You Won’t Believe How Different This Elden Ring Nightreign Feature Was in Early Builds

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Initially, the concepts for “Elden Ring Nightreign” were dramatically distinct from their final form. FromSoft’s recent release has garnered both praise and criticism, but it shares many similarities with “Elden Ring,” while still introducing some exciting new elements.

Fun fact: You might not be aware that the “Shifting Earth” feature wasn’t included in the initial design for the game “Nightreign”. In an interview, director Junya Ishizaki shared that at first, they aimed for a more conventional map layout. However, the decision to incorporate the “Shifting Earth” feature has given the game an exciting and promising twist!

Elden Ring Nightreign could’ve been way different





In a recent interview with CNET on May 31, 2025, FromSoft Director Junya Ishizaki disclosed that initial concepts of Elden Ring Nightreign (previously unnamed) featured a more conventional roguelike structure. Originally, the game design would’ve included more stationary, independent stages. Each Nightlord was envisioned to have its distinct map or area to facilitate easier navigation for players.

Initially, we considered using multiple distinct maps for each gaming session. Later on, however, we contemplated merging all of them into one map, adding layers and dynamic changes that would take place throughout the session instead.

However, this didn’t materialize as planned, and the pivot resulted in the Shifting Earth events – a system that drastically alters significant portions of the world each time you start a game in Nightreign. Following the defeat of the initial Nightlord, the Limveld map may transform into regions reminiscent of Elden Ring’s most distinctive locales.

For each Earth Shift event, you’ll encounter entirely fresh adversaries, tough boss battles, and rewards that drastically change the game dynamics. This system wouldn’t have been feasible with individual static maps, and it significantly underscores the roguelike essence of this game. After vanquishing your initial Nightlord, there’s a likelihood one out of four events could trigger in your subsequent playthroughs.

As night descended upon Limveld, a crowd of two million Nightfarers stood up in defiance.

Appreciate your backing. #ELDENRING #NIGHTLYREBELLION

— ELDEN RING (@ELDENRING) May 30, 2025

At present, you’ll encounter four distinct geographical changes on the map. These include The Crater, The Mountain Peak, The Decaying Forest, and Noklateo, the Veiled City. Each change affects a quadrant of the map and brings fresh content along with it.

FromSoft really let the devs try out whatever they want

Nightreign” isn’t merely another Soulslike game; it’s a cooperative roguelike experience offering replayability and unforeseen elements. During an interview, Ishizaki discusses this unique aspect. He describes how the single-map design enables the team to incorporate shifting terrain layers, ensuring that each playthrough is distinct. Instead of anticipating familiar challenges, it infuses a sense of surprise.

Rather than creating four individual maps, they constructed one versatile map that could emulate the experience of four, contingent upon the player’s advancement and decisions. However, this innovative design does carry a cost. For instance, if you discover an area you’re eager to delve into or a boss you wish to confront, any early death could render your entire journey seemingly futile, necessitating a fresh start.

Despite some mixed reviews on Steam, it’s clear that Nightreign is thriving. The game, which carries the distinctive FromSoft touch, or perhaps one of its unique elements, has seen remarkable success. In fact, it’s their studio’s biggest game launch yet in terms of concurrent players. A new balance patch is on its way this week. So, keep an eye out for updates!

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2025-06-02 16:33