1999 Developers Discuss Crafting a New Arcade-Style Minigame

Warframe is gearing up for a major update with the introduction of Warframe: 1999, which promises a substantial influx of fresh content to the game. Moreover, players can look forward to diving into a brand new minigame, Caliber Chicks 2.

This expansion takes players on a nostalgic journey to 1999, and the developers have gone to great lengths to encapsulate the essence of the era. Among the exciting new features is the Caliber Chicks 2 minigame, a long-awaited addition within the Warframe universe. Game Rant had the chance to chat with Warframe’s creative director Rebecca Ford and Caliber Chicks 2 design director Nic Cusworth to delve deeper into this immersive, retro-inspired arcade experience.

When queried about the motivation behind creating Caliber Chicks 2, Ford explained that the Höllvania Central Mall—a central hub in Warframe: 1999—needed an arcade to encapsulate the ’90s vibe. “We’ve explored the decade through music, fashion, and tech designs,” Ford elaborated, “and gaming was a must.” She highlighted the collaboration with Sumo Digital, whose expertise in diverse gameplay designs made them ideal partners for this nostalgic endeavor.

Cusworth shed light on the game’s scope, stating that the core loop mirrors classic arcade experiences, lasting about 15 minutes over three distinct and expansive levels. However, what makes it intriguing is its looping narrative—each new iteration introduces bizarre changes, significantly raising the stakes and difficulty levels.

Comparing Caliber Chicks 2 to previous minigames like Frame Fighter, Ford noted that while both provide fun diversions, Caliber Chicks offers a more complex, endless challenge, thanks to the resources and expertise of Sumo Digital. Cusworth added that the opportunity to create an arcade game for the 1999 update was one they eagerly embraced, and they took inspiration from games of that era to maintain authenticity.

As for whether Caliber Chicks 2 influences Warframe: 1999, Ford mentioned its role in bringing the mall hub to life and offering players a chance at topping global leaderboards. This attention to detail is designed to evoke nostalgia among players familiar with arcade culture.

Creating this minigame was a journey through time, with Cusworth elaborating on how they embraced the limitations of ’90s technology to deliver an authentic experience. Every aspect, from the graphics to the audio, was meticulously crafted to fit the period accurately.

Rewards await those who delve into Caliber Chicks 2, including unique glyphs, an emblem, and additional in-game tracks, enriching the broader Warframe experience without disrupting core progression.

While previously sighted arcade cabinets hinted at Caliber Chicks 2’s existence, Ford affirmed that it was part of their plans all along. Fans can also expect more surprises as Warframe continues to evolve in the future.

Finally, Ford highlighted that any future expansions for Caliber Chicks 2 depend wholly on community feedback. If players express a desire for more, the team is open to further developing this engaging side content. Meanwhile, Cusworth shared that while they loved creating the game, any decisions about its future will be guided by players’ reactions.