The upcoming Elden Ring Nightreign represents an intriguing new chapter for FromSoftware, evolving the legacy of its predecessor while introducing a unique focus on multiplayer. Spearheaded by a new director, backed by renowned creator Hidetaka Miyazaki, fans are left wondering how closely this spin-off will connect to the main Elden Ring narrative. Speculation surrounding the timeline of Elden Ring Nightreign is rampant, particularly regarding its relation, or divergence, from the original game’s events. Among the theories that have emerged, one fringe concept has gained remarkable traction.
The reveal trailer for Elden Ring Nightreign introduced a variety of new adversaries, preset player characters, and a survival-oriented roguelike map known as Limveld. Notably, fans have observed familiar faces from the Dark Souls series, sparking debate on whether these references are part of a broader FromSoftware universe. Even if the story stands apart from the original game, there are subtle indications hinting at its timeline.
Concurrence with the Events of the Original Game
An Alternate Timeline Shaped by Shared Events
It has been proposed that Elden Ring Nightreign unfolds within an alternate timeline, which may explain its depiction of the Night Lord, a character seemingly unconnected to the original journey of the Tarnished. In a recent interview with IGN, Junya Ishizaki, the game’s director, elaborated on the narrative connections:
The story is completely separate and parallel to the world of Elden Ring’s. If you had to tie it in some way, we had the events of the shattering in the original game. After the events of the shattering, this is a completely separate branch of the Elden Ring story.
The term “shattering” could refer to either the physical shattering of the Elden Ring itself or the widespread conflict appropriately named the Shattering. Regardless, it is clear that Elden Ring Nightreign will share thematic and narrative traits with the main game.
The Multiverse Theory of FromSoftware: Is It Confirmed?
The Idea of Elden Ring as a Sequel to Dark Souls Gains Ground
The trailer for Elden Ring Nightreign features prominent nods to Dark Souls, strengthening the growing notion that FromSoftware may be constructing a cohesive universe encompassing all its prior titles. Notable enemies, such as the Centipede Demon and the Nameless King, as well as an NPC resembling the Firekeeper from Dark Souls III, appear to have crossed over, raising questions about their roles in this new context. This aligns with comments made by George R. R. Martin in 2021, suggesting that he views Elden Ring as a sequel to Dark Souls, a notion previously regarded with skepticism.
Understanding the Bosses Within the Nightreign Framework
While the appearances of these beloved Dark Souls bosses ignites excitement, it’s vital to consider practical aspects behind this creative decision. Ishizaki clarified that George R. R. Martin’s narrative involvement is not present in Elden Ring Nightreign, indicating that asset reuse might serve gameplay efficiency more than deep narrative connections. Nevertheless, a narrative framework is still feasible, allowing these familiar foes to play into the overarching story of this intriguing spin-off.
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