Elden Ring's First Network Test Hit by Server Problems, FromSoftware Apologizes

The initial network test for Elden Ring Nightreign, currently underway, is facing significant server issues that have barred many players from participating. Reports from IGN staff indicate that the problems were so severe that they couldn't access the game for the first hour of the test. In response, FromSoftware took to social media to acknowledge the server congestion causing difficulties in matchmaking and offered an apology, urging players to attempt connecting again later.

The situation is further complicated by the limited availability of the Elden Ring Nightreign network test, which is only accessible during five three-hour windows on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and S, spanning from February 14 to February 17. Here's the detailed schedule:

Elden Ring Nightreign network test session timings:

• February 14: 3am-6am PT / 6am-9am ET
• February 14: 7pm-10pm PT / 10pm-1am ET
• February 15: 11am-2pm PT / 2pm-5pm ET
• February 16: 3am-6am PT / 6am-9am ET
• February 16: 7pm-10pm PT / 10pm-1am ET

Bandai Namco describes the network test as a "preliminary verification test in which the selected testers play a portion of the game prior to the full game launch." They further explained, "This large-scale Network Stress Test is designed to evaluate various aspects of the online system's functionality and performance. We are looking forward to your cooperation to make Elden Ring Nightreign even better."

While it's preferable for Elden Ring Nightreign to encounter these server issues during the test rather than at its May launch, players who had planned to participate have voiced their frustrations. There's hope that future sessions will operate more smoothly.

Elden Ring Nightreign is FromSoftware's standalone co-operative spin-off, set in a world parallel to that of 2022's Elden Ring. The network test enables three players to join forces as Nightfarers, battling new terrors, exploring an ever-changing map, and tackling increasingly challenging bosses with the ultimate goal of confronting the Nightlord. Bandai Namco also noted that the network test includes a three-day-and-night cycle that squads must endure.

Last year, IGN had the chance to visit FromSoftware and go hands-on with an early build of Elden Ring Nightreign. Our impressions were positive, stating that Elden Ring Nightreign "takes the cautious dungeon crawls of Elden Ring and turbocharges them into propulsive, slash 'n' dash speedruns."

For more insights, check out IGN's interview with game director Junya Ishizaki for even more on Elden Ring Nightreign.

Elden Ring Nightreign is set to launch on May 30, 2025, priced at $40, and will be available on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC via Steam.