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

Digital Extremes, creators of the popular free-to-play title Warframe, unveiled exciting new content at TennoCon 2024, including a gameplay demo for Warframe: 1999 and a Devstream showcasing Soulframe, their upcoming fantasy MMO. CEO Steve Sinclair also shared his perspective on the current state of live-service game development.

Warframe: 1999 - A Retro Trip to Höllvania

Protoframes, Infestation, and a Boy Band Showdown

The *Warframe: 1999* expansion plunges players into a 1990s-inspired setting, battling proto-infested creatures as Arthur Nightingale, leader of the Hex, piloting a Protoframe. The demo featured thrilling Atomicycle chases and a unique encounter with a boy band—yes, really! The full soundtrack from the demo is available on the *Warframe* YouTube channel. The expansion launches on all platforms this winter.

Romance in the Digital Age

The Hex team comprises six characters, with Arthur Nightingale as the playable protagonist. A novel romance system, utilizing "Kinematic Instant Messaging," allows players to forge relationships with Hex members, leading to unique interactions and a potential New Year's Eve kiss.

An Animated Short Film

Digital Extremes is collaborating with The Line animation studio on an animated short film set within the Warframe: 1999 universe. Further details are scarce, but the short is slated to release alongside the expansion.

Soulframe - A Fantasy MMO Unveiled

Embark on a Soul-Searching Journey

The first *Soulframe* Devstream showcased extensive gameplay and story details. Players assume the role of an Envoy, tasked with cleansing the Ode curse plaguing the land of Alca. The Warsong Prologue introduces the game's world and its deliberate, melee-focused 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 Await

Players will encounter Ancestors, powerful spirits offering unique gameplay benefits. Verminia, the Rat Witch, for example, assists with crafting and cosmetic upgrades. Nimrod, a formidable lightning-wielding enemy, and Bromius, a mysterious omen beast, were also showcased.

Soulframe Release Timeline

Currently in a closed alpha phase ("Soulframe Preludes"), Soulframe is expected to open to a broader audience this fall.

Digital Extremes CEO on the Perils of Premature Live Service Abandonment

The Need for Long-Term Commitment

In an interview with VGC, Digital Extremes CEO Steve Sinclair voiced concern over the trend of large publishers prematurely abandoning live-service games due to initial performance anxieties. He highlighted the significant investment of time and resources in these projects and emphasized the importance of long-term support to foster community growth. Using Warframe's decade-long success as a counterpoint to the failures of titles like Anthem, SYNCED, and Crossfire X, Sinclair underscored the need for patience and sustained commitment to the live-service model. The cancellation of The Amazing Eternals five years prior serves as a cautionary tale for the studio's approach to Soulframe.