The first network test for Elden Ring Nightreign, currently underway, is facing significant server issues, preventing many players from accessing the game. IGN staff who had access to the test experienced such severe server problems that they couldn't play for the first hour. FromSoftware acknowledged the issue on social media, confirming that server congestion was causing difficulties in finding matches. They apologized and encouraged players to retry after some time.

The problem is compounded by the limited availability of the test, which is only accessible during five three-hour windows on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and S from February 14 to February 17. Here is the schedule for the Elden Ring Nightreign network test sessions:

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 test as a "preliminary verification test in which the selected testers play a portion of the game prior to the full game launch." They emphasize that this large-scale Network Stress Test is intended to assess the online system's functionality and performance, and they seek player cooperation to enhance Elden Ring Nightreign.

While it's preferable for Elden Ring Nightreign to encounter these server issues now rather than at its May launch, players who set aside time to participate in the test are understandably frustrated. There is hope that future sessions will operate more smoothly.

Elden Ring Nightreign is FromSoftware's standalone cooperative spin-off, set in a world parallel to the 2022 Elden Ring. The network test enables three players to collaborate, guiding their chosen Nightfarers through battles against new threats, exploring an ever-changing map to defeat increasingly challenging bosses, and ultimately confronting the Nightlord. The test also features a three-day-and-night cycle that squads must endure.

Last year, IGN visited FromSoftware and had the chance to experience an early build of Elden Ring Nightreign firsthand. They were impressed, noting that the game "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 about 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.