Elden Ring Network Test Hit by Server Woes, FromSoftware Apologizes

Elden Ring: Nightreign’s inaugural network test, currently underway as this article is published, has been marred by severe server issues, leaving many players unable to participate. IGN staff members with access to the test reported being locked out of the game for the first hour due to overwhelming server congestion. In response, FromSoftware acknowledged the issue on social media, apologizing for the difficulties players faced in finding matches. The developer urged patience, suggesting that trying again after some time might resolve the problem.

The network test, scheduled across five three-hour sessions from February 14 to February 17 on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, has intensified frustrations among fans. Here’s the remaining timetable:

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

This test serves as a “preliminary verification” phase, allowing selected participants to experience part of the game ahead of its full release in May. According to Bandai Namco, the goal is to stress-test the online system’s functionality and performance. Despite the setbacks, this early troubleshooting is preferable to encountering similar problems post-launch.

Elden Ring: Nightreign, a cooperative spin-off set in a parallel universe to 2022’s Elden Ring, lets players team up in groups of three. As Nightfarers, they face new adversaries, navigate evolving maps, and confront escalating challenges, culminating in a showdown with the Nightlord. The test also includes a dynamic day-and-night cycle, where squads must endure for three days.

Last year, IGN visited FromSoftware to preview an early version of Elden Ring: Nightreign, coming away impressed by its fast-paced combat mechanics. For further insights, read IGN’s interview with game director Junya Ishizaki.

Elden Ring: Nightreign releases on May 30, 2025, priced at $40, available on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC via Steam.