What Warframe Should I Build First? A Comprehensive Guide for New Players
Choosing your first Warframe to build can feel like a big decision in the sprawling universe of Warframe. With over 40 unique options, each offering a different playstyle and skillset, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The good news? There’s a clear frontrunner for beginners, and that’s Rhino.
Rhino is the ideal first Warframe to build because he’s accessible, durable, and effective. His component blueprints are obtainable on Venus, the second planet in the Star Chart. The final resource needed for his construction, Plastids, are found on Phobos, meaning you won’t have to delve too far into the game’s progression to complete him. Beyond ease of acquisition, Rhino offers a robust playstyle that’s perfect for learning the ropes of Warframe. His abilities are straightforward yet powerful: Rhino Charge for mobility, Iron Skin for damage reduction, Roar for damage buff, and Rhino Stomp for crowd control. These skills make Rhino a powerhouse that can withstand a beating and deal out serious damage – essential qualities for new players navigating the game’s initial challenges.
Why Rhino is the Top Choice
Ease of Acquisition
As mentioned, Rhino’s components drop from The Jackal, the boss on Venus. This encounter is easily accessible early in the game, and the boss fight is relatively straightforward, even for new players. You’ll be able to farm the blueprints for Rhino efficiently, making the whole process feel rewarding and achievable. The Plastids required are accessible by completing missions on Phobos, which should be one of the first areas you explore after Venus.
Beginner-Friendly Playstyle
Rhino’s abilities are easy to understand and use, making him a forgiving option for players still learning the game’s mechanics. His Iron Skin is a massive damage reduction buff that essentially provides invulnerability while active. This makes him incredibly durable and lets players focus on other aspects of combat and exploration without the constant fear of being easily downed. Rhino Charge provides excellent mobility and allows players to quickly engage enemies or traverse levels. His damage buff, Roar, allows you and allies to deal greater damage and his Rhino Stomp is one of the strongest forms of crowd control in the early game.
Versatile Role
While many frames have specific roles, Rhino is a versatile character capable of both offensive and defensive gameplay. This adaptability is crucial for players who are still experimenting with different playstyles and weapon types. He can comfortably take the lead on missions, provide support through buffs, and tank damage for the team or when playing solo. He’s a valuable asset in almost any scenario.
Alternatives to Rhino (and Why They Aren’t First-Build Choices)
While Rhino is the best first Warframe to build, you might be curious about other early options. Here are some frames often mentioned for beginners:
- Excalibur: While one of the starter frames and often recommended for beginners, Excalibur’s playstyle is more reliant on a strong understanding of movement and melee combat. Players who haven’t yet grasped the finer points of combat can struggle.
- Mag: Mag is another starter frame. While she has powerful abilities, she is highly reliant on Mods, making her less effective for new players who do not yet have a plethora of mods available to them.
- Volt: The last of the starting trio, Volt, needs player to understand where to place his defenses. He’s also more complex in the utilization of his abilities, making him less suitable for those just starting.
Each of these options are viable, but Rhino’s ease of acquisition and durable toolkit make him a clear winner for that initial build.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the 3 starting Warframes in Warframe?
The three starting Warframes you can choose from when first creating your account are Excalibur, Mag, and Volt. Each offers a distinct play style and the choice can impact your early gameplay experience.
2. Is Excalibur a good Warframe for beginners?
Excalibur is often recommended but isn’t necessarily the best for beginners. He’s mobile and melee-focused, which can be more challenging for new players compared to the more forgiving durability of Rhino.
3. What is the best Warframe for beginners on Reddit?
On Reddit, Rhino is frequently mentioned as the best Warframe for beginners due to his ease of use and durability. Mag and Volt are also discussed but usually with caveats about mod dependency.
4. What resources are required to build Rhino?
To build Rhino, you’ll need the component blueprints (Chassis, Systems, and Neuroptics) from The Jackal boss on Venus, as well as resources like Alloy Plate, Ferrite, Polymer Bundle, and Plastids. Plastids can be found on Phobos.
5. Can you start Warframe over?
No, it is not possible to reset your Warframe account. If you want to completely clear your data, you must submit a deletion request under GDPR.
6. What are Mods, and why are they important?
Mods are upgrade cards that enhance your Warframe’s and weapon’s stats, modify abilities, and add new effects. They are crucial for progressing in Warframe, and it’s essential to learn how to collect and use them efficiently.
7. Is Warframe solo friendly?
Yes, Warframe is entirely solo-friendly. All content can be done solo, although some activities, such as Tridolon hunts, are more efficient with a group.
8. What is the Star Chart?
The Star Chart is the primary way to access missions and progress through the game. It’s a network of planets, each with their own locations, resources, and challenges to overcome.
9. Where should I go first in Warframe?
After the tutorial, the Star Chart on your Orbiter is your main hub. You’ll begin on Earth and then progress to other planets like Venus, Mars, and more.
10. What is the hardest Warframe to play?
Warframes like Equinox, Harrow, and Ivara are considered some of the most challenging to play due to their complex mechanics and mod requirements.
11. When should I start trading in Warframe?
You can start trading once you reach Mastery Rank 2. To achieve this, you must level up your weapons and Warframes. You’ll also need to have a Dojo to trade in.
12. What are some good beginner secondary weapons?
Atomos, Lex, and Lato are some of the better beginner secondary weapons in Warframe. Focus more on primary weapons until you have a larger selection of weapons available.
13. Is Warframe still being updated?
Yes, Warframe is actively developed and continues to receive frequent updates and new content. The game has a large, active player base.
14. What is the best Warframe for solo play?
While many Warframes can handle solo play, Loki Prime, Trinity Prime, Valkyr Prime, Nekros Prime, and Rhino Prime are often recommended for their utility and survivability. Rhino, is an excellent choice that is easier to access for beginners.
15. Is it worth it to start Warframe?
Absolutely! Warframe is a free-to-play game with a massive amount of content, a unique community, and a deep level of customization. It is 100% worth your time, especially considering the price (free!).
Conclusion
Rhino is the most sensible choice for your first built Warframe. His ease of acquisition, beginner-friendly playstyle, and versatility make him a powerful asset for new players. He will allow you to learn the game at your own pace, without the frustration of constant defeats. Once you have a good grasp on the game, you can then focus on obtaining the vast array of other frames, each of which offers its own unique experience. Happy gaming, Tenno!