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FromSoftware's upcoming PvPvE title shows promise, but players report input lag and frame rate issues during the early network test
After a false start that left eager fans refreshing their consoles, FromSoftware has finally resumed The Duskbloods network test for curious Switch 2 owners. The early access period has given players their first real taste of this ambitious online PvPvE title, and while there are definitely positives to report, performance issues are already frustrating a portion of the player base.
The most significant complaints center around input lag and frame rate drops, particularly when playing in handheld mode. Reddit user RamenRavisher shared their experience in this detailed post, noting that the time between button presses and on-screen action can feel substantial enough to impact combat effectiveness.
It's crucial to remember that this is a network test, and there is still time for optimization before the game's eventual release. The Elden Ring publisher has yet to narrow down its 2026 release window, suggesting that development is continuing apace. However, early impressions indicate that the development team has significant work ahead to address these performance concerns.
Frame Rate Analysis: Docked vs. Handheld Performance
According to network test participants, frame rates in docked mode typically range from 40 to 60 fps. When multiple characters occupy the screen during intense encounters, the visuals can become slightly choppy. Even with these fluctuations, most players report that the dips generally aren't severe enough to completely spoil the experience.
The situation changes when players conduct The Duskbloods network test in handheld mode. Frame rates noticeably dip to the 30-40 fps range, though Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) technology likely helps minimize the stuttering that would otherwise occur. Despite this, many gamers express greater concern about input lag as the maximum 8-player clashes unfold on the smaller screen.
Input Lag: The Primary Concern
The most troubling feedback from the network test centers on input responsiveness. Redditor RamenRavisher estimates that the duration between button presses and inputs registering can be up to 200 milliseconds—a delay that can prove fatal in a game where split-second reactions determine victory or defeat.
What makes this particularly concerning is that the problem doesn't appear related to insufficient bandwidth or poor connection to the network test servers. Even the offline tutorial section, which shouldn't be affected by network conditions, reportedly exhibits similar lag issues. This suggests the input delay is fundamental to the game's current build rather than a networking problem.
With dodging and blocking mechanics that are absolutely vital for survival, frame rates take clear priority over resolution in the current build. That said, despite fans praising the game's distinctive artwork and visual style, the graphics look noticeably fuzzy at times. Visuals appear to render at 1080p even when the console is docked, which is somewhat disappointing for a title that many hoped would showcase the Switch 2's capabilities.
FromSoftware's History with Performance Optimization
Leading up to The Duskbloods release date announcement, FromSoftware followers have expressed understandable concerns about Switch 2 hardware limitations. The publisher's previous titles, including Elden Ring and Nightreign, both suffered from frame pacing issues even on more powerful systems. Lackluster Elden Ring performance on Nintendo's previous hardware was also a contributing factor to that port's postponement.
The fact that this latest project is a Switch 2 exclusive game has naturally raised expectations among the fanbase. After all, developing exclusively for a single platform should theoretically allow for deeper optimization than a multi-platform release. However, the early network test results suggest that creating a smooth experience with up to 8 concurrent players presents unique challenges.
Another Reddit user shared similar sentiments, describing performance as "mid" and pointing to the same input lag issues. The consistency of these reports across multiple players indicates a genuine concern rather than isolated technical problems.
The Jury Is Still Out
It's worth emphasizing that early network tests rarely represent the final product. FromSoftware has a track record of improving performance post-launch, and the long development window suggests there's ample time to address these issues before the 2026 launch.
There are promising signs in The Duskbloods—the core gameplay loop appears engaging, the art direction is receiving praise, and the PvPvE concept has excited fans who enjoy the studio's signature challenging combat. However, the development team will need to significantly improve combat responsiveness and overall performance to deliver the experience that Switch 2 owners are hoping for.
For now, the network test serves as a valuable data-gathering exercise. Players participating in the test are helping FromSoftware identify bottlenecks and optimization opportunities. Whether the final product will address these concerns remains to be seen, but early feedback suggests the developers have their work cut out for them.
As one player put it: "Absolutely fucking love this game, here are my few concerns." That sentiment seems to capture the current mood—excitement about the potential tempered by genuine performance worries that need resolution before launch.
The Duskbloods is expected to release exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026. Stay tuned for further updates as the network test continues.
so far mid performance and heavy input lag
by u/Artistic_Ad5379 in TheDuskbloods