Digital Extremes has confirmed that Soulframe, its upcoming fantasy action RPG from the creators of Warframe, will open its early alpha testing to all PC players on November 6, 2026. Previously restricted to invited participants, the new Open Preludes program removes the invitation requirement, allowing anyone to register through the official Soulframe website and experience the game for free. According to the developer's official announcement, the expanded testing phase will introduce more players to the world of Midrath while preparing for Preludes 17: Verse of the Veilands, a substantial update featuring rideable wolves, environmental progression systems, and additional gameplay activities later in November.
One of the most anticipated additions is the Omen Wolf mount system, which allows players to transform their previously rescued wolf pups into fully grown rideable companions. Unlocking the feature requires completing the wolf's training, purifying 2 corrupted Veilands regions, and crafting a special Bairnday Biscuit to trigger its transformation. The upcoming update also introduces a new environmental restoration system where invading Ode forces corrupt regions through energy draining siphons. Players must complete objectives, learn each region's sacred song, and eliminate the corruption to restore wildlife, unlock activities such as fishing, and access different resources and rewards. These changes aim to make exploration more meaningful while giving players a stronger sense of progression throughout the world.
Combat customization is also expanding with the introduction of Ode Shrike, a new Pact inspired by the hunting equipment used by enemy factions. Its abilities include deployable spike traps, balloon darts capable of lifting enemies, bolas that link damage between targets, and an evasive explosive attack. Meanwhile, Digital Extremes is improving its Votive mission system to provide clearer objectives and easier navigation through the world map. The developer also intends to strengthen cooperative gameplay and public matchmaking, particularly for dungeons and group missions, although these improvements have not all been confirmed for Preludes 17.
The update will also bring back the seasonal Bita's Eve event, introducing new rewards, a headless horse rider miniboss named Veltruska, and a mysterious fish called Sunken Terror. New players entering Open Preludes will have access to the existing 16 chapters, including story quests, crafting, character customization, weapon progression, and cooperative exploration. However, the November 6 opening remains an unfinished alpha rather than the game's full release. Access will be available exclusively through Digital Extremes' PC launcher, while the Steam version remains available for wishlisting without a confirmed release date.
Soulframe's transition into an open alpha represents an important milestone for Digital Extremes, particularly as the studio attempts to establish a distinct identity beyond Warframe. The introduction of environmental restoration mechanics is especially interesting because it connects player progression directly to changes in the game world, potentially making exploration feel more rewarding. Rideable wolves and expanded combat abilities add further depth, but the real challenge will be maintaining meaningful activities and balanced progression as the player population grows. Opening development to a wider audience should provide valuable feedback, especially as cooperative systems and the game's overall structure continue evolving.
Will you join Soulframe's free alpha on November 6, and are you more excited about riding Omen Wolves or exploring a fantasy world that changes through your actions?
