Reflecting on my June blog post, Why I Stopped Playing Warframe: A Veteran’s Perspective, I realize how mistaken I was about the Warframe 1999 expansion. What I initially dismissed because it was yet another deviation from the game’s core turned out to be an engaging and well-executed addition to the Warframe universe.
A Surprisingly Enjoyable Experience
Despite my general disdain for time travel stories, with their inevitable continuity issues and delivery challenges, Warframe 1999 won me over. While nitpicking could reveal many flaws, the core mechanics are rock-solid. The expansion’s questline serves as an excellent introduction to Höllvania, a fascinating new setting populated by intriguing characters. In my opinion, this could even serve as a viable starting point for new players, rather than forcing 100 hours of star chart grind.
The Dating Sim Mechanics: Unexpectedly Amusing
One of the more silly elements of Warframe 1999 is the optional dating sim mechanics. While completely unrealistic with their overly forward and “thirsty” delivery, they’re undeniably amusing. These interactions capture the same charm found in anime or romance stories, a mix of hilarity and exaggerated drama that’s hard to resist.
Enhancing the Emotional Impact
Although this expansion takes players away from the Star Chart and even its timeline, it offers a unique twist: the ability to revisit older quests using the new Protoframe (humanoid) skins. Experiencing The Second Dream with them intensifies the emotional themes, making an already poignant quest even more impactful.
Room for Improvement
While I’ve come to appreciate Warframe 1999, I still believe the game could benefit from a major overhaul akin to World of Warcraft’s Cataclysm. Reimagining the Star Chart, the heart of Warframe, would breathe new life into the game for both veterans and newcomers. That said, what’s here now is undeniably enjoyable, and I’m content to explore this new content.
Looking Ahead
For now, I’ll happily embrace the quirky charm of Warframe 1999 and its offerings. Like many others, I’ll be scouring YouTube for the NYE Protoframe kisses, because, let’s face it, who can resist those over-the-top moments?
In the end, Warframe 1999 reminded me why I fell in love with this game in the first place: its ability to surprise and delight, even when I least expect it.