Elden Ring: Nightreign (Network Test): First Impressions

*Note: Updated in June 2025 in an effort to remove AI-generated content from the blog.

Elden Ring: Nightreign is already shaping up to be exactly what fans were hoping for. FromSoftware’s gameplay still feels tight and rewarding, with that perfect balance of risk and timing in combat. There are some small tweaks and new mechanics that mix things up just enough, but it still plays and feels like classic Elden Ring – in the best way possible.

The world design is just more of Elden Ring, with an even more vibrant atmosphere.

That said, the opening moments can feel overwhelming. The test drops you into a new area with little direction, and it takes a while to find your footing. But like Elden Ring, it rewards patience (you'll need a lot), curiosity (you better not look around much or you'll die), and learning through exploration (you'll learn nothing). Once it clicks, it clicks.

We did run into a few server issues – lag, connection drops, the usual network test stuff. It’s frustrating, but expected. With FromSoftware’s track record, there’s a good chance it’ll be smoothed out before launch.

If you're into Elden Ring or Souls-style games, Nightreign looks like another standout. It’s familiar in all the right ways, but still manages to feel fresh.

Check out the rest of our Elden Ring content:

- Elden Ring: The Review;

- Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree: The Review - out September 2025;

- Elden Ring: Nightreign: The Review - out early 2026.