Live Service Games: Warframe and Soulframe to Revolutionize Industry

Warframe's 1999 Expansion and Soulframe: A New Era for Live Service Games?

Digital Extremes, the creators of the popular free-to-play title Warframe, unveiled exciting new details about their upcoming expansion, Warframe: 1999, and their ambitious fantasy MMO, Soulframe, at TennoCon 2024. CEO Steve Sinclair also shared his insights on the often-short lifespan of live service games.

Warframe: 1999 – A Retro Sci-Fi Adventure

The Warframe: 1999 gameplay demo, showcased at TennoCon, offers a significant departure from the series' established sci-fi aesthetic. Trading sleek Orokin technology for the gritty atmosphere of a 1990s-inspired Höllvania, players take on the role of Arthur Nightingale, leader of the Hex team, piloting a Protoframe – a precursor to the familiar Warframes.

The demo highlighted Arthur's use of the Atomicycle, intense combat against proto-infested enemies, and an unexpected encounter with a 90s boy band (yes, really!). The full soundtrack from the demo is now available on the Warframe YouTube channel. Warframe: 1999 launches on all platforms this Winter 2024.

The Hex team features six unique members, though only Arthur is playable in the demo. A novel romance system, utilizing "Kinematic Instant Message," allows players to build relationships with Hex members, leading to potential New Year's Eve romance.

Furthermore, Digital Extremes is collaborating with The Line animation studio (known for their work with Gorillaz) on an animated short film set in the Warframe: 1999 universe, launching alongside the expansion.

Soulframe – A Deliberate Fantasy MMO

The first Soulframe Devstream offered an extensive look at the game's open-world fantasy setting and gameplay. Players become Envoys, tasked with cleansing the Ode curse from the land of Alca. The Warsong Prologue introduces the game's world and narrative.

Unlike Warframe's fast-paced action, Soulframe emphasizes slower, more methodical melee combat. Players utilize the Nightfold, a personal Orbiter, to interact with NPCs, craft items, and even pet a giant wolf companion.

Players will encounter Ancestors, powerful spirits offering unique gameplay benefits, such as Verminia (the Rat Witch) who assists with crafting and cosmetic upgrades. Enemies include Nimrod, a formidable lightning-wielding foe, and the ominous Bromius, teased at the demo's conclusion.

Currently, Soulframe is in a closed alpha phase ("Soulframe Preludes") with plans for broader access this Fall.

Digital Extremes' CEO on the Perils of Premature Live Service Abandonment

In a VGC interview at TennoCon 2024, Steve Sinclair voiced concerns about major publishers prematurely abandoning live service games due to initial performance anxieties. He highlighted the significant investment in these titles and the potential waste when projects are shut down too soon due to fluctuating player numbers.

He cited Anthem, SYNCED, and Crossfire X as examples of high-profile games cancelled prematurely. In contrast, Warframe's long-term success demonstrates the potential of sustained support and community engagement. Digital Extremes' experience with The Amazing Eternals (cancelled five years ago) informs their commitment to avoiding similar mistakes with Soulframe.