Soulframe is an ambitious fantasy MMORPG from Digital Extremes, ready to step out of Warframe’s shadow

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Creating an MMORPG is always a risky endeavor, but Digital Extremes, the studio behind Warframe, is venturing into entirely new territory. Their upcoming title Soulframe blends deliberate combat, deep mythology, and exploration infused with the spirit of nature. Unlike Warframe’s fast-paced sci-fi action, this fantasy hybrid MMORPG adopts a slower, more thoughtful tempo. Although still in pre-alpha and not yet available on Steam, the game is already drawing significant attention.

Announced during TennoCon 2022, Soulframe is set in a “mirror universe” of Warframe but builds its own distinct identity. Inspired by films such as Princess Mononoke and The NeverEnding Story, it explores a world torn between industry and nature. Players will traverse Midrath, a living land that shifts beneath their feet. Procedurally generated caves, distorted rivers, and whispering trees create the sense of an environment that reacts to your presence.

Creative Director Geoff Crookes emphasizes that Soulframe isn’t a “soulslike” game, nor does it aim to replicate Elden Ring. However, combat borrows familiar elements from that genre: dodging, parrying, and a lock-on system. You can throw swords like boomerangs, summon giant wolves, or petrify enemies using nature-based magic. Three skill trees — Courage, Grace, and Spirit — allow players to shape their character into a tank, agile fighter, or nature mage who wields the powers of fire and earth.

Digital Extremes is developing Soulframe in an open and iterative fashion, much like Warframe. The current pre-alpha began in late 2023 for selected players, with expanded testing planned for 2025. The game isn’t on Steam yet, as the studio wants the flexibility to push frequent updates without platform restrictions. Soulframe will be free-to-play, featuring what the team describes as “fair” monetization focused mainly on cosmetics.

The MMORPG market remains fiercely competitive, dominated by titles like Final Fantasy XIV and newcomers such as Throne and Liberty. Soulframe could stand out with its slower, weightier combat and strong atmosphere — but it will need compelling storytelling and content to avoid the pitfalls that plagued New World. For now, Soulframe is available exclusively through its own launcher, not via Steam.

You can sign up for access through the official link.