"Warframe: 1999 and Soulframe Set New Standards for Live Service Games"

Digital Extremes, the developers behind the beloved free-to-play looter shooter Warframe, recently unveiled exciting updates for both Warframe and their upcoming fantasy MMO, Soulframe. These announcements, made during TennoCon 2024, provide a glimpse into the future of these games and the broader philosophy of live service games as articulated by CEO Steve Sinclair.

Warframe: 1999 Coming in Winter 2024

Protoframes, Infestations, and Boy Bands

In this new narrative, players assume the role of Arthur Nightingale, the leader of the Hex, who navigates the city wearing a Protoframe—a precursor to the Warframes players are familiar with. The demo highlighted thrilling sequences, including Arthur riding the Atomicycle and engaging in fierce combat against hordes of proto-infested enemies, all set against a backdrop of a '90s boy band's music.

For fans of the demo's soundtrack, the full track is now available to stream on the Warframe YouTube channel. And for those eager to dive into action, the expansion will allow players to face off against an infested version of the boy band upon its release across all platforms.

Get to Know the Hex

The Hex, a group of six unique characters, each with distinct roles and personalities, forms the core team in Warframe: 1999. While the demo focused on Arthur Nightingale, the expansion introduces a novel romance system. Set in a nostalgic '90s atmosphere complete with CRT monitors and dial-up connections, players can foster relationships with Hex members through "Kinematic Instant Message," leading to intimate New Year’s Eve interactions.

Warframe Anime

In a collaboration with The Line, the animation studio behind Gorillaz's music videos, Digital Extremes is producing an animated short set in the world of Warframe: 1999. This short will complement the expansion's launch, offering fans a new way to engage with the game's universe.

Soulframe Gameplay Demo

An Open-World Fantasy MMO

Players can interact with their environment and NPCs within the Nightfold, a personal Orbiter where they can also craft gear and bond with their giant wolf mount.

Allies and Enemies

Throughout the journey, players will encounter Ancestors—spirits with unique gameplay mechanics. For instance, Verminia, the Rat Witch, assists with crafting consumables and unlocking cosmetic upgrades. Enemies such as Nimrod, a towering figure with lightning attacks, and Bromius, an ominous beast, present formidable challenges.

Soulframe Release Date

Currently, Soulframe is in an invite-only closed alpha phase called Soulframe Preludes. However, the developers plan to expand access to a broader audience this Fall, promising more immersive experiences in the world of Alca.

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, expressed concerns about the premature abandonment of live service games by large publishers. He highlighted the challenges these games face with high operating costs and the pressure to maintain player numbers.

"It's a shame," Sinclair remarked, pointing out the years of effort invested in building communities and systems only to see projects shut down due to initial struggles. Examples like Anthem, SYNCED, and Crossfire X illustrate this trend, whereas Warframe's longevity showcases the potential of sustained developer commitment.

Digital Extremes' experience with The Amazing Eternals, canceled after a lackluster closed beta, underscores their determination to nurture Soulframe, ensuring it does not suffer the same fate.