Overcoming Matchmaking Challenges in Elden Ring: Nightreign
Elden Ring: Nightreign, the latest multiplayer roguelite from FromSoftware, has rapidly gained popularity, becoming the second most-played game on Steam shortly after its release. Within the first hour alone, it attracted nearly 300,000 concurrent players, highlighting its immediate success. However, despite this early enthusiasm, PlayStation users are encountering persistent matchmaking issues, particularly endless queues that hinder multiplayer engagement.
Understanding the Multiplayer Experience in Nightreign
Designed primarily for three-player cooperative gameplay, Elden Ring: Nightreign offers a challenging yet rewarding experience when played with a full team. While solo play remains an option, critics have noted that the game’s balance and enjoyment significantly diminish without a complete squad. As a result, many players are eager to connect with others through matchmaking, but lengthy wait times and frequent failures are dampening their experience.
The root of these problems may lie in how players are grouped, with a possible shortage of solo players or duos available for matchmaking. Fortunately, FromSoftware has acknowledged these issues and provided some temporary solutions to help players get back into the action.
Official Troubleshooting Steps from FromSoftware
According to official support channels, players experiencing matchmaking difficulties should try restarting the process. Specifically, cancel the current matchmaking attempt and then select the “Deploy again” option to reset the search. This simple step can often resolve connection issues and facilitate smoother matchmaking sessions.
Common Matchmaking Obstacles and Their Causes
- Stuck at “Matching 1/3 Players”: Many players report being stuck in the matchmaking queue, where the game remains frozen at “matching 1/3 players” without progressing. Repeatedly canceling and retrying often results in a “Matchmaking failed” message.
- Restrictive NAT Settings: Players with NAT Type 3 often face connectivity hurdles. Since FromSoftware’s multiplayer relies heavily on peer-to-peer connections, a strict NAT setting can prevent successful matchmaking altogether.
- Password Matchmaking Failures: Some users have found that the password-based matchmaking feature does not function reliably, making it difficult for friends to join each other’s sessions.
Effective Workarounds and Practical Fixes
- Check and Adjust NAT Settings: If you’re on NAT Type 3, consider enabling UPnP on your router or contacting your internet service provider to switch to NAT Type 2, which is more compatible with online gaming.
- Avoid Password Matchmaking Temporarily: Until official patches are released, it’s advisable to refrain from using password-based matchmaking, as it may exacerbate connection issues.
- Patience is Key: Some players have reported that waiting a few minutes can eventually lead to successful matchmaking, even if the process appears stuck initially.
- Monitor Official Updates: Keep an eye on FromSoftware’s official channels and Steam announcements for upcoming patches and fixes that address these connectivity problems.
If persistent issues remain, submitting a support ticket to FromSoftware’s customer service is recommended. While solo gameplay remains viable, it’s important to note that Nightreign does not support crossplay, which can be a significant obstacle for players on different platforms, especially on PlayStation systems.
The absence of a two-player cooperative mode has drawn criticism, as it limits the multiplayer experience and may discourage solo players from engaging fully with the game. Currently, the matchmaking system is functional but clearly in need of refinement to enhance user experience.
About Elden Ring: Nightreign
Developed by FromSoftware and published by BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment, Elden Ring: Nightreign is an upcoming standalone survival game set within the expansive Elden Ring universe. It aims to deliver a fresh, intense gaming experience that retains the signature mechanics and atmospheric storytelling of the original game. The title emphasizes cooperative multiplayer, supporting three-player co-op, which allows players to band together to confront the dark forces lurking in the game’s treacherous world.
As the game continues to evolve, FromSoftware is actively working on addressing current connectivity issues, promising a more seamless multiplayer experience in future updates. For now, players are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and community forums for the latest news and troubleshooting tips.
