Digital Extremes has revealed more details about Warframe’s newest arrival: a rock-star-themed Warframe named “Temple.” Set to debut on March 19 alongside the game’s musical expansion, Warframe 1999: Techrot Encore, Temple promises a flamboyant design, an infested guitar that doubles as a weapon, and a visual style inspired in part by David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust.
A Rockstar Vision Years in the Making
Temple’s design stemmed from off-hours sketches by Warframe Weapon Art Lead Kaz Adams, who had been experimenting with the idea of a rock ‘n’ roll Warframe since 2018. Early concepts featured a surplus of detail—ranging from a top-hat motif to puppeteer-themed ball joints—before the creative team dialed back the design to focus on its music-infused core.
“This was one of the most self-indulgent, coolest sets of things I could put into a Warframe,” Adams said. “Once we started ideating for Warframe 1999, we knew there’d be a boy band element. I just thought, can we have a rock ‘n’ roll character too?”
From Slash to Bowie
Adams initially pitched ideas inspired by ’80s rock icons, with direct references to legendary guitarist Slash. However, feedback from Warframe co-creator Steve Sinclair prompted the addition of infested elements and a guitar that could transform into a firearm.
Adams then shifted to a ’70s rock aesthetic, channeling Ziggy Stardust and blending it with unique, organic design cues. One major turning point was the suggestion to incorporate more dragonfruit-like spikes on Temple’s limbs, lending the character’s armor a vibrantly exotic flair.
An Infested Guitar With a Twist
Temple’s signature weapon stands out from typical in-game guitars thanks to its otherworldly design. Adams tried a variety of shapes and configurations, ultimately landing on an infested double-guitar reminiscent of outlandish real-world models.
“I see a lot of guitars in other games, and they all look like regular guitars,” Adams explained. “I wanted something truly out there—visually striking, grotesque, yet unmistakably rock ‘n’ roll.”
Ready to Rock the Origin System
Temple arrives just as Warframe 1999: Techrot Encore launches, bringing a new wave of music-themed content, a playable “boy band,” and fresh narrative hooks. Whether fans plan on shredding through enemy waves with an infested axe or simply want to groove on the battlefield, Temple appears set to deliver a loud—and unforgettably brash—experience.
Players can pick up Warframe’s 60th playable character, Temple, when the update goes live on March 19, for a fresh fusion of cosmic-infested horror and classic rock theatrics. For the full interview head over to VG247.
