Warframe Release Order

2 min read 02-12-2024

Warframe, the free-to-play action RPG, boasts a vast and ever-expanding universe. For newcomers, understanding the release order of its various content can be a daunting task. This guide provides a chronological overview, helping you navigate the game's rich history and appreciate the evolution of its gameplay and lore. Note that this focuses on major content updates and expansions, not smaller patches or hotfixes. The exact dates may vary slightly depending on the region.

Early Access and Foundation (2013-2014)

The game launched into closed beta in March 2013, introducing players to the core gameplay loop: fast-paced combat, parkour movement, and customizable Warframes. The initial release included a limited number of Warframes, weapons, and planets.

Key Early Releases:

Initial Beta Release (March 2013): This laid the groundwork for the game, featuring the foundational mechanics that define Warframe today.
Open Beta (October 2013): The game transitioned to open beta, allowing broader player access and accelerating development.
First Major Updates: The early updates focused on expanding the arsenal of weapons and Warframes, alongside improvements to gameplay and user interface.

Expansion and Refinement (2014-2016)

This period saw significant expansion in terms of content, story, and gameplay mechanics. New Warframes with unique abilities, expansive planets to explore, and compelling quests enriched the Warframe experience.

Key Expansions:

Introduction of New Planets and Quests: Several major planets and interconnected questlines were added, deepening the lore and narrative.
New Warframe Releases: Several iconic Warframes made their debut during this era, each introducing unique gameplay styles.
Gameplay Enhancements: Significant improvements were made to the core gameplay loop, including refining the movement system and adding new combat mechanics.

The Golden Age of Content (2016-2019)

This period witnessed an explosion of new content, cementing Warframe's position as a leading free-to-play title. The introduction of major game modes, new factions, and significant story expansions greatly expanded the game's scope and replayability.

Notable Additions:

Major Game Modes: New game modes were introduced, offering diverse gameplay experiences beyond the core missions.
New Factions and Enemies: The introduction of new factions expanded the game's lore and provided engaging challenges.
Story Expansions: Several major story expansions were released, weaving together the overarching narrative and introducing compelling characters.

Continued Evolution (2019-Present)

Warframe's development continues at a rapid pace. New Warframes, weapons, quests, and game modes are consistently added, keeping the experience fresh and exciting.

Ongoing Development:

Regular Updates and Expansions: The developers continue to release substantial updates with new content and features.
Community Engagement: Warframe developers actively engage with their community, shaping the game's future direction based on player feedback.
Cross-Platform Play: The game’s cross-platform functionality has been a significant development, allowing players across various platforms to interact.

This chronological overview provides a framework for understanding the release order of Warframe's major content. While a complete listing of every update is beyond the scope of this guide, it highlights the major milestones that have shaped the game into the expansive experience it is today. Remember to consult the official Warframe website or community resources for the most up-to-date information.