Digital Extremes, the creators of Warframe, unveiled exciting new details about their free-to-play looter shooter and their upcoming fantasy MMO, Soulframe, at TennoCon 2024. This article delves into the gameplay features and CEO Steve Sinclair's perspective on the live-service game model.
Warframe: 1999 – Arriving Winter 2024
Protoframes, Infestations, and a Boy Band Surprise
TennoCon 2024 showcased a gameplay demo for Warframe: 1999, a significant departure from the series' usual sci-fi setting. The expansion transports players to the Infestation-ravaged Höllvania, where they control Arthur Nightingale and his Protoframe, battling hordes of enemies before New Year's Eve.
The demo featured Arthur's Atomicycle, intense combat, and an unexpected encounter with a '90s-inspired boy band. The demo's soundtrack is now available on the Warframe YouTube channel.
Meet the Hex
The Hex, Arthur's six-member team, each possesses unique traits and roles. While only Arthur is playable in the demo, the expansion introduces a romance system, allowing players to connect with Hex members via "Kinematic Instant Message," potentially leading to a New Year's Eve kiss.
A Warframe Animated Short
Digital Extremes is collaborating with The Line animation studio (known for Gorillaz music videos) on an animated short set within Warframe: 1999's infested world, slated for release alongside the expansion.
Soulframe Gameplay Demo
An Open-World Fantasy MMO Experience
Digital Extremes' first Soulframe Devstream offered a live demo, revealing story and gameplay details. Players assume the role of an Envoy, tasked with cleansing the Ode curse from Alca. The Warsong Prologue serves as an introduction to the world and its slower, deliberate melee combat. The Nightfold, a personal Orbiter, allows interaction with NPCs, crafting, and even pet care.
Allies and Enemies Await
Players will encounter Ancestors, powerful spirits offering unique gameplay benefits (e.g., Verminia, the Rat Witch, assists with crafting). Enemies include Nimrod, a lightning-wielding giant, and the ominous Bromius.
Soulframe Release Timeline
Soulframe is currently in a closed alpha phase (Soulframe Preludes) with plans for broader access this Fall.
Digital Extremes CEO on the Premature Demise of Live Service Games
The Perils of Hasty Abandonment
In a VGC interview at TennoCon 2024, Digital Extremes CEO Steve Sinclair voiced concerns about large publishers prematurely abandoning live service games due to initial performance anxieties. He highlighted the significant investment and community building involved, suggesting that abandoning projects too quickly is detrimental.
Sinclair contrasted this with Warframe's decade-long success, emphasizing the importance of sustained support and community engagement. The cancellation of The Amazing Eternals five years prior serves as a cautionary tale, shaping their approach to Soulframe.
