Warframe: 1999 and Soulframe Aim to Show How Live Service Games Should Be Done
Digital Extremes, the creators of Warframe, unveiled exciting new content for their free-to-play title and their upcoming fantasy MMO, Soulframe, at TennoCon 2024. This article details the key reveals, including 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' established sci-fi setting. The expansion transports players to Höllvania, a city overrun by the early stages of the Infestation. Players control Arthur Nightingale, leader of the Hex, wielding a Protoframe – a precursor to the Warframes in the main game – in a race against time to find Dr. Entrati before New Year's Eve.
The demo featured Arthur using the Atomicycle, intense combat against proto-infested enemies, and an unexpected encounter with a 1990s-themed boy band. The demo's music is now available to stream on the Warframe YouTube channel.
Meet the Hex
The Hex, Arthur's team, comprises six unique characters. While only Arthur is playable in the demo, the expansion introduces a romance system, allowing players to build relationships with Hex members via "Kinematic Instant Message," potentially leading to a New Year's Eve kiss.
Warframe Anime Collaboration
Digital Extremes is collaborating with The Line animation studio (known for Gorillaz music videos) on an animated short film set in the infested world of Warframe: 1999. Further details are yet to be revealed, but the short is slated for release alongside the expansion.
Soulframe Gameplay Demo
An Open-World Fantasy MMO Experience
Digital Extremes debuted a Soulframe Devstream, offering a live gameplay demo and new story details. Players assume the role of an Envoy, tasked with cleansing Alca from the Ode curse. The Warsong Prologue serves as an introduction to the game's world.Unlike Warframe's fast-paced action, Soulframe features slower, deliberate melee combat. Players utilize the Nightfold, a personal Orbiter, to interact with NPCs, craft items, and interact with their wolf companion.
Allies and Enemies Await
Players will encounter Ancestors, spirits offering unique abilities. Verminia, the Rat Witch, assists with crafting and cosmetic upgrades. Enemies include Nimrod, a powerful ranged attacker, and the ominous Bromius, teased at the demo's conclusion.
Soulframe Release
Soulframe is currently in a closed alpha phase (Soulframe Preludes) with plans for wider access this fall.
Digital Extremes CEO on the Premature End of Live Service Games
The Perils of Hasty Abandonment
In a VGC interview at TennoCon 2024, Digital Extremes CEO Steve Sinclair voiced concerns about major publishers prematurely abandoning live-service games following initial struggles. He highlighted the significant investment and community building involved, suggesting that fear of declining player numbers and high operating costs often lead to premature shutdowns.
Sinclair contrasted this with Warframe's long-term success, emphasizing the importance of sustained support and community engagement. The cancellation of their previous title, The Amazing Eternals, serves as a cautionary tale, motivating their commitment to Soulframe's long-term viability.
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