Frequently Asked Questions
The most-asked questions about Warframe.
What is Warframe?
Warframe is a free-to-play cooperative third-person shooter set in a distant future where players control the Tenno, ancient warriors awakened from cryosleep. These beings pilot biomechanical exosuits called Warframes to battle various factions across the solar system.
Who are the Tenno?
The Tenno are an enigmatic race of powerful warriors who were once children but were transformed into super-soldiers by the Orokin civilization. They serve as the player characters, wielding unique abilities and weapons to fight against the Grineer, Corpus, and Infestation.
Who is the main antagonist?
The primary villain is the Warlord Vor, though the overarching threat often stems from the Sentient race led by Ballas or the mysterious Zariman Ten Zero incident. The narrative also heavily features the Orokin Empire's fall and its lingering consequences through figures like the Lotus.
Where should a new player start?
New players begin in the Orbiter, their mobile base of operations, before launching into the tutorial mission on Earth to learn basic combat mechanics. It is recommended to complete the 'The Second Dream' quest early to understand the lore and unlock essential gameplay features.
What are Warframes?
Warframes are the customizable suits of armor that define a player's abilities, each possessing four unique powers ranging from healing allies to summoning elemental storms. Players can collect hundreds of these frames through crafting or trading, tailoring their loadouts for specific missions.
Is the game free to play?
Yes, Warframe is completely free to download and play without any mandatory payment requirements. While it offers a premium currency called Platinum for cosmetic items and time-saving boosts, all core gameplay content can be earned through grinding.
What are the major factions in the game?
The three main enemy factions include the militaristic Grineer clones, the profit-driven Corpus corporations, and the parasitic Infested creatures. Players also interact with the Tenno Conclave for PvP and various neutral or allied groups like the Ostron on Earth.
What is the Origin System?
The Origin System refers to the solar system map where players travel between planets and nodes to complete missions, which are procedurally generated levels filled with enemies and loot. It serves as the primary hub for exploration and progression throughout the game's vast campaign.
How does the in-game economy work?
Players primarily use Credits, a standard currency earned from missions, to craft weapons and upgrade gear using blueprints found in the game world. A secondary currency called Platinum is used exclusively on the player-driven Market or for purchasing cosmetics directly from Digital Extremes.
What defines Warframe's unique gameplay loop?
The core experience revolves around fast-paced movement mechanics like wall-running and jet dashes combined with deep customization of weapons and Warframes. Players constantly cycle through missions to gather resources, craft new gear, and unlock story quests that expand the narrative.