Warframes Open World: A Guide to the Plains of Eidolon

Warframe, Digital Extremes' free-to-play sensation, stands as a vibrant testament to the evolution of online multiplayer games. Its elaborate blend of fast-paced action, complex lore, and ever-expanding content makes it a universe that both newcomers and pros can lose themselves in for hundreds of hours. One of its most revolutionary expansions, The Plains of Eidolon, introduced players to Warframe's first open-world experience-a breathtaking, ever-changing landscape waiting to be explored, mastered, and conquered.

Understanding Bounties

At the heart of the Plains of Eidolon are the bounties, missions handed out by the stoic and always busy Konzu at Cetus, the gateway between the bustling activity of players and the untamed wilderness of the plains. These bounties range from liberating captured Grineer camps, sabotaging their machinery, rescuing Ostron hostages, or slaying the ghastly specters that haunt the area at night.

Successfully completing these tasks rewards players with reputation points for the Ostron faction, crafting materials, and sometimes blueprint parts for new Warframes or weapons. Yet, the real oppose and allure lie not just in accomplishing these tasks but doing so under the pressure of the Plains’ day-night cycle, where each phase ushers in its own set of dangers and opportunities.

Bounties are categorized by difficulty levels, signifying the enemy level range players will face. It's advisable for greenhorns to start with low-difficulty bounties and gradually ascend as their arsenal and mastery of the game expand. Participation in these pursuits not only hones one's combat skills but also provides indispensable resources for one of Warframe's most enthralling activities: Eidolon hunting.

Eidolon Hunting 101

When night falls on the Plains of Eidolon, the towering spectral giants known as Eidolons roam freely, presenting one of the most formidable challenges and lucrative endeavors in the game. Hunting Eidolons is an activity designed for coordinated groups, comprising of players well-versed in their Warframe’s abilities and equipped with specialized weapons and equipment.

To engage in this nocturnal hunt, one must first acquire an Operator and an Amp from The Quills, an enigmatic faction residing in Cetus. This initial foray sets the stage for battling the Teralyst, and its more formidable variants, the Gantulyst and Hydrolyst, each demanding a higher caliber of teamwork and plan.

The key to success in Eidolon hunting lies in the synergy of the team's Warframes, their roles-be it damage, healing, or support-and their proficiency in using Void energy to disrupt the Eidolon’s defenses. Weapons, particularly those modded for radiation damage, play a crucial role in breaching the behemoth’s armor.

Rewards for vanquishing these colossal foes include rare and valuable crafting materials, Quill reputation points, and Arcanes-powerful refinements for your Warframe and gear. Mastery of Eidolon hunting is not only a rite of passage in Warframe but a gateway to some of the game’s most potent upgrades.

Fishing, Mining, and Conservation

Amidst the adrenaline-fueled pursuits on the Plains lies a more serene yet equally rewarding suite of activities: fishing, mining, and conservation. Each offers not just a reprieve from the ceaseless battle but also essential resources for crafting, trading, and completing Cetus' residents' requests.

Fishing in the Plains requires a spear, purchasable from Fisher Hai-Luk in Cetus. It's not just about casting the line and waiting; different times of day and weather conditions affect the types of fish available, and each species has its preferences for bait. Mastery of fishing ensures a steady supply of crafting materials and standing with the Ostron faction.

Mining is facilitated by a cutter, available from Old Man Suumbaat. Roaming the Plains with this tool allows players to extract valuable ores and gems from rock faces. Much like fishing, mining is a nuanced activity. Rare minerals require a steadier hand and a keen eye, contributing to crafting and trading within the game's economy.

The introduction of conservation with the Fortuna update added yet another layer to the Plains' ecosystem. Players can track, tranquilize, and rescue the indigenous fauna, contributing to the preservation of the Plains’ natural beauty while earning standing with The Quills and special conservation-themed rewards.

Building Your Own Zaw

The weapon-smiths of Cetus provide Tenno with the unique opportunity to construct their own Zaws-modular melee weapons that can be customized for various combat situations. The process involves selecting a strike (blade), grip, and link (counterweight), each affecting the weapon's speed, damage, and special properties.

Creating the perfect Zaw demands not just resources and standing with the Ostrons but also a extreme understanding of one's personal combat preferences. The right combination can result in a weapon that far surpasses standard arsenal options, especially when further enhanced with mods and Arcanes. Moreover, an expertly crafted Zaw carries the signature of its creator, a testament to their skill and creativity.

The Quills and Amp Building

The Quills, secluded protectors of Cetus’ secrets and guardians of the Plains, offer Warframes the means to transcend their physical limitations through the use of Operators and Amps. Amps, in particular, are pivotal for those who wish to engage in Eidolon hunting, as they amplify the Operator's Void energy attacks, critical for breaking through an Eidolon's defenses.

To gain the trust of The Quills and access their wares, one must prove their mettle by collecting Sentient cores from the remains of Eidolons or smaller Sentient scouts that appear throughout the Plains. These cores serve as currency and a measure of one’s dedication to protecting Cetus and its denizens.

Building an Amp involves selecting a Prism, Scaffold, and Brace-each component determining the Amp's range, power, and additional attributes. Like Zaws, the process is deeply personal, allowing Tenno to create a tool that complements their combat style and fulfills their strategic needs in the field.

Journeying Through the Plains

The Plains of Eidolon represent Warframe's ambitious leap into the open-world genre, blending its signature kinetic combat with a vast landscape ripe for exploration, battle, and discovery. From the adrenaline rush of an Eidolon hunt to the tranquility of fishing under the moonlight, the Plains offer myriad experiences that reflect the diverse play styles and interests of the Warframe community.

Engaging in bounties hones combat prowess and deepens alliances with Cetus' inhabitants. Eidolon hunting fosters teamwork and technique, demanding a high level of coordination and skill. Meanwhile, fishing, mining, and conservation offer a contemplative counterpoint to the ceaseless conflict, emphasizing the importance of balance and preservation.

Crafting a personal Zaw or Amp is a rite of passage, a chance to leave one's mark on the game, while meandering the intricacies of The Quills deepens the connection to Warframe’s expansive lore and universe. Each component of the Plains of Eidolon contributes to a rich fabric of experiences, making it more than just a destination within Warframe-it's a living, breathing entity that continues to evolve and enchant.

As players master the vast array of challenges and opportunities that the Plains of Eidolon offer, they not only enhance their prowess but also contribute to the ever-unfolding saga of Warframe. The Plains are not just a testament to the game's evolution-they're a beacon for its future, promising even greater adventures and mysteries lying in wait, just beyond the horizon.