Digital Extremes, the developers behind the acclaimed free-to-play looter shooter Warframe, have unveiled exciting new content at TennoCon 2024. Fans can look forward to two major projects: the Warframe 1999 expansion and the upcoming fantasy MMO, Soulframe. Let's delve into what's new and what CEO Steve Sinclair has to say about the future of live-service games.
Warframe: 1999 Coming in Winter 2024
Protoframes, Infestations, and Boy Bands
Warframe enthusiasts got their first look at Warframe 1999 during TennoCon 2024. This expansion takes a bold step away from the traditional sci-fi setting, transporting players to Höllvania—a city in the throes of an early Infestation. Players will step into the shoes of Arthur Nightingale, the leader of the Hex, equipped with a Protoframe, a precursor to the iconic Warframes. The mission? Race against time to find Dr. Entrati before the New Year’s Eve deadline.
The gameplay demo featured Arthur navigating the city on the Atomicycle, engaging in fierce battles against proto-infested enemies, and even encountering a '90s boy band. Fans of the demo's soundtrack can now stream the full track on the Warframe YouTube channel. For those less musically inclined, you can challenge an infested version of the boy band when the expansion launches across all platforms in winter 2024.
Get to Know the Hex
The Hex, a team of six unique characters, each brings something different to the table. While you can only play as Arthur Nightingale in the demo, Warframe: 1999 introduces a novel romance system. Set against the nostalgic backdrop of CRT monitors and dial-up internet, players can use "Kinematic Instant Message" to foster relationships with Hex members, unlocking deeper conversations and the possibility of a New Year’s Eve kiss.
Warframe Anime
In collaboration with The Line, the animation studio behind Gorillaz's music videos, Digital Extremes is set to release an animated short set in the world of Warframe 1999. While details are scarce, fans can expect this short to accompany the expansion's launch.
Soulframe Gameplay Demo
An Open-World Fantasy MMO
After much anticipation, Digital Extremes showcased the first Soulframe Devstream, offering a live demo filled with new story and gameplay elements. In Soulframe, players assume the role of an Envoy tasked with cleansing the Ode curse from the land of Alca. The Warsong Prologue introduced players to this immersive world.Unlike the fast-paced action of Warframe, Soulframe focuses on slower, more deliberate melee combat. Players will have access to a personal Nightfold, a pocket Orbiter where they can interact with NPCs, craft gear, and bond with their giant wolf mount.
Allies and Enemies
Throughout your journey, you'll encounter Ancestors—spirits of powerful beings that offer unique gameplay features. For example, Verminia, the Rat Witch, assists in crafting consumables and unlocking cosmetic upgrades. Players will also face formidable foes like Nimrod, who can unleash lightning attacks, and Bromius, an ominous beast hinted at in the demo's conclusion.
Soulframe Release Date
Currently, Soulframe is in an invite-only closed alpha phase known as Soulframe Preludes. However, the developers plan to expand access to a broader audience this Fall.
Digital Extremes CEO Comments on Short-Lived Live Service Games
Are Big Publishers Giving Up on Live Service Games Too Quickly?
In an interview with VGC at TennoCon 2024, Steve Sinclair, CEO of Digital Extremes, voiced his concerns about the trend of large companies abandoning live service games shortly after launch due to initial struggles. These games, designed for continuous updates and player engagement, often face premature shutdowns when player numbers dip.
"Isn’t that a shame," Sinclair remarked. "You put so many years of your life into iterating on those systems or building technology or building the start of a community, and because the operating costs are high, you get terrified when you see the numbers drop and you leave."
This sentiment is echoed by the fates of games like Anthem, SYNCED, and Crossfire X, which were shut down within a year or two of their launch. In contrast, Warframe has enjoyed over a decade of success through consistent updates and strong player engagement. After canceling their multiplayer shooter, The Amazing Eternals, five years ago due to lackluster interest during the closed beta, Digital Extremes is determined not to repeat the same mistake with Soulframe.
