On June 20th, 2025, Digital Extremes opened the doors to its long-anticipated MMO Soulframe via a Closed Alpha test. Following years of cryptic teasers and developer showcases, fans of Warframe and newcomers alike stepped into this fantasy-infused world for the first time.
As one such fan, I spent several hours exploring what this game has to offer. While there’s a solid foundation, it’s clear that Soulframe still has much room for growth.
A World Worth Exploring
As I ventured deeper into the heart of Soulframe, I was struck not only by its visual splendor but also by the depth of its world-building. The semi-open world design creates a real sense of freedom and discovery, with sprawling forests, mystical ruins, and hidden caves waiting to be explored. Every corner seems to tell a story, from ancient murals etched into stone, to the haunting echoes of long-forgotten creatures that stir when approached. The world feels alive, enhanced further by dynamic weather systems and day-night cycles that heighten immersion.
What’s especially exciting is how alive the environments feel. From glowing bioluminescent plants to curious creatures that scurry across the ground or soar overhead, there’s always something to interact with or observe. These details not only evoke awe but instill a quiet sense of mystery, constantly leaving me to wonder what might lie just beyond the next hill or in the shadowed depths of a ruined temple.
Slow But Satisfying Combat
Combat in Soulframe is still in its early stages, but it’s clear that the developers are aiming for something a little different from the fast-paced action of Warframe. The combat here is slower and more methodical, placing a heavier emphasis on timing, positioning, and resource management. Whether you’re clashing with massive beasts in melee or casting spells from afar, you can feel the developers pushing you towards thoughtful decision-making over button-mashing.
While the core combat loop has potential, it does feel a bit rough around the edges at times. Some attacks can feel clunky, and the hit detection isn’t always as responsive as one would hope. That said, this is an early Alpha build, and there’s plenty of time for polish and refinement before launch.
A Fantasy Epic in the Making
Soulframe places strong emphasis on lore, which is deeply interwoven with the world itself. While the actual narrative is still sparse in this Alpha, the fragments revealed suggest a grand, unfolding epic — one where the line between the natural and the supernatural is blurred, and player choices may significantly shape the world.
What little story is available hints at themes of balance, restoration, and personal sacrifice. Though the main plot remains mostly out of reach, the game’s environmental storytelling and dialogue create a compelling narrative backdrop that invites further exploration.
Progression and Customization
Character progression in Soulframe shows potential, with multiple classes and abilities offering early signs of synergy and flexibility. Though the customization options in the Alpha are limited, the framework suggests a system that could eventually support deep and varied playstyles.
At this stage, however, the progression feels shallow. Rewards for leveling and completing quests are minimal, and the scope of character development remains unclear. Still, the groundwork is solid, and with further expansion and refinement, it could evolve into a rewarding system.
Building Connections in a Fantasy World
Although Soulframe is still in its early days, there’s a significant emphasis on multiplayer. The game encourages collaboration, allowing you to take down giant monsters or explore the world with your friends. The few multiplayer encounters I experienced were smooth, with players working together to overcome environmental challenges or combat enemies.
While the social aspect is still in its early stages, there’s potential for Soulframe to become a robust, cooperative experience, where players can forge meaningful connections and create lasting memories.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Soulframe shows a lot of promise. The world is beautiful and captivating, the combat has a lot of potential, and the story hints at something truly epic. However, it’s still in the early stages, and much of what was presented in this Closed Alpha will need refinement. Soulframe is still finding its rhythm in multiple apect, from its combat, to progression, and its multiplayer elements.
For now, it’s a game worth keeping an eye on, especially for fans of fantasy MMOs looking for something new. If the developers can fine-tune the rough edges and expand on the game’s foundational elements, Soulframe could evolve into a standout title in the genre.
