TennoCon 2026 reveals Warframe Tau expansion and Soulframe updates
Digital Extremes announced the Tau expansion for Warframe, introducing a new solar system and Warframe, while Soulframe received updates to its fable quests.
TennoCon 2026, the annual fan event for Digital Extremes’ popular online action RPGs Warframe and Soulframe, delivered a slate of major updates and expansions that promise to reshape both games. The event, held in London, Ontario, showcased the long-awaited Tau expansion for Warframe and significant advancements for Soulframe, including a darker narrative path and new gameplay mechanics.
The centerpiece of the event was the reveal of Warframe’s Tau expansion, described by creative director Rebecca Ford as the “biggest shift” in the game’s 13-year history. Launching later in 2026, Tau introduces a new solar system filled with uncharted planets, alien cities, and a fresh narrative arc. The expansion’s primary setting, the cyberpunk-inspired city of Fornax, blends open-ended exploration with procedurally generated zones. Players will navigate this lawless hub, encountering new enemy factions like the Fornax Drowners and a mysterious new Warframe named Brysko. Voiced by Critical Role’s Matt Mercer, Brysko is a self-aware, noir-inspired Chimera Warframe who operates as a gunslinger, using a mix of melee combat and a unique card game called Portau, inspired by poker. The expansion also includes a new Orokin Vessel, a customizable ship that will serve as a gateway to the Tau system.
Beyond Tau, Warframe players will see a series of updates leading up to its release. The Iceblade of Narin, a fall 2026 story quest, will introduce a new ice-elemental Warframe and reworks for existing characters like Qorvex and Banshee. The game’s Nightwave battle pass will also receive a 1999-themed overhaul called Amir’s Shockwave, featuring a new song, “Running Late,” and a pen-and-paper RPG called Fables & Frontiers. Additionally, the Excalibur Warframe will appear in Fortnite as an exclusive skin, marking a crossover between the two games.
Soulframe, Digital Extremes’ high-fantasy RPG still in alpha, received its own set of updates. The most anticipated was the release of the Warsongs fable quest, which introduces the Vadagar Pact—a darkside progression path that allows players to embrace corruption. The questline, set for release this fall, features a new weapon, the Coiled Dawn, and a narrative deepening the origins of the player’s character. Actors Ben Starr and Jennifer English joined the cast as recurring antagonists and allies, expanding the game’s story. Soulframe also announced new quality-of-life features, including player mounts (such as wolves) and a “vegan fishing” mini-game, which lets players capture fish to gather information about the Alca region.
The event also highlighted community-driven development. Soulframe’s senior community manager emphasized the game’s collaborative approach, noting that player feedback has shaped its evolution. Access to Soulframe Preludes, the game’s early access phase, was expanded, with sign-ups closing on July 12. Meanwhile, Warframe’s TennoCon 2026 recap underscored the game’s ongoing commitment to innovation, with plans for a fall 2026 update that includes a new Prime Access release, a rework for Qorvex, and a Deluxe Collection for Banshee.
Both games also benefited from promotional tie-ins and charity initiatives. TennoCon 2026 featured giveaways of merchandise and gaming gear, with proceeds supporting programs like Sistema Toronto and London Cares. The event’s success marked a turning point for Digital Extremes, as the studio continues to balance expansive world-building with player engagement.
