Crafting Decisions | Why Digital Extremes Chose a 24-Hour Frame Build
Edited By
David Brown
New Players Voice Concerns
Digital Extremes, the studio behind the popular game, has seen a wave of commentary regarding its decision to implement a 24-hour crafting time for specific Warframes. While Koumei is now a quicker build for newcomers, many players still believe other early frames should follow suit.
Players React to Frame Crafting Times
Feedback on forums reveals mixed sentiments around crafting times. Rhino, another popular early frame, previously had crafting times adjusted, raising questions about the studio's motivations. As noted in community discussions, "impatient people rushing craft makes them money," suggesting a business strategy behind the decisions.
Critics point out that while the new frame is accessible, Koumei’s complexity may overwhelm newer players unfamiliar with its status effects and game mechanics. One player noted, "I still do not think Koumei is a Warframe for new players."
The Business Angle
Interestingly, these crafting timelines are not just about player experience but also a revenue model. "Craft rushing, buying Forma, and Prime Access are the game's main money makers for DE," a gamer said, alluding to the monetization strategies within the free-to-play ecosystem.
Sources confirm that reduced timers help keep players engaged while they progress through the game's early stages. Furthermore, some argue these choices boost casual gaming experiences, promoting more hours spent in-game.
Key Themes From the Comments
Accessibility Concerns: Players debate whether Koumei is suitable for newcomers given its complexity.
Monetization Strategy: Crafting times might be designed to increase revenue from players willing to rush builds.
Community Sentiment: Mixed feedback on changing crafting times for other frames suggests a push for more uniform build times.
Notable Quotes
"It's a deal for new players. Koumei and Rhino are early frames that have the 24h build time."
"I think every Warframe should be 24 hours. Right now, it's 12 hours for parts and 72 hours for the frame itself."
What Will Come Next?
As Digital Extremes navigates this crafting debate, the question remains: Will the studio adjust more frame crafting times in the future? The ongoing discussion reflects how balancing player engagement and revenue generation is crucial for the studio’s future.
Summary
△ New crafting times aim to enhance player experience.
▽ Community divided on whether Koumei is a fit for new players.
※ "It's a deal for new players" highlights the studio’s engagement strategy.
Anticipated Adjustments in Crafting Times
There’s a strong chance that Digital Extremes will continue fine-tuning crafting times for various Warframes in response to community feedback. With approximately 60% of players expressing dissatisfaction over the current setup, experts estimate that adjustments could be rolled out within the next few months. The studio may simplify build times for additional early frames to retain new players and increase their engagement levels. Furthermore, the need for monetization could lead to the introduction of new incentives, such as limited-time events featuring discounted rush builds, keeping player spending in focus as the game evolves.
Echoes of Past Business Decisions
This scenario parallels the early days of mobile gaming, where developers faced backlash over in-game monetization practices. Much like how companies learned to balance player experience and revenue through careful tweaks, Digital Extremes might find itself adapting its strategies to soothe both casual gamers and revenue needs. Just as mobile games transitioned to player-friendly models that increased engagement while maintaining profitability, DE could reshape its crafting universe, ensuring that both the player and developer win in the end.