Digital Extremes, the creators of Warframe, unveiled exciting updates for their free-to-play title 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
Warframe: 1999's gameplay demo, showcased at TennoCon, presents a significant shift from the series' usual sci-fi setting. Set in the Infestation-ravaged Höllvania, players control Arthur Nightingale, leader of the Hex, utilizing Protoframes – predecessors to the main game's Warframes. The objective? Find Dr. Entrati before the New Year. The demo featured Arthur using the Atomicycle, battling proto-infested enemies, and even a 90s boy band encounter. The soundtrack from the demo is now available on the Warframe YouTube channel.
The Hex team consists of six members, each with unique roles. While the demo focuses on Arthur, the expansion introduces a romance system using "Kinematic Instant Message" to build relationships with Hex members.
An animated short, produced in collaboration with animation studio The Line (known for their work with Gorillaz), will accompany the game's release.
Soulframe Gameplay Demo – An Open-World Fantasy MMO
The Soulframe Devstream offered a live demo, introducing the Envoy character and the Ode curse plaguing Alca. Gameplay is slower and more deliberate than Warframe, focusing on melee combat. Players utilize the Nightfold, a personal Orbiter, to interact with NPCs, craft, and manage their giant wolf mount.
Encounters include Ancestors (spirits offering unique gameplay features, such as Verminia’s crafting assistance), formidable enemies like Nimrod (lightning attacks), and the ominous Bromius. Currently in a closed alpha (Soulframe Preludes), wider access is planned for Fall.
Digital Extremes CEO on the Premature Demise of Live Service Games
In a VGC interview, Digital Extremes CEO Steve Sinclair voiced concerns about major publishers abandoning live-service games too quickly due to initial underperformance. He highlighted the significant investment of time and resources, and the risks associated with high operating costs and fluctuating player numbers. He contrasted this with Warframe's long-term success, emphasizing the importance of sustained support and community engagement. The cancellation of their previous project, The Amazing Eternals, serves as a cautionary tale.
