Key Takeaways
- Take time to learn game mechanics to avoid feeling overwhelmed in the beginning.
- Spend starting platinum on inventory slots and prioritize star chart progression.
- Join a clan for exclusive rewards and use modules to strengthen weapons.
Having been continuously updated since its release in 2013, it’s safe to say that there are a lot of moving parts in Digital Extremes’ third-person MMO; Warframe. Though its addictively fluid and fast-paced combat is incredibly accessible, there are a few things to know before newer Tennos set out on their parkour-assisted rampage across the galaxy.
Whether players are looking to get their Mastery rank up as fast as possible or making the mistake of selling every single item they just so happen to come across, there are plenty of minor errors one can make that can really hamper their progress in the long run. Let’s look at some basic tips for new players looking to live out their alien-ninja fantasies.
10 Take It Slow
Learning The Mechanics
Warframe doesn’t always explain itself; it can immediately feel overwhelming once players are out of the tutorial and on their ship, which is why it’s so important that new players take their time to understand all the mechanics in front of them.
A brief walk around the Orbiter ship, which acts as the game’s ‘Hub world,’ will let players learn how to properly navigate the game and give them a glimpse into what’s in store. Warfame’s primary gameplay cycle is grinding and time-gated mechanics – so even though one may be eager to get started, there’s no harm in taking it a little slower and properly coming to grips with the ins and outs of the mechanics.
9 Spend The Starting Platinum
Get As Much Inventory Space As Possible
Upon starting, players may be eager to save the 50 Platinum currency given to them or spend it as soon as possible on a nifty cape. However, these coins are most valuable when put towards Inventory and Warframe slots.
Inventory slots are invaluable, and there are few opportunities to free up that vital space without spending rare in-game currency. Though Platinum prices do vary depending on how active the player base is, it’s best to use one’s starting gift for the ability to have more Items and more Frames.
8 Prioritize The Star Chart
Perfect For Early-Game Progress
The Star Chart is where the real meat and potatoes are for Warframe, essentially acting as its campaign, especially for early-game players. Avoid going to the open-world maps. They’re typically heavily geared toward more experienced players.
When opened, The Star Chart will make it reasonably clear where to go and when given its rewards and requirements. It’s the perfect way to get to grips with one’s Frame and get used to the actual combat and exploration while getting some valuable loot and experience.
7 Join A Clan As Soon As Possible
Or Create One With Friends
As an MMO, Warframe naturally prioritizes its player-social elements. Clans are essentially the game’s ‘Guild’ system, where players get together to create a group dedicated to playing through segments together.
Joining a clan opens up numerous invaluable rewards and exclusive privileges. It’s usually best to join an active clan with a more experienced player base, who can make one’s actual cosmic journey easier and advise them on their travels. Access to trading posts and clan dojos is indispensable as one progresses into the game.
6 Use Modules
For Strengthening Weapons & Warframes
Upon completion of the “Liberate the imprisoned Arms Dealer” tutorial mission, players will unlock the Arsenal, which is used to create Mods that strengthen one’s own weapons and abilities. Most enemies in-game have a chance of dropping mods of different rarities, so players should always have these equipped to get the most out of their Frame.
From massively increasing reload speed to almost doubling one’s ability duration, their effects are incredibly varied and, as mentioned, immensely potent. They can also be acquired through trading, daily login rewards, and in-game vendors. There’s no reason not to be using Mods.
5 Look Through The Codex
Not As Dull As It Sounds
Not only can this help educate newer players on the universe of Warfame, but filling out Codex Entries by scanning enemies can give the player bonus rewards and increase the chances of Mods dropping.
It’s an essential part of the game, providing insight into mission types, different mods, and the actual enemies themselves. Warframe’s lore is incredibly in-depth and varied, so it’s always worth educating oneself on the actual story. The added drop bonuses are pretty nice, too. As soon as possible, players should get scanning and get learning.
4 Keep Quest Items
As Tempting As Selling Is
Though this one is a relatively simple tip, it’s a mistake that’s all too common among newer players who are eager to earn some quick credits. Though these can be earned back later in the game, it takes far longer to get them back than it does to earn them.
When considering whether a quest item is worth the space, it’s always handy to consult any online guides or builds to understand just what one might be giving up early in the game. Even if a weapon or frame doesn’t initially seem to have the stats or playstyle that suits one’s own, that doesn’t mean that, through some TLC, they won’t be worth it.
3 Learn How To Farm Resources
Key Stage In The Grind
All players looking to improve will eventually reach this point. Knowing where the best spots and missions are to gather valuable materials with the least amount of effort will make one’s life that much easier.
Stockpiling resources for upgrading weapons, Mods, and Frames will require newcomers to dedicate themselves to a pretty lengthy grind in order to get the necessary resources, so it’s always good to learn where to find what and always check missions for their rewards.
2 Daily Missions
Reap The Benefits
For newer players, daily missions are a great way to get extra items and resources with reduced effort. The Nightwave system from the main menu shows players the daily and weekly challenges they can use to earn special ‘Standing’ currency, which is essential for early-game progression.
It works similarly to a battle pass, with different seasons and rewards depending on the timeframe. Whether that be skins, weapons, or their unique mods, it’s chock-full of valuable rewards and goodies.
1 Each Tenno Has Their Own Style
Every Player Needs Theirs
Having such a vast array of different frames in-game can overwhelm some players who want to try each one just to see their unique abilities. Though it’s entirely understandable, newcomers must focus on getting to grips with their Warframes before progressing onto another.
Each Frame has its own strengths and weaknesses, but they’re all equally valuable when in the right hands. It’s important to have fun, and not burn oneself out in their journey for what’s ‘meta’. A player who understands their Frame and has spent time with it will be much more versatile and feel infinitely more comfortable in any situation.