Nightreign in Elden Ring stands out due to its fascinatingly rigid class structure, which contrasts sharply with FromSoftware’s typical approach in titles like Dark Souls.
In those games, the starting class is often a flexible choice, giving players room to evolve their characters as they see fit. Nightreign, however, follows a much more defined path.
While upgrades and collectible items offer some leeway in shaping an archetype’s path during a playthrough, the system is still far more restrictive than those found in a few different FromSoft RPGs.
As a valid instance, the Recluse (Nightreign’s sorcerer equivalent) is unable to wield any melee weapons, while the Guardian, a tank class, has no access to magic.
These archetypes largely follow the familiar patterns of Elden Ring’s spellcaster, rogue, and ranger classes, or seem inspired by Bloodborne and Sekiro’s gameplay, as evidenced by the Duchess and Executor. However, a new archetype recently revealed in Nightreign challenges this established trend.
Elden Ring: Nightreign to Include Iconic Dark Souls Gear
Elden Ring Nightreign: Why the Revenant Archetype Breaks the Mold
Revealed in Nightreign’s recent trailer and rumored to be called Revenant, this harp-bearing, doll-like character appears significantly different, primarily relying on summoning various Elden Ring Spirit Ashes for assistance in combat.
Through their harp, the Revenant provides support to their team without ever joining the conflict directly, leaving the combat to the summoned spirits. With only a harp at their disposal, whether imbued with magic or not, it’s no wonder the Revenant stays back from the action.
The Revenant basically offers an intriguing concept for a playable character, one that contrasts with the fundamental gameplay mechanics of traditional FromSoftware titles. Summons, though a frequent element in FromSoft RPGs, especially with Spirit Ashes in Elden Ring are rarely an offensive tool.
Elden Ring Nightreign’s Distinctiveness Is Defined by the Revenant’s Experimental Mechanics
If the Revenant is a class centered solely around summons, it would offer a truly innovative shift in the way Elden Ring is played. Prior to this revelation, Ironeye was arguably the standout archetype in Nightreign.
Thanks to the rarity of successful ranged-only builds in Elden Ring and Dark Souls. But the Revenant goes even further, stepping beyond the boundaries of conventional Soulslike combat.
What’s particularly interesting is that the Revenant seems to be built around one of Elden Ring’s most controversial gameplay features. Many purists argue that Spirit Ashes detract from the game’s core experience, feeling that they break the traditional gameplay loop.
It looks quite interesting to observe how critics view Spirit Ashes in the cooperative setting of Elden Ring Nightreign. The spin-off revolves around multiple heroes collaborating, which is a sharp contrast to the solitary nature of the base game and may provide a new context for the use of Spirit Ash summons.
Elden Ring Nightreign
| Release Date | May 30, 2025 |
| Steam Deck Compatibility | Unknown |
| Number of Players |
1-3
Online Co-Op
|
| Multiplayer | Online Co-Op |
|
Bandai Namco Entertainment, From Software |
|
From Software |
Also Read: Elden Ring Nightreign Could Be the One to Awaken Your Inner Loot Addict