Digital Extremes, the creators of Warframe, unveiled exciting new content for their free-to-play title and their upcoming fantasy MMO, Soulframe, at TennoCon 2024. This article details the key announcements regarding gameplay features and the CEO's perspective on the live-service game model.
Warframe: 1999 – Winter 2024 Release
Protoframes, Infestations, and a 90s Twist
A gameplay demo for Warframe: 1999, a significant departure from the core game's sci-fi setting, was showcased. Set in the Infestation-ravaged Höllvania, players control Arthur Nightingale and his Protoframe, racing against time to find Dr. Entrati before New Year's Eve.
The demo featured Arthur using the Atomicycle, combat against proto-infested enemies, and an unexpected encounter with a 90s boy band (whose music is now available on the Warframe YouTube channel). The expansion launches on all platforms this winter.
The Hex: Meet the Team
Warframe: 1999 introduces The Hex, a six-member team. While only Arthur is playable in the demo, a novel romance system using "Kinematic Instant Messaging" allows players to build relationships with each member, potentially leading to a New Year's Eve kiss.
Animated Short Film
Digital Extremes is collaborating with The Line animation studio (known for Gorillaz music videos) on an animated short film set in the 1999 world, to be released alongside the expansion.
Soulframe Gameplay Demo
Open-World Fantasy MMO
The first Soulframe Devstream revealed extensive gameplay and story details. Players become Envoys, tasked with cleansing the Ode curse from Alca. The Warsong Prologue introduces the game's world and its slower, deliberate melee combat system. The Nightfold, a personal Orbiter, serves as a central hub for crafting, interacting with NPCs, and tending to a wolf companion.
Allies and Enemies
Players will encounter Ancestors, powerful spirits offering unique gameplay benefits (e.g., Verminia, the Rat Witch, aids in crafting and cosmetic upgrades). Enemies include Nimrod, a lightning-wielding giant, and the ominous Bromius, teased at the demo's conclusion.
Soulframe Release
Soulframe is currently in a closed alpha (Soulframe Preludes) with plans for wider access this fall.
Digital Extremes CEO on the Longevity of Live Service Games
The Premature Demise of Live Service Titles
In a VGC interview at TennoCon 2024, Digital Extremes CEO Steve Sinclair voiced concerns about major publishers prematurely abandoning live service games due to initial performance anxieties. He highlighted the significant investment in these games and the detrimental effects of early shutdowns, citing examples like Anthem, SYNCED, and Crossfire X. Digital Extremes, having learned from past experiences (like canceling The Amazing Eternals), is committed to long-term support for Soulframe.
