Elden Ring: Nightreign Review

Overview
Elden Ring: Nightreign is a standalone co-op action RPG spin-off from FromSoftware, set in the Elden Ring universe. Released on May 30, 2025, for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S, it reimagines the Elden Ring formula as a roguelite with a focus on three-player co-op, fast-paced expeditions, and randomized runs. Priced at $39.99 for the Standard Edition and $54.99 for the Deluxe Edition, it’s a bold experiment that blends Elden Ring’s combat with battle royale and roguelite elements. But does it live up to the legacy of its predecessor? Here’s a detailed review covering its pros, cons, value, and more.

Pros

1. Thrilling Combat and Class Variety
   Nightreign retains the deliberate, satisfying combat of Elden Ring, but tweaks it to be faster and snappier, drawing inspiration from Sekiro’s precision and Bloodborne’s mobility. The eight Nightfarer classes—such as the all-rounder Wylder, spell-slinging Recluse, and katana-wielding Executor—offer distinct playstyles with unique skills and ultimate abilities. For example, Wylder’s clawshot and explosive ultimate add flair to melee, while Recluse’s FP-regenerating skill enables spamming powerful spells like Taker’s Flame. These mechanics encourage creative builds and synergies, especially in co-op, where combining class abilities can turn fights into spectacles.
2. Spectacular Boss Fights
   The Nightlord boss battles are a highlight, often cited as some of FromSoftware’s best. Each Nightlord has two phases with stunning, cinematic attacks, and arenas transform dynamically (e.g., from sandscapes to ocean floors). Even returning bosses like The Nameless King feel fresh in the context of Nightreign’s mechanics, though they’re easier than expected for veterans. The ability to queue for specific or random bosses adds flexibility and keeps runs engaging.
3. Addictive Co-op Gameplay
   When played as intended—with a coordinated trio—Nightreign shines as a thrilling co-op experience. The 30–45-minute expeditions, structured across three “days” with a shrinking map, create urgency and reward teamwork. Reviving teammates by “smacking” them adds a humorous, chaotic charm, and shared moments of triumph (like nailing a Nightlord) foster camaraderie. For players with friends, it’s a rush of adrenaline and strategy.
4. Replayability Through Randomization
   The roguelite structure ensures no two runs are identical. Limveld’s map, while built on familiar Elden Ring assets, features randomized enemy placements, loot drops, and events like volcanic eruptions or rot-infested areas. Weapons come with random passives and skills, encouraging experimentation (e.g., Star Fists with Quickstep or Death’s Poker with high damage). Permanent Relics, earned by defeating bosses, add progression, letting you tweak builds over time.
5. No Microtransactions
   Unlike many modern multiplayer games, Nightreign avoids battle passes or microtransactions. All content, including hidden classes like the Revenant, is unlockable through gameplay. This approach feels refreshing and respects players’ investment.

Cons

1. Repetitive Map and Assets
   While Limveld’s layout randomizes points of interest, the core map and assets are heavily recycled from Elden Ring’s Limgrave and Liurnia. After a few runs, players will notice familiar churches, ruins, and enemies, which reduces the sense of discovery compared to Elden Ring’s expansive world. The lack of varied music and visual splendor further dulls the experience over time.
2. Poor Solo Experience
   Nightreign is balanced for three-player co-op, and solo mode feels punishing. Without teammates to revive you or share the load, bosses and enemies (like Wormface or Golden Hippo) can overwhelm under-leveled players. Recent patches have improved solo balance, but it’s still not recommended for lone wolves.
3. Matchmaking and Multiplayer Issues
   The lack of duo mode (though planned for post-launch) and crossplay limits accessibility. Matchmaking with randoms can be frustrating due to absent voice chat and limited communication tools (pings only). Network errors occasionally boot players, costing a level upon rejoining. These issues hinder the co-op focus, especially for players without a dedicated group.
4. Limited Story and Worldbuilding
   Nightreign sacrifices Elden Ring’s rich lore for a lighter narrative focused on character-driven “Remembrance” questlines. While these add depth to the Nightfarers, the broader world of Limveld feels shallow, with minimal item descriptions or environmental storytelling. Lore enthusiasts may find it lacking compared to FromSoftware’s usual esoteric depth.
5. Steep Learning Curve and Repetitive Grind
   The fast-paced, decision-heavy gameplay can overwhelm newcomers, with runs feeling like a “trial-by-fire” due to the shrinking map and constant pressure. After 20–30 hours, the repetitive loop of scavenging, leveling, and fighting bosses can wear thin, especially with lackluster meta-progression (Relics feel minor). Some players report runs feeling “pointless” without a Nightlord victory.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $39.99 (Standard) or $54.99 (Deluxe, including DLC with extra characters and bosses, plus a digital artbook and soundtrack), Nightreign’s value depends on your preferences. For Elden Ring fans who love co-op and roguelites, it’s worth the price for its thrilling combat, inventive classes, and replayable runs. The lack of microtransactions and promise of future updates (e.g., duo mode, more content by Q4 2025) add longevity. However, solo players or those expecting Elden Ring’s depth may find it overpriced for what feels like an “asset flip” with repetitive maps and limited storytelling. If you don’t have friends to play with, consider waiting for patches to address matchmaking and solo balance.

Additional Notes of Interest

• For Souls Veterans: Nightreign blends Elden Ring’s combat with Sekiro’s parries and Bloodborne’s agility, making it a love letter to FromSoftware’s legacy. Cameos like The Nameless King add nostalgia, though some feel out of place lore-wise.
• Roguelite Appeal: Fans of Hades or Risk of Rain 2 will appreciate the randomized loot and fast-paced runs, but the lack of enemy variety and rigid progression may disappoint compared to genre staples.
• Art and Sound: The art direction, especially in boss arenas, is stunning, with cosmic spectacles and dynamic skyboxes. However, the soundtrack is less memorable outside of boss fights.
• Community Sentiment: Steam reviews are mixed, with some praising the co-op thrill and others decrying the departure from traditional Souls-like gameplay. It’s FromSoftware’s worst-reviewed game on Steam, but player counts (150,000–300,000 at launch) show strong interest.
• Future Potential: FromSoftware’s commitment to post-launch support (duo mode, new characters, bosses) could address current flaws, making it a safer buy later.

Final Verdict

Elden Ring: Nightreign is a daring, flawed experiment that excels when played with friends, offering pulse-pounding co-op and spectacular boss fights. Its roguelite spin condenses Elden Ring’s highs into bite-sized runs, but repetitive maps, a lackluster solo mode, and multiplayer hiccups hold it back from greatness. For $39.99, it’s a solid purchase for co-op enthusiasts and Souls fans open to something new, but others might want to wait for updates. It’s not Elden Ring’s masterpiece, but it’s a thrilling detour worth taking with the right crew.

Score: 8/10