The first network test for Elden Ring Nightreign, currently underway, is facing significant server issues that have prevented many players from accessing the game. IGN staff members who had access to the test reported that they were unable to play for the first hour due to these severe server problems.

FromSoftware acknowledged the issue on social media, confirming that server congestion was causing difficulties for players trying to find a match. The developer apologized for the inconvenience and encouraged players to attempt matching again after some time.

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 from February 14 to February 17. Here is the current 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 described 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 emphasized that this large-scale Network Stress Test is designed to evaluate various aspects of the online system's functionality and performance, and they are looking forward to player cooperation to enhance Elden Ring Nightreign.

While it's preferable that these server issues occur during the test phase rather than at the game's launch in May, players who had set aside time to participate have expressed their frustration. There is hope that subsequent play sessions will run 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 allows three players to team up as Nightfarers to battle new terrors, explore an ever-changing map, defeat increasingly challenging bosses, and ultimately confront the Nightlord. Bandai Namco also confirmed that the network test features a three-day-and-night cycle that squads must try to outlast.

Last year, IGN had the opportunity to visit FromSoftware and go hands-on with an early build of Elden Ring Nightreign. 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 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.