FromSoftware confirms that there is an issue with online play on Steam for Dark Souls 3, meaning it has had to once again remove online functionality from the game. The Dark Souls 3 server issues began back in January, when it was reported that a dangerous exploit had been discovered and needed to be fixed. Since then, fans grew concerned as the multiplayer tag disappeared from Dark Souls 3 on Steam, leading some to think that the feature had been removed entirely.However, FromSoftware gave fans updates on its work to restore online play to Dark Souls 3. Back in May, when players asked when they could join their friends in co-op play or fight fellow fans in PvP, FromSoftware stated that the fix was still in development. Later on in July, it finally seemed like Dark Souls 3's online features had been restored, as it was announced via the game's official Twitter page that a new update had fixed the problems with its servers.However, now the servers for Dark Souls 3 are down once again, as outlined on the game's official Twitter page. FromSoftware has informed players that there is a confirmed issue with Dark Souls 3's Steam servers. It has not yet been confirmed what this problem is or if it is related to the exploit discovered back in January, but the tweet states that FromSoftware is investigating the problem and will inform fans on the matter as soon as more details are available.
If the issue is anything like the previous problems discovered with Dark Souls 3's online features, it may be a while before players can use them again on PC. While FromSoftware's action RPGs are often designed as single-player experiences, the online features of the games can add some interesting elements to gameplay. In Dark Souls' invasions and duels, for example, another challenge can be added to the difficult combat of the game, as players battle each other with the different builds they've crafted.
Currently, a lot of fans of FromSoftware's titles are still playing Elden Ring, which hasn't had any problems with multiplayer functionality. Elden Ring's multiplayer works similarly to that of Dark Souls, with players being able to enter another's world either to help or hinder their progress. However, for those that want a break from invading a player's world in the Lands Between, it seems they might be waiting a while before they can return to Dark Souls 3's multiplayer.
Dark Souls 3 is available now on PC, PS4, and Xbox One.