Elden Ring Nightreign Procedurally Generated Maps Guarantee No Two Playthroughs Are the Same

Elden Ring Nightreign is set to revolutionize the gaming experience with its innovative procedurally generated terrains, including dynamic elements like volcanoes and poison swamps. Dive into the details of this exciting game mechanic!

Elden Ring Nightreign Will Have Procedurally Generated Terrains

Includes Volcanoes, Poison Swamps, and Forests

In an exclusive interview featured in PC Gamer’s Magazine Issue 405 and reported by Games Radar on February 10, 2025, Elden Ring Nightreign's director, Junya Ishizaki, unveiled that the game's map will feature procedurally generated terrains such as volcanoes, forests, and swamps. This feature aligns perfectly with the challenging nature of Soulslike games, where environmental hazards like poison swamps compel players to adapt their strategies while navigating the map and confronting enemies.

Ishizaki elaborated on the concept, stating, "We're aiming for the map to act as a giant dungeon, allowing players to explore and traverse it differently with each playthrough." For example, forests can offer both cover and concealment for players and enemies alike, necessitating a cautious approach. The choice of terrain can significantly impact strategy, as Ishizaki noted, "Once you've made that choice, maybe you have an idea of how you want to strategize against that boss, and this might change how you approach the map. We wanted to offer players that agency, to decide 'I need to go after a poison weapon this time to face this boss.'"

Familiar terrains from previous titles may also make a comeback, including the notorious Swamp of Aeonia and Lake of Rot, which slow players down and inflict the Rot debuff. Additionally, these dynamically generated landscapes could introduce specific enemies such as Giant Lobsters or Crabs, Runebears, Magma Wyrms, or other formidable foes from the Souls series.

Elden Ring Nightreign Playtest Invites Rolling Out Now

The opportunity to explore the ever-changing landscapes of Elden Ring Nightreign is just around the corner, with playtest invites currently being distributed. Fans who signed up during The Game Awards 2024 can now test the game on Xbox Series X|S and PS5 from February 14 to 16, 2025.

Successful applicants will have access to Nightreign during the following times:

• February 14: 3:00 to 6:00 am (PT)
• February 14: 7:00 to 10:00 pm (PT)
• February 15: 11:00 am to 2:00 pm (PT)
• February 16: 3:00 to 6:00 am (PT)
• February 16: 7:00 to 10:00 pm (PT)

The playtest aims to evaluate Nightreign's server performance, identify potential issues in online multiplayer, and fine-tune game balance. Players should note that the game is still in development, which means access to some areas, enemies, and features may be limited during the playtest.