Warframe: 1999, Soulframe Set New Standards for Live Service Games

Digital Extremes, the developers behind the popular free-to-play looter shooter *Warframe*, have unveiled thrilling updates and insights into their upcoming projects during TennoCon 2024. From the futuristic world of *Warframe* to the mystical realms of their new fantasy MMO, *Soulframe*, the studio is setting new standards for live service games. Dive in to discover the latest on gameplay features and what CEO Steve Sinclair has to say about the industry's approach to live service gaming.

Warframe: 1999 Coming in Winter 2024

Protoframes, Infestations, and Boy Bands

The much-anticipated *Warframe: 1999* expansion is set to transport players to Höllvania, a city in the throes of an early Infestation outbreak. Here, you'll step into the boots of Arthur Nightingale, the leader of the Hex, who wears a Protoframe—the precursor to the Warframes we know and love. Your mission? Race against time to locate Dr. Entrati before the New Year's Eve deadline.

The gameplay demo showcased Arthur's thrilling ride on the Atomicycle, fierce battles against hordes of proto-infested enemies, and even a surprising nod to '90s culture with a boy band performance. Fans of the soundtrack can now enjoy the full track on the Warframe YouTube channel, while others can look forward to battling an infested version of the boy band when *Warframe: 1999* launches across all platforms in winter 2024.

Get to Know the Hex

The Hex, a group of six unique characters, each brings their own flair and role to the team. While you'll start as Arthur Nightingale, *Warframe: 1999* introduces a novel romance system. Set against a nostalgic backdrop of CRT monitors and dial-up connections, players can use "Kinematic Instant Message" to foster relationships with Hex members, potentially leading to a memorable New Year's Eve kiss.

Warframe Anime

Digital Extremes is collaborating with The Line, the animation studio behind Gorillaz's music videos, to create an animated short set in the infected world of 1999. While details are scarce, fans can expect this short to accompany the launch of *Warframe: 1999*.

Soulframe Gameplay Demo

An Open-World Fantasy MMO

After much anticipation, Digital Extremes unveiled the first *Soulframe* Devstream, offering a deep dive into the game's story and mechanics. As an Envoy in *Soulframe*, your mission is to cleanse the Ode curse from the land of Alca. The Warsong Prologue sets the stage for this epic journey, introducing players to a world of slower, more deliberate melee combat.

Your personal sanctuary, the Nightfold, serves as a hub where you can interact with NPCs, craft gear, and bond with your giant wolf mount, enhancing your adventure in this open-world fantasy MMO.

Allies and Enemies

Throughout your journey, you'll encounter Ancestors—spirits with unique abilities that aid your quest. For example, Verminia, the Rat Witch, assists in crafting consumables and unlocking cosmetic upgrades. You'll also face formidable foes like Nimrod, who wields lightning attacks, and the ominous Bromius, hinted at the demo's conclusion.

Soulframe Release Date

While *Soulframe* is currently in an invite-only closed alpha phase known as Soulframe Preludes, the developers plan to expand access to a broader audience this Fall, promising an immersive experience in the enchanting world of Alca.

Digital Extremes CEO Comments on Short-Lived Live Service Games

Are Big Publishers Giving Up on Live Service Games Too Quickly?

In an interview with VGC at TennoCon 2024, Steve Sinclair, CEO of Digital Extremes, voiced his concerns about the trend of large companies abandoning live service games shortly after launch due to initial struggles. Sinclair highlighted the dedication required to build and maintain these games, lamenting the quick shutdowns that can occur when player numbers dip.

"Isn’t that a shame," Sinclair remarked. "You put so many years of your life into iterating on those systems or building technology or building the start of a community, and because the operating costs are high, you get terrified when you see the numbers drop and you leave."

Examples like *Anthem*, *SYNCED*, and *Crossfire X* underscore his point, having been discontinued within a year or two of their release. In contrast, *Warframe* has flourished for over a decade, thanks to continuous updates and strong player engagement. After the cancellation of their multiplayer shooter, *The Amazing Eternals*, five years ago due to lackluster interest during its closed beta, Digital Extremes is determined to avoid repeating history with *Soulframe*.