spin-off title revealed at The Game Awards 2024. This announcement surprised many, as developers previously stated there were no plans for a sequel or further DLC beyond the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion.

Nightreign's network test serves a crucial purpose: "a preliminary verification test...to examine various technical verifications of online systems by conducting large-scale network load tests," according to the official website. While PC players are excluded from this initial test, the final game will support the platform.

This new title represents a significant departure for FromSoftware. Unlike its predecessor, Nightreign prioritizes cooperative gameplay and incorporates roguelike elements, including procedurally generated encounters. While a release date remains unannounced, the network test suggests a launch is imminent. The three-hour daily limit, while potentially disappointing to some, is a necessary step in ensuring a smooth online experience for the full release.