FromSoftware sets the stage. Elden Ring Nightreign update 1.03, released on December 3, introduces numerous changes to the game system, with immediate effects on progression, equipment and multiplayer. This patch precedes the arrival of the highly anticipated DLC “The Forsaken Hollows” by 24 hours, scheduled for December 4, 2025.
Compatible on all platforms (PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series, Steam), this update goes well beyond simple technical preparation. It’s an in-depth overhaul of certain central mechanics, which should delight veterans and new players alike.
New options for Relics and Rites of Relics
One of the major additions of the patch concerns the “Rites of the Relics” menu. It is now possible to easily name, rearrange, and view relic presets for each character. These changes make it easier to manage builds, which are often complex at high level.
An improved display also shows equipped relics, their detailed effects, and even their impact in the results menus after a session. Another welcome new feature: events on different map layers can now be spotted visually, even from a vertical distance.
The patch also introduces new items to shops around the world, including firepots and additional weapons from Limveld merchants.
Revised balancing for more flexibility
Update 1.03 brings a rebalancing of several passive effects and relics. FromSoftware has expanded the trigger conditions for many bonuses and reviewed their effectiveness. We note in particular:
- Strengthened passive effects for two-handed or dual-wielding attacks
- Notable improvements to charge, jump or critical attacks
- An adjustment to the “low HP damage reduction” effect, now less powerful
Relics have also been overhauled, with increased offensive effects for basic attacks, critical hits and guard counters. However, certain bonuses are weakened to avoid abuse, such as that of the Blue Feathered Branch Sword Talismanic.
Improvements for cooperative play
The patch facilitates cooperation between players with different objectives. Now, expeditions can be launched even if a player does not have to face a specific target, making matchmaking much more flexible.
This collaborative approach is at the heart of the Nightreign experience. “When playing Elden Ring Nightreign as intended, it’s one of the best examples of three-player cooperative play,” IGN noted in its review of the game.
We will also note comfort improvements: HP gauge visible during standby power, display of the level of dead runes, and reinforced indicators on the compass or map.
An avalanche of bugs fixed
On the technical side, the list of fixes is long. The patch resolves problems with teleportation, display of visual or sound effects, disabled skills, relay between characters during cooperative sessions or even menus which did not display data correctly.
Among the most notable:
- Fixed healing effects not being applied when dodging
- Fixed bugs in Augurs areas or during expeditions
- Better handling of elemental residue and stun damage
- Repairs to rarity display or weapon attributes in menus
With this 1.03 update, FromSoftware puts Elden Ring Nightreign back in the spotlight, at a pivotal moment. Tomorrow, the Night Travelers will enter the “Hollows”… but as of today, the world of the Underworld has already changed.