The wait for a hands-on experience with the highly anticipated co-op expansion to the Elden Ring saga is nearly over, but with a significant caveat. FromSoftware and Bandai Namco have announced that registrations for the first Elden Ring Nightreign network test are opening imminently. This limited-time beta offers a coveted first look at this "co-op Soulsborne experience" set in The Lands Between, designed primarily for three-player parties. However, eager Tarnished should temper their expectations, as this initial test comes with platform restrictions that will leave a substantial portion of the fanbase watching from the sidelines. Isn't it always the way with these highly sought-after tests?

The process for getting a chance to participate is straightforward, but competition is expected to be fierce. Starting on the announced date, prospective testers must visit the official Elden Ring Nightreign network test website to register. During registration, you must select your preferred platform. It's a standard procedure, but here's the crucial first catch: the dropdown menu won't list all the consoles and PC. This initial test is exclusively for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S players. Given that the full game is also scheduled for release on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC, this beta is effectively available on less than half of the title's target platforms. Why would FromSoftware limit the test in such a way? It likely relates to focusing their technical resources on the current-generation console infrastructure for this initial stress test.

After registering, the waiting game begins. Not everyone who signs up will get in, as these tests typically have a limited number of spots. Neither FromSoftware nor Bandai Namco has revealed the exact capacity, and they may never do so. Those fortunate enough to be selected will receive a confirmation email by February 2025 at the latest. That's when the test itself is currently scheduled to take place, with concrete dates promised in the coming weeks. For those who make the cut, here’s what the roadmap looks like:

1. Visit the official website from the registration start date.

2. Register for the test, indicating your PS5 or Xbox Series X/S as your platform.

3. Wait patiently for a confirmation email (expected by February 2025).

4. Participate in the network test during its February window.

Once in the test, players will encounter the second major design philosophy of Nightreign. The game is built for cooperative play in parties of three. FromSoftware has made a deliberate decision not to balance the experience for duos, meaning your options are to brave The Lands Between alone or with two companions. This "solo or trio" design is a core pillar of the experience. Furthermore, the developers have confirmed the game will not support cross-platform multiplayer. This means the network test will strictly be a console-specific affair; PS5 players will only adventure with other PS5 players, and likewise for Xbox. This lack of cross-play extends to the full release, segmenting the community by platform ecosystem.

As with most network tests of this nature, players should manage their expectations regarding progress. It is highly unlikely—though not yet officially confirmed—that any character progression, item acquisition, or story advancement made during the beta will carry over to the full game upon its planned 2025 release. The primary purpose of this test is server stress and gameplay feedback, not a head start. Will there be more tests in the future? It's a definite possibility, especially to address the other platforms, but FromSoftware has not yet outlined any plans beyond this initial February 2025 test.

So, what does this all mean for the average fan? For PS5 and Xbox Series X/S owners, it's time to be vigilant and ready to register the moment sign-ups open. For everyone else—PC gamers and last-gen console users—this first test will be an exercise in patience. They'll have to rely on footage and impressions from those who gained access. The limitations, while disappointing for many, are not uncommon in the industry. Focusing on the two most similar, current-generation platforms simplifies the data collection process for developers. It allows them to stress-test their networking code and server infrastructure under controlled conditions before expanding to the more varied architectures of PC and older consoles. The question remains: will this focused approach lead to a smoother launch for all platforms when Elden Ring Nightreign finally releases? Only time, and perhaps subsequent network tests, will tell.

In summary, the road to Elden Ring Nightreign begins with a selective and exclusive beta test. The path involves platform restrictions, a strict trio-based co-op system, and isolated player pools. Yet, for those who secure a spot, it represents the first chance to experience a new kind of collective struggle within the hauntingly beautiful and deadly world that captivated millions. The anticipation continues to build, one limited registration at a time.