Warframe's Developer, Digital Extremes, Unveils Exciting Updates for Warframe and Soulframe at TennoCon 2024
Digital Extremes, the creators of the popular free-to-play looter shooter Warframe, showcased significant updates for both their flagship title and their upcoming fantasy MMO, Soulframe, at TennoCon 2024. CEO Steve Sinclair also shared his perspective on the challenges and successes of live-service game development.
Warframe: 1999 - A Retro Sci-Fi Adventure
The highly anticipated Warframe: 1999 expansion received a gameplay demo, revealing a dramatic shift from the series' usual futuristic setting. Players will explore the Infestation-ravaged city of Höllvania as Arthur Nightingale, leader of the Hex, wielding a Protoframe.
The demo featured Arthur utilizing the Atomicycle, intense combat against proto-infested enemies, and an unexpected encounter with a 90s boy band (whose theme song is now available on the Warframe YouTube channel). The expansion introduces a romance system, allowing players to build relationships with Hex members via "Kinematic Instant Message."
A collaborative animated short, produced with The Line (known for their work with Gorillaz), is slated to launch alongside Warframe: 1999 this winter on all platforms.
Soulframe - A Deliberate Fantasy MMO Experience
The first Soulframe Devstream offered a comprehensive look at the game's open-world fantasy setting and gameplay. Players assume the role of an Envoy, tasked with cleansing the Ode curse from the land of Alca. The Warsong Prologue introduced the game's narrative and showcased its slower, more methodical melee combat.
Players will utilize the Nightfold, a portable Orbiter, to interact with NPCs, craft items, and even pet their wolf companion. The game features Ancestors, powerful spirit allies, each offering unique gameplay benefits. Enemies include the formidable Nimrod and the ominous Bromius.
Soulframe is currently in a closed alpha phase (Soulframe Preludes), with plans for broader access this fall.
Digital Extremes CEO on the Longevity of Live Service Games
In an interview with VGC, Steve Sinclair expressed concern over the trend of major publishers prematurely abandoning live service games due to initial performance concerns. He highlighted Warframe's long-term success as a testament to the potential of sustained development and community engagement. Sinclair emphasized the significant investment in these games and the importance of long-term commitment.
The success of Warframe and the upcoming releases of Warframe: 1999 and Soulframe demonstrate Digital Extremes' commitment to long-term live service game development, offering a compelling counterpoint to the trend of early abandonment.
