Digital Extremes, the development studio behind the highly anticipated fantasy action RPG, Soulframe, has indicated that its previously anticipated 2025 launch is now viewed as an “aspirational goal” rather than a confirmed timeline. This adjustment suggests a potential shift in the release schedule for the spiritual sibling to the popular Warframe.

Despite this revised outlook, the developers are providing an immediate opportunity for eager players to delve into the game. For a limited window, coinciding with the ongoing Tennocon community event, access to Soulframe's pre-alpha, known as \"Preludes,\" has been made available. This unexpected access allows a broader audience to experience the game's early stages.

Geoff Crookes, the creative director for Soulframe, shared insights with Eurogamer regarding the release date uncertainty. When directly questioned about the 2025 launch, Crookes expressed a cautious optimism, stating, \"We have ambitions... We're going to judge where we are in the fall. We have ambitions to release it as soon as we can!\" Sarah Asselin, the community manager, echoed this sentiment, describing the fall release window as an \"aspirational goal.\" She further emphasized the studio's commitment to quality: \"We want to feel confident that we've built Soulframe out to the point where it feels good to do so, for the players and the developers.\"

This decision to open the pre-alpha to a wider audience stems from an acknowledgment by Digital Extremes that they had underestimated the immense interest in Soulframe. Crookes admitted, \"We didn't realise the queue was so big when we started to let people in, a lot of the people who were immediate signups kind of got left behind.\" This proactive step aims to alleviate the frustration of those who were unable to secure early access previously. Individuals interested in participating can sign up for the alpha through the official Soulframe website, where they can create an account and download the latest version of the game.

In conjunction with the pre-alpha release, Digital Extremes also unveiled a fresh trailer for Soulframe during Tennocon. This new footage showcases the game's refined combat mechanics and features a dramatic encounter with a formidable three-headed bear. The visual presentation hints at a captivating and dynamic fantasy experience, even as the development team remains focused on refining the game to meet their high standards.

The current availability of the pre-alpha, though brief, offers a unique chance for players to explore Soulframe's evolving world. This transparent approach by Digital Extremes, coupled with their commitment to delivering a polished experience, aims to build community engagement and excitement for the game's eventual full release, regardless of whether it arrives in 2025 or later.