Difference between Elden Ring Nightreign and original Elden Ring. See what's new, updated features, gameplay changes, base game similarities, DLC comparison and expansions.
Table of Contents
Differences from Original
- Game Focused on Co-Op Multiplayer
└ Solo play is also possible - Has Roguelike RPG System
- Gameplay sessions are relatively short
- Set in the New Limveld Map
- The stories are not connected
- Select from 8 Playable Characters
- Bosses from past titles appear
The differences between Nightreign and the main game include its focus on cooperative gameplay, roguelike elements, and protagonist selection system.
Game Focused on Co-Op Multiplayer

While the main Elden Ring game had cooperative play, Nightreign is designed with multiplayer as a fundamental part of the gameplay. Join forces with friends or match with random players to take down challenging bosses together.
Multiplayer GuideSolo Play is Also Possible
If you are hesitant about multiplayer, it is also possible to play solo. During solo play, enemy stats are adjusted, but the number of enemies and their behavior patterns remain the same, so you can experience a more challenging battle than in multiplayer.
Can You Play Solo?No PvP Elements
There are no PvP elements like invasions that were in the main game. Your attacks won't hit allies, so if you prefer PvP, we recommend playing the original Elden Ring game.
Has Roguelike RPG System
*Roguelike: A game genre where enemy placements and obtainable items change with each playthrough.

Unlike the main game, Nightreign’s system features strong roguelike elements. While the map layout remains the same, enemy placements, base locations, and mid-boss appearances change each time. The thrill of defeating powerful bosses in ever-changing situations and the challenge of strategizing make for a unique experience not often encountered in the main game.
Gameplay Sessions Are Relatively Short

In Elden Ring Nightreign, the exploration phase features a collapsing hazard zone that gradually closes in from the outer edges of the map and a boss appears once it closes. This system acts as a built-in time limit, with most sessions lasting around an hour. The game is built for replayability as each playthrough unfolds differently, with randomized events, branching paths, and dynamic encounters that respond to your actions.
Difficult to Pause Mid-Game
In the main Elden Ring game, you could save and pause the game even while exploring a dungeon. However, since Nightreign progresses in real-time, it is difficult to pause the game while playing.
Set in the New Limveld Map

The main exploration area in Nightreign is a brand-new region called Limveld. While its atmosphere may remind players of Limgrave from the base game, its landscape and architecture are completely original.
How to Read the MapThe Stories Are Not Connected

Although Nightreign follows the world view of Elden Ring, it is set in a parallel world, so there is no substantial connection to the main story. In an official interview, it was stated that 'hidden elements or secret scenarios from the main game will not be revealed in Nightreign', so it should be considered a separate entity. However, there are many 'what if' scenarios not present in the main game, and those who have played the main game may find points for speculation.
Select from 8 Playable Characters

↑ The Revenant will be added to the characters shown above, bringing the total to eight.
In the main game, players could freely create and customize their own Tarnished character. In Nightreign, however, you’ll you will choose to play as one of 8 distinct characters. Each has special moves like Character Skills and Ultimate Arts, and their proficient weapons may have unique motions, so find a character that suits your combat style.
All Playable CharactersBosses from Past Titles Appear

In Nightreign, bosses from 'Dark Souls 1, 2, 3' also make guest appearances. You can fight these nostalgic bosses with updated motions and graphics, making it an irresistible feature for series fans.
Play as Iconic Characters from Past Titles

Nightreign features a skin system that lets you change your character's appearance to resemble select characters from previous titles. With fan favorites like Faraam and Solaire included, roleplaying as these iconic characters adds even more fun to the game.
Similarities
- Boss and enemies are mostly the same
- Weapons and Sorcery are also similar
The similarities between Nightreign and the main game include appearing bosses, enemies, and weapons.
Boss and Enemies are Mostly the Same

Most enemies and bosses (with some exceptions) appearing in Nightreign are those that existed in the main game. However, for bosses like the Fell Omen (Margit) and Draconic Tree Sentinel, new behavior patterns have been added, so although they are the same bosses as in the main game, you can have a different combat experience.
Weapons and Sorcery Are Also Similar

The weapons, magic, and other attack options available in Nightreign are the same as in the main game, except for the starting equipment of the protagonists. You can directly apply your knowledge from the main game. However, some mechanics are quite different. For example, Bows now have added critical damage, which changes how they are used.
Elden Ring Nightreign Related Guides

Beginner Tips
Early Game Guide | Missable Contents |
Best Characters for Beginners | Tutorial Guide |
How To Emote Guide | Is there Penalty for Leaving the Game? |
Besmirched Frame | - |
Character Enhancement
How to Level Up | Rune Farming |
Murk Guide | Smithing Stone Farming |
Roundtable Hold
Roundtable Hold Functions | How to Get Relics |
Sparring Grounds Functions | Small Jar Bazaar |
How to Get and Change Skins | Vessels |
Battle Guide
Site of Grace Functions | Sacred Flasks - How to Increase and Replenish |
How to Rescue Allies | How to Recover FP |
Augur (Maris) Guide | Day 1 and Day 2 Strategy |
Two-Hand Guide | Ultimate Arts List |
System
Controls Guide | Equipment Load and Carrying Capacity |
Multiplayer Guide | Can You Play Solo? |
Death Penalties | Is 2-Player Mode Possible? |
How to Play with Friends | Difficulty Settings |
Guides to Read Before Purchase
Pre-Order Bonuses | Edition Comparison |
Crossplay Support Explained | Storage Capacity & File Size |
Can You Play Solo? | DLC Guide |
Can You Customize Characters? | Nightreign Differences |