New previews for The Duskbloods have revealed six of the game’s 10 launch characters, and the early lineup is already an impressive collection of strange personalities.
The group shown so far includes Albert, Bloodhand Jan, Trang Lanh, Sniper Layla, a senator and Zork. Judging by the character reveal, FromSoftware appears to be embracing the eccentric side of its character design once again.
The Duskbloods’ image introduces Albert as a remarkably ordinary-looking vampire. Bloodhand Jan, meanwhile, appears to have arrived at a blood ritual in what could generously be described as pyjamas.
Trang Lanh is the standout for sheer cool factor, providing a useful contrast to the rest of the cast. Every group of ridiculous characters needs at least one composed figure to make the overall effect even funnier.
Sniper Layla looks as though they wandered out of Fallout. They are missing part of their head and seem determined to project an edgy image, but the overall impression is still more dorky than intimidating.
Then there is the revelation that this world has a senator. A setting with elected officials and an actual government is an unexpected detail for a game that otherwise looks committed to supernatural oddness.
And Zork? That is the entire thought. Zork?
FromSoftware knows how to make unforgettable weirdos
This kind of character design has a long history at FromSoftware. Elden Ring gave us giant jars packed with human remains, a turtle pope and the deeply unpleasant Dung Eater. Dark Souls 3 had Pickle Pee, while Patches has appeared as one of the studio’s most recognisable recurring troublemakers.
King’s Field IV is similarly populated by cursed or miserable characters, and Nightreign has even featured a woman licking a wall in the lobby. Big Hat Logan remains another memorable example of the studio’s ability to create characters who are bizarre, unsettling or both.
For readers who enjoy following unusual arcade and game-world design, the RETROCADE Arcade Blog is a useful place to explore more gaming stories. Those considering a home setup can also browse the Arcade Machine Buying Guide or compare available arcade cabinets.
A promising first look
With six of the 10 launch characters now visible, The Duskbloods already seems to have a cast built for memorable encounters and entertaining player reactions. The upcoming network test will provide an opportunity to try these six characters and see how their personalities translate into play.
On character design alone, the game is making a strong first impression. Albert, Bloodhand Jan, Trang Lanh, Sniper Layla, the senator and Zork look like exactly the sort of oddball lineup FromSoftware does best.
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