FromSoftware’s highly anticipated expansion, Elden Ring: Nightreign, is still two months away from release, but it has already stirred up massive excitement—and controversy—across the gaming world. A mix of leaks, network test insights, and official announcements have painted a compelling picture of Elden Ring Runes  what players can expect when Nightreign launches on May 30, 2025.

Despite Bandai Namco’s swift efforts to scrub unauthorized content from the internet, information is already out there. From returning Dark Souls bosses to new hero-based gameplay and roguelike elements, here’s a deep dive into everything we know about Elden Ring: Nightreign so far.

How Did the Latest Nightreign Leak Happen?
Over the weekend, a low-quality TikTok video began circulating online, showcasing never-before-seen footage from Nightreign. Initially mistaken for content from the closed network test, keen-eyed fans quickly identified unique enemies, abilities, and environments that confirmed it was real, unreleased gameplay.

The individual responsible for the leak claimed to be an alpha tester, asserting that the network test only included about 40% of the alpha build’s full content. Bandai Namco quickly responded with copyright strikes, effectively confirming the footage’s authenticity. The leaker even hinted at plans to stream additional gameplay, though those efforts were swiftly shut down.

Whether the leaker was the original source or someone who obtained the footage through unofficial channels remains unknown. Regardless, Bandai Namco is reportedly investigating the breach, and access for the involved party has likely been revoked.

Leaked Content & Network Test Revelations
Despite the controversy, the leak—combined with verified details from the network test—has shed significant light on Nightreign’s game structure, bosses, and core gameplay changes.

1. Bosses: New Foes and Dark Souls Veterans
One of the most exciting details concerns the bosses, which include both new adversaries and returning legends from FromSoftware’s past.

Leaked Returning Bosses
Dancer of the Boreal Valley (Dark Souls 3): Known for her elegant yet lethal movements, Dancer appears to be a night-themed boss. Her attack animations were showcased in the leaked footage, hinting at a revamped encounter.

Gaping Dragon (Dark Souls 1): This grotesque beast was seen unleashing acid-based attacks, which devastated Spirit Summons in one hit—suggesting it has been rebalanced for Nightreign’s faster pace.

Centipede Demon (Dark Souls 1): Confirmed in both leaks and the network test, redesigned to fit Nightreign’s combat rhythm.

Duke’s Dear Freja (Dark Souls 2): The terrifying two-headed spider makes a reappearance, alongside hordes of smaller arachnids.

Confirmed Night Lords & New Bosses
Nightreign centers around eight Night Lords, ultimate adversaries that players can tackle in any order. One confirmed boss is:

Triphos: A monstrous three-headed wolf wielding a chain sword. His brutal attacks and chaotic pacing make him a standout.

Other notable bosses include:

Draconic Tree Sentinel: Returning with enhanced fire-based attacks.

Morgit, the Fell Omen: No longer a gatekeeper, now a roaming boss with enhanced AI.

Unnamed Dragon Creature: A new dragon with an oversized jaw and devastating area-of-effect attacks.

Toad-like Entity: A mysterious boss with glowing eyes and status-inflicting abilities.

2. Classes: Hero-Based System Replaces Custom Builds
Nightreign shifts away from Elden Ring’s open character creation, opting instead for eight predefined Heroes, each with specialized skills and hidden attributes.

Network Test Heroes
Wilder: A high-durability tank ideal for frontline combat.

Guardian: Defensive, shield-bearing character focused on survivability.

Recluse: Magic-based hero favoring long-range spellcasting.

Duchess: A glass-cannon class with massive burst potential but low defenses.

Leaked & Upcoming Heroes
Spirit Summoner: Can control up to three Spirit Summons simultaneously, offering unmatched battlefield utility.

Hunter: Likely excels at bow usage, traps, and mobility.

Ram-Horn Warrior: A massive axe-wielding bruiser with exceptional melee power.

Ninja-like Hero: Specializes in counterattacks, likely high Dexterity-based.

Interestingly, multiple players can pick the same hero during co-op play, removing restrictions often seen in hero-based games.

3. Combat Mechanics: Hidden Scaling and Perfect Timing
Nightreign introduces subtle but impactful changes to Elden Ring’s combat system.

Weapon Scaling & Hidden Stats
Each hero has hidden Strength, Dexterity, Intelligence, and Faith stats, which affect weapon efficiency. Although all heroes can wield any weapon, some perform better with specific types, adding a layer of experimentation.

Status Effects & Weapon Drops
Bleed and Frostbite are still incredibly effective, with quicker buildup rates.

Defeating specific bosses yields elemental weapons:

Zamor Heroes: Drop frost-infused gear.

Sanguine Nobles: Provide blood-infused loot.

Dragons: Drop high-quality purple and orange weapons.

Perfect Block & Dodge Mechanics
A new “Perfect Block” and “Perfect Dodge” system rewards well-timed defense, possibly offering stagger or invincibility bonuses. While not fully detailed, this mechanic may redefine high-skill PvE and PvP encounters.

4. Zones & Map Changes: Procedural Elements Introduced
The network test offered a single version of Limgrave, but the final game will feature procedural map elements that shift with each run.

Dynamic World Events
Volcanoes: Can erupt and alter terrain in unpredictable areas.

Scarlet Rot Swamps: Appear randomly and are less deadly than Elden Ring’s original version.

Exploration Changes
Evergaols: Now offer no loot, reducing their importance.

Caves: Mostly serve traversal functions, with minimal rewards.

5. Multiplayer & Co-Op Features
Nightreign will support crossplay, uniting players across platforms. Some core Elden Ring features, like player messages, are missing, replaced by loot-dropping red corpses of fallen allies.

A new ping system allows players to coordinate more effectively, proving essential during three-player co-op runs. Players who use communication tools tend to outperform silent groups significantly.

6. Replayability & Roguelike Design
Nightreign integrates roguelike elements, increasing replay value.

RNG Affects Each Run
Enemy placements, loot drops, and environmental hazards vary between runs. While good players can push through bad RNG, a lucky sequence of drops can make a run dramatically easier.

Solo vs. Co-op Balance
Although Nightreign can be played solo, the experience is clearly optimized for three-player teams. Solo players benefit from full loot drops but must handle overwhelming multi-enemy encounters alone.

Post-Launch DLC Plans Already in Motion
Surprisingly, Bandai Namco has already announced a DLC for Nightreign, listed in the Deluxe and Collector’s Editions. This second expansion will feature new bosses, areas, and additional heroes, although FromSoftware has confirmed that development will only begin after Nightreign launches.

Expected release for the DLC is late 2025, and its direction will likely be shaped by player feedback, balance discussions, and community engagement.

Nightreign Release Date & Final Thoughts
The release date for Elden Ring: Nightreign is May 30, 2025, as revealed at The Game Awards 2024 following a trademark registration in October 2024.

With its shift toward hero-based co-op gameplay, roguelike progression, and best place to buy elden ring items returning legacy bosses, Nightreign is shaping up to be one of FromSoftware’s most experimental expansions to date. While the leaks have spoiled some surprises, the full scope of Nightreign remains to be seen—and fans are counting down the days until they can finally experience the chaos firsthand.