Warframe has a long history of experimenting with its game mechanics, often introducing wildly different systems with each new expansion.
From taking players into space battles with flying archwings to introducing fully-fledged open-world areas for players to freely explore, fans can always look forward to a fascinating new twist with each content drop.
The game's latest expansion, The Duviri Paradox, continues this trend by introducing a roguelike system that leverages the game's vast arsenal of weapons and Warframes into a randomized roguelike experience.Game Rant recently sat down with Warframe Creative Director Rebb Ford to discuss The Duviri Paradox's roguelike systems, which involve a mix of permanent progression between runs along with a satisfying power curve during each run.
Ford also talked about how The Duviri Paradox was surprisingly inspired by the ARAM mode in League of Legends, an idea that translates very nicely into Warframe thanks to the game's sizeable cast.
Although The Duviri Paradox has roguelike systems, it's not intended to be as punishing or challenging as many popular roguelike games.
Instead, the emphasis is on using roguelike mechanics to create a run-based gameplay loop that lets players grow increasingly powerful during the run.
Players choose from a random assortment of weapons and Warframes each run before heading out, and they'll encounter various random activities to engage with while out in the field.
Players will earn "Decree" power-ups throughout the run, much like how a Slay the Spire player acquires cards and relics.Similar to other popular roguelike titles, there's also a permanent progression system in the form of Drifter Intrinsics.
Players will be able to unlock Intrinsics in four categories that enhance various aspects of their gameplay.
Opportunity Intrinsics may open up more choices like rerolling certain things or expanding the random selection for each run, while Combat Intrinsics enhance the player's capacity for violence.Ford was introduced to League of Legends' ARAM mode during the pandemic, and the concept gave her the idea to apply a similar system to Warframe's cast of over 50+ unique bipedal killing machines.
A mode that lets players control a random Warframe proved to be a great use of roguelike variety while also removing the complex buildcraft that can be challenging for players with less established collections.Many League of Legends players exclusively play ARAM since it eliminates notions of metagaming and lets players focus on the moment-to-moment gameplay.
It's likely that The Duviri Paradox will receive similar treatment from many players who wish to escape the usual grind in favor of this more immediately gratifying session-based progression.