Epirus Raises $250 Million for Anti-Drone Systems, Valued at Over $1 Billion
California-based Epirus secures $250 million Series D funding for its anti-drone systems, solidifying its unicorn status in the defense tech industry

Sophia Steele
In a recent interview with Nintendo, FromSoftware's renowned game director Hidetaka Miyazaki sought to alleviate concerns that the studio is shifting its focus away from single-player games. With the announcement of two upcoming multiplayer titles, Elden Ring Nightreign and The Duskbloods, fans of the Dark Souls series and Elden Ring were worried that the studio's priorities had changed.
Miyazaki reassured fans that FromSoftware remains committed to developing single-player focused games, citing the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 version of Elden Ring as an example. He emphasized that the studio's exploration of multiplayer formats does not signal a departure from their traditional style, which has garnered a devoted following.
The Duskbloods, a Switch 2 exclusive, has generated significant interest due to its multiplayer format, which supports up to eight players in a PvPvE setup. Players can choose from over a dozen vampiric characters, known as "Bloodsworn," each with unique abilities and customization options. The game's objectives will vary across different maps, with a mix of competitive and cooperative elements.
Notably, Miyazaki mentioned that the game's design aims to cater to players who may not typically enjoy PvP gameplay, offering non-combat objectives and "victory points" to earn. This approach may help to appeal to FromSoftware's traditional single-player fanbase, who may be hesitant to venture into multiplayer territory.
The Duskbloods also promises to deliver a rich narrative experience, with connections to other Souls titles. The game's hub world will feature an NPC character, an "elderly gentleman" who shares a similar role with the fire keepers from the Dark Souls series. This attention to lore and world-building is a hallmark of FromSoftware's single-player games, and its inclusion in The Duskbloods may help to alleviate concerns about the studio's priorities.
With Elden Ring Nightreign set to launch on May 30th, and The Duskbloods scheduled for release in 2026, FromSoftware is poised to explore new directions while remaining true to their roots. Miyazaki's reassurances should come as a relief to fans of the studio's single-player games, who can look forward to continued support for their preferred format.
In the context of the gaming industry, FromSoftware's commitment to single-player games is significant. As the market continues to shift towards online multiplayer experiences, the studio's dedication to crafting immersive, story-driven titles is a testament to the enduring appeal of solo gameplay.
As the gaming landscape evolves, FromSoftware's willingness to experiment with new formats while remaining true to their core values is a promising sign for fans of the studio and the gaming industry as a whole.
California-based Epirus secures $250 million Series D funding for its anti-drone systems, solidifying its unicorn status in the defense tech industry
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