Digital Extremes, creators of the popular free-to-play title Warframe, unveiled exciting new details about their upcoming expansions at TennoCon 2024. This includes a look at Warframe: 1999 and their ambitious fantasy MMO, Soulframe. Let's dive into the key announcements.

Warframe: 1999 – Winter 2024 Launch

Retro-Futuristic Mayhem: Protoframes and Infestation

The *Warframe: 1999* gameplay demo, finally revealed at TennoCon, transports players to a retro-infested Höllvania. Players control Arthur Nightingale, leader of the Hex, wielding a Protoframe – a precursor to the familiar Warframes. The mission? Find Dr. Entrati before the New Year.

The demo showcased thrilling action sequences, including Arthur riding the Atomicycle and battling proto-infested enemies, culminating in a surprising encounter with a '90s boy band (yes, really!). The demo's soundtrack is now available on the Warframe YouTube channel.

The Hex: Meet the Team

The Hex, Arthur's team, comprises six unique characters. While the demo focuses on Arthur, the expansion introduces a novel romance system, allowing players to build relationships with Hex members via "Kinematic Instant Message," leading to potential New Year's Eve kisses.

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 Warframe: 1999 universe, launching alongside the expansion.

Soulframe Gameplay Demo

Open-World Fantasy Adventure

The first *Soulframe* Devstream offered a comprehensive look at the game's world and mechanics. Players become Envoys, tasked with cleansing Alca of the Ode curse. The Warsong Prologue introduces the game's story and slower, more methodical melee combat. The Nightfold, a personal Orbiter, serves as a hub for crafting, interacting with NPCs, and even petting your wolf companion.

Allies and Enemies

Players will encounter Ancestors, powerful spirits offering unique abilities (Verminia, the Rat Witch, aids in crafting and cosmetic upgrades). Enemies include Nimrod, a lightning-wielding giant, and the ominous Bromius, glimpsed at the demo's conclusion.

Soulframe Release

Currently in a closed alpha ("Soulframe Preludes"), Soulframe is slated for wider release this Fall.

Digital Extremes CEO on the Longevity of Live Service Games

The Perils of Premature Abandonment

Digital Extremes CEO Steve Sinclair voiced concerns about large publishers prematurely abandoning live service games due to initial performance anxieties. He highlighted the significant investment in these games and the detrimental effect of early closures, citing examples like Anthem, SYNCED, and Crossfire X. In contrast, Warframe's decade-long success serves as a testament to the potential of sustained support. The lessons learned from canceling The Amazing Eternals five years ago are informing their approach to Soulframe.