Warframe: 1999 and Soulframe Aim to Show How Live Service Games Should Be Done

Digital Extremes, the minds behind Warframe, unveiled exciting new details for their free-to-play looter shooter and its upcoming fantasy MMO, Soulframe, at TennoCon 2024. Let's dive into the gameplay features and CEO Steve Sinclair's insightful comments on the current state of live-service games.

Warframe: 1999 – Arriving Winter 2024

Protoframes, Infestations, and Boy Bands, Oh My!

TennoCon 2024 finally gave us a gameplay glimpse of *Warframe: 1999*. This expansion dramatically shifts the series' usual sci-fi setting, transporting players to the Infestation-ravaged city of Höllvania. You'll play as Arthur Nightingale, leader of the Hex, wielding a Protoframe—a precursor to the Warframes we know and love. Your mission? Find Dr. Entrati before the New Year's Eve clock strikes twelve.

The demo showcased thrilling moments: Arthur riding the Atomicycle, intense battles against proto-infested hordes, and an unexpected encounter with a '90s boy band (yes, really!). Enjoy the full soundtrack from the demo, now available on the Warframe YouTube channel. If boy bands aren't your thing, you can always face off against their infested counterparts when the game launches on all platforms this winter.

Meet the Hex

The Hex, Arthur's team, comprises six unique characters, each with their own personality and role. While the demo focused on Arthur, Warframe: 1999 introduces a surprising new element: romance! Navigate the world of flickering CRT monitors and dial-up connections using "Kinematic Instant Message" to build relationships with Hex members, unlocking conversations and the potential for a New Year's Eve kiss.

A Warframe Anime Short?

Digital Extremes is collaborating with The Line animation studio (known for their work with Gorillaz) on an animated short set in the infested world of 1999. Details are scarce, but the developers confirmed its release alongside the game.

Soulframe Gameplay Demo – An Open-World Fantasy MMO

Embark on a Fantasy Adventure

Digital Extremes finally unveiled a *Soulframe* Devstream, providing a live gameplay demo packed with story and gameplay details. As an Envoy, your task is to cleanse the Ode curse plaguing the land of Alca. The Warsong Prologue showcased in the Devstream serves as an introduction to this captivating world.

Unlike Warframe's fast-paced acrobatics, Soulframe features slower, more deliberate melee combat. Your trusty Nightfold, a pocket Orbiter, acts as your mobile base, allowing you to interact with NPCs, craft gear, and even pet your giant wolf mount.

Allies and Enemies Await

Your journey will lead you to Ancestors—powerful spirits you collect, each offering unique gameplay benefits. Verminia, the Rat Witch, for example, assists with crafting consumables and cosmetic upgrades. You'll also face formidable enemies like Nimrod, a lightning-wielding giant, and the ominous Bromius, teased at the demo's conclusion.

Soulframe Release Date

While Soulframe isn't quite ready for full release, an invite-only closed alpha, "Soulframe Preludes," is currently underway. The developers plan to expand access to a wider audience this fall.

Digital Extremes CEO on the Perils of Premature Live Service Abandonment

The Short Lifespan of Many Live Service Games

In a VGC interview at TennoCon 2024, Digital Extremes CEO Steve Sinclair voiced concerns about large publishers prematurely abandoning live-service games following initial struggles. These games, designed for long-term engagement and updates, often face early closures if initial player numbers disappoint.

Sinclair lamented the wasted effort and resources invested in these projects, highlighting the significant costs and risks associated with live service development. He cited examples like Anthem, SYNCED, and Crossfire X as cautionary tales.

In contrast, Warframe's decade-long success demonstrates the potential for sustained growth and player engagement through consistent updates. After canceling The Amazing Eternals five years ago, Digital Extremes is dedicated to avoiding similar mistakes with Soulframe.