Soulframe gets violent next month huge action RPG update
After three years of invitation-only playtests, the world is about to open up, and the transformation is set to be anything but subtle. Next week, November 6, Soulframe is officially opening its doors to everyone, promising a deep dive into a fantasy action RPG that is poised for a seismic shift.
But this isn’t just a new launch; developers are preparing for a massive structural overhaul. Following the initial open alpha, the game will undergo a profound transformation that will redefine the landscape of Midrath, the expansive open landmass that serves as the game’s stage. Prepare yourselves, because the world you thought you knew is about to become corrupted, and the players will be tasked with bringing it back to life.
Creative director Geoff Crookes admitted that the transition to this new phase, titled Prelude 17 or Verse of the Veilands, will be much more unforgiving and harsh at first glance. This heavy-handed approach is intentional, designed to challenge new players and demand true ownership over their journey in a newly altered world.
The goal of this update is clear: to dramatically improve the onboarding experience and give players greater control over their decisions from the very beginning. Though still in development, this phase provides the functional bones of what will ultimately become the final game, focusing on an immediate, direct introduction to the new reality.
Players who found it challenging to explore the open world freely provided critical feedback, leading the team to implement deeper introductory mechanics. In Verse of the Veilands, the main quest will actively guide players in stopping the siphons that are draining Midrath of its vibrant color. As players restore zones, new enemies and resources will emerge, and previously passive activities like fishing will become accessible.
Furthermore, the worldbuilding is receiving a rich infusion of lore. Players will start to hear radio transmissions from various faction leaders, filling in the history and complex narratives of the world. This ensures players have an integrated role in cleansing the corruption, deepening their engagement with the environment.
The gameplay mechanics are also receiving a significant injection of new action. A brand new Pact, Soulframe’s equivalent of a class, is being introduced. This new role is designed as a “hunter, poacher-type Pact,” tied to the alien Ode race. Equipping it unlocks unique, physics-defying abilities, allowing players to tether enemies with a sci-fi bola, pierce them with spikes, and launch them away with a giant balloon—a high-octane, Metal Gear Solid inspired arsenal.
The development team has stressed the sheer volume of changes packed into this update, noting that they are still fine-tuning details. While some anticipation suggests a slight delay, the plan is to release these vital updates before the end of next month. It is an evolution that designers believe represents one of the most violent and significant structural changes the game has made in a long time, promising a nerve-wracking and rewarding experience for all who dare to enter the newly corrupted realm.