Metascore
84

Generally favorable reviews - based on 7 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 7
  2. Negative: 0 out of 7
Buy Now
Buy on
  1. May 28, 2025
    95
    Elden Ring: Nightreign aims to be one of the best games of the year and one of the greatest multiplayer approaches of the franchise (especially for those players that enjoy co-op the most). Even though this videogame is not directed by Hidetaka Miyazaki, we believe it is at the same level of craftsmanship to delight all fans.
  2. May 28, 2025
    90
    If you have a reliable squad to run Elden Ring Nightreign with, then this is as easy a sell as the original Elden Ring, but I’m at a loss to understand why crossplay is not in place.
  3. May 28, 2025
    90
    FromSoftware has created a new format within its universe, and it's done so without betraying its essence. Nightreign not only expands the game's scope, it also expands the possibilities of the genre, and is sure to set a new standard.
  4. May 28, 2025
    85
    Elden Ring Nightreign blends soulslike intensity with mechanics from other genres. A high-adrenaline yet deep game, it introduces a blast of fresh air with ideas like shrinking safe zones and build-from-scratch expeditions. While solo play needs refining and asset reuse is noticeable, strong combat and co-op potential make it a worthy entry point for newcomers and a satisfying twist for veterans.
  5. May 28, 2025
    80
    Elden Ring Nightreign is yet another playful slice of experimentation, with breezy movement and rich multiplayer mechanics.
  6. May 28, 2025
    80
    Even though we find the same graphic style and some familiar areas, we feel a slight lack of artistic risk-taking, a somewhat recycled bestiary and menus that haven't changed one iota. On the gameplay side, class balancing still needs adjustments and world events like raids, rare terrains or cataclysms remain too rare to permanently break the routine. The communication system boils down to a ping that isn't always precise, and attempting the adventure solo borders on a feat, given the high difficulty and the need for a cohesive team. However, the game manages to create a strong addiction: even when a run turns into a disaster, we want to try our luck again to take advantage of our character's progression curve and the pride of defeating a boss. Nightreign won't appeal to all players, its severity and small flaws may frustrate more than a few, but it brings a breath of fresh air to the studio. It's a good start, we'll say.
  7. Jun 5, 2025
    70
    Elden Ring Nightreign is ultimately carried by FromSoftware’s rock-solid gameplay systems, now applied across a fresh mix of subgenres. It’s an energetic and gripping experience, especially when the evolving world and signature combat loop click. However, the absence of modern social features like cross-play or voice chat, plus a strict focus on three-player co-op, makes it less welcoming for duos or solo adventurers. While some ideas may carry into future mainline titles, this spin-off leans heavily on proven formulas - for better and worse.
This publication does not provide a score for their reviews.
This publication has not posted a final review score yet.
These unscored reviews do not factor into the Metascore calculation.
  1. May 28, 2025
    There is a certain type of player who is going to love this game. That person is not me. I’ve not been this disappointed by a Fromsoftware game in a long time. And I’ve played Murakumo: Renegade Mech Pursuit.
  2. May 28, 2025
    This review might seem a little contradictory, critiquing and then partially absolving those critiques, but this is a review in progress after all. I’m still forming my final opinion of the game as I keep playing it, but what I can tell you now is that if you’re interested in Elden Ring combat and exploration, and also have a couple of friends who are, Elden Ring: Nightreign is a game full of depth and plenty of things to kill and places to explore. That being said, my mostly solo-play experiences were a mixed bag at best, preventing me from praising the game too much or giving a high “review-in-progress” temporary score. [Provisional Score = 72]
  3. Jul 2, 2025
    Nightrein fulfils the dream of going of roaming a familiar universe with friends. Will you be hooked on it all night? Not necessarily. However, FromSoftware's DNA is clearly present in the learning curve, the challenges and the feeling of pushing yourself beyond your limits. Nightreign is a roguelike game whose addictive potential will depend on how much you invest in it. Its multiplayer aspect could be improved with for example the much-requested two-player mode, integrated chat, or simply cross-play. Still, it's a nice dip into multiplayer gaming, and we look forward to seeing how the studio integrates this aspect into its future productions.