How to Resolve Matchmaking Issues Affecting Elden Ring: Nightreign

The multiplayer roguelite game, Elden Ring: Nightreign, recently launched by FromSoftware, has made an impressive debut, swiftly securing its position as the second most-played title on Steam shortly after its release.

However, this surge in popularity has been accompanied by challenges for PlayStation players, particularly concerning matchmaking failures. In this article, we will delve into these issues and provide effective solutions so you can rejoin your comrades in the game.

1. Resolving Matchmaking Issues in Elden Ring: Nightreign

How to fix Matchmaking Issues in Elden Ring: Nightreign — How to fix matchmaking issues in Elden Ring: Nightreign | Source: FromSoftware

Upon its launch, Elden Ring: Nightreign experienced nearly 300, 000 concurrent players on Steam in just its first hour. Nevertheless, players on PS4 and PS5 have reported persistent matchmaking issues, often encountering endless queues.

Designed for cooperative play with up to three players, the game allows solo experiences, but many critics note that going solo lacks balance and enjoyment without a full team. As a result, players are resorting to matchmaking, only to face long wait times and frequent connectivity failures.

These problems may originate from the grouping methodology, which leaves limited options for those playing solo or in pairs. Fortunately, FromSoftware has recognized this issue and provided a workaround:

From their support account on Twitter, they advise players facing matchmaking issues to pause the matchmaking process, and then restart it by selecting “Deploy again.” This method has proven helpful for resetting the search process.

i. Common Matchmaking Problems

Stuck at “1/3 Players”: Numerous users are being held up by the matchmaking screen freezing at “1/3 players, ” causing frustration as no progress is made. Cancelling this generally results in a “Matchmaking failed” notification.
Strict NAT Type Restrictions: Players with a NAT Type 3 configuration may experience significant connectivity challenges. Given that FromSoftware games typically utilize peer-to-peer connections, a restrictive NAT can severely hinder matchmaking.
Password Matchmaking Not Functional: Users attempting to engage in password-protected matchmaking often discover that it is unreliable, preventing friends from joining each other’s lobbies.

ii. Potential Fixes and Workarounds

Possible Fixes and Workarounds | Source: FromSoftware

Verify Your NAT Type: Ensure you are not using NAT Type 3. Enabling UPnP in your router settings, or contacting your internet service provider (ISP) to switch to NAT Type 2, can enhance compatibility for online gaming.
Postpone Password Matchmaking: Until the system undergoes improvements, consider avoiding the password matchmaking option as it may create more complications.
Exercise Patience: Some users have reported that they successfully connect eventually after prolonged waiting, even if it initially appears to be stuck.
Stay Informed on Official Updates: FromSoftware may be implementing solutions behind the scenes. Regularly monitor official channels or Steam announcements for any patches or updates.

If you continue to encounter issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to FromSoftware support for further assistance.

While you can still opt for solo gameplay, keep in mind that Nightreign currently lacks crossplay functionality, meaning that PS players affected by these bugs represent a substantial segment of the overall player base.

FromSoftware has also faced feedback regarding the absence of a two-player mode, which may have deterred solo participants from even trying the game. In the meantime, the matchmaking system stands as strained—not broken but clearly in need of refinement.

2. Overview of Elden Ring Nightreign

Developed by FromSoftware and published by BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment, Elden Ring: Nightreign is an exciting standalone survival experience set in the Elden Ring universe. This title aims to provide players with a fresh gaming journey featuring hallmark elements of the Elden Ring, along with the unique addition of a three-person cooperative mode, enabling a more decisive strategy against the formidable foes lurking in shadows.

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