Fix PS5 Matchmaking Bug in Elden Ring Nightreign

Elden Ring Nightreign, the latest multiplayer-focused expansion from FromSoftware, has captivated players with its intense co-op expeditions and challenging realms. However, many PS5 and PS4 users have encountered a frustrating endless matchmaking loop that prevents joining sessions. FromSoftware has promptly addressed this with a straightforward solution: pause the matchmaking process and select deploy again. This article dives deep into the issue, official fixes, player-tested workarounds, and preventive measures to ensure smooth online play.

Understanding the Matchmaking Glitch in Nightreign

The matchmaking error typically manifests as a perpetual loading screen or status like “Matchmaking 1/3” that never progresses, unique to PlayStation platforms. Players report getting stuck after initiating multiplayer expeditions from Roundtable Hold, unable to connect despite stable internet. This bug disrupts the core co-op experience, where teams of three tackle Nightlord bosses and Shifting Earth events.

Root causes include server overload during peak hours, misconfigured network settings, active in-game events limiting player pools, or temporary session locks. Unlike broader server outages, this affects individual queues, making it resolvable on the user end in most cases.

FromSoftware’s Official Quick Fix

In a direct response via their Japanese Twitter support account on May 29, 2025, FromSoftware advised: “If you are having difficulty matching, please pause the matchmaking process and select to deploy again.” This method interrupts the stuck queue and refreshes the connection without restarting the entire game.

Step-by-Step Guide:

• Launch Elden Ring Nightreign and navigate to Roundtable Hold.
• Select Commence Expedition and initiate matchmaking.
• When the endless loop begins, pause or cancel the process via the menu.
• Immediately choose “Deploy” or restart the expedition option.
• Wait 10-30 seconds for a new queue to form successfully.

This has resolved the issue for countless players, especially on PS5, by clearing cached server data.

Essential Network and Settings Adjustments

Beyond the official tip, verifying in-game and console settings is crucial. Many errors stem from accidental single-player modes or restricted matchmaking options.

To apply: Enter the Network tab, toggle options, then fully restart the game and console. This combo fixes 70-80% of persistent issues per community reports.

Advanced Troubleshooting for Stubborn Errors

If basic steps fail, escalate with these targeted solutions.

Clear Session Passwords and Limits

Custom passwords or player limits shrink available matches. In Matchmaking Settings, remove any password and set to open sessions. For friends, use a simple 4-digit code and ensure all have Cross-Region enabled.

Handle Shifting Earth Events

These dynamic events restrict matchmaking to players in the same event state, slashing pool sizes. Rest at a Roundtable Hold bed to cycle events, then retry.

Exit Restricted Areas

Avoid matchmaking from Realm of Remembrance, where cross-character connections are blocked. Exit to main hub first.

Full System Resets

• Quit to main menu and relaunch to force server re-login.
• Power cycle PS5: Hold power button for 10 seconds, unplug for 1 minute.
• Rebuild PS5 database via Safe Mode (hold power on boot).
• Test wired Ethernet over Wi-Fi for stability.

Playing Solo as a Temporary Workaround

Nightreign shines in co-op, but solo mode offers full access minus balance tweaks. From Roundtable Hold:

1. Commence Expedition > Matchmaking Settings.
2. Set Expedition Type to Single Player.
3. Deploy into scaled-down challenges.

This bypasses queues entirely, ideal for story progression or farming while awaiting patches.

Server Status and Peak Time Strategies

Monitor unofficial trackers like DownDetector for Nightreign outages. Play during off-peak (e.g., weekdays 10 AM-2 PM UTC) to avoid queues. FromSoftware rarely announces maintenance, but post-launch surges strain Japanese-hosted servers.

Preventing Future Matchmaking Woes

Pro tips for longevity:

• Update game and PS5 firmware promptly.
• Use QoS settings on routers to prioritize gaming traffic.
• Join Discord communities for real-time session invites.
• Enable auto-updates for hotfixes.

FromSoftware’s proactive tweet shows commitment to player experience, with more patches likely incoming.

Community Insights and Common Pitfalls

Forums buzz with successes: 90% resolve via pause/deploy or network toggles. Pitfalls include NAT Type 3 (router fix needed) and event mismatches. Videos confirm settings paths visually.

FAQ: Elden Ring Nightreign Matchmaking

Q: Why is matchmaking stuck on PS5 only?
A: Likely PlayStation-specific server handshakes; FromSoftware’s pause fix targets this.

Q: Does restarting the console always work?
A: Often, but combine with settings checks for best results.

Q: Can I matchmake during Shifting Earth?
A: Yes, but only with others in the same event—rest to reset.

Q: Is solo play viable long-term?
A: For casual runs, yes; bosses scale down but retain challenge.

Q: When will a permanent patch drop?
A: No ETA, but FromSoftware iterates quickly post-launch.

Conclusion: Back to the Hunt

With FromSoftware’s simple pause-and-deploy trick plus these tweaks, most PS5 players reclaim multiplayer glory in minutes. Nightreign’s co-op depths await—equip your Tarnished and dive in.