My love for tabletop role-playing games is no secret. Whether I’m failing miserably in Vampire: The Masquerade or causing playful havoc with Mage Hand in Dungeons and Dragons, TTRPGs are a huge part of my life. That’s why I was thrilled when Digital Extremes announced at TennoCon 2025 that Warframe would be collaborating with Paizo on a Starfinder one-shot module, set in the intriguing 1999 universe. This adventure, named Operation Orias, launched just in time for Halloween, and it even comes with some incredibly cool dice that I simply had to add to my collection!
For those unfamiliar with Starfinder (or its fantasy counterpart, Pathfinder), both systems are built upon the Dungeons and Dragons’ third edition framework, utilizing the classic D20 dice roll system familiar from games like Baldur’s Gate 3. While Pathfinder offers a high-fantasy experience, Starfinder is distinctly a space-themed game, though it still incorporates elements of magic. Additionally, a new virtual adaptation, Starfinder: Afterlight, is anticipated in 2026.
This collaboration between Warframe and Starfinder is a natural fit. Digital Extremes’ expansive MMO is primarily set in space, with additions like the Duviri Paradox even introducing a fantasy twist. However, Operation Orias specifically takes us to Warframe’s 1999 universe – a gritty, Metal Gear Solid-esque setting that captured my imagination years ago. Players get to embody one of four Protoframes, humans infected with the very virus that spawns Warframes, in this concise, thrilling one-shot adventure.
The module’s reveal included a video showcasing the intense action and distinct atmosphere of Operation Orias, giving players a glimpse into the Protoframes’ combat capabilities and the unique feel of the 1999 universe.
The plot of Operation Orias is straightforward: the Corpus faction is stirring up trouble, and it’s up to you to intervene. They’ve captured Infested Chargers, dog-like creatures infected with a lethal virus, with the aim of developing a new toxin-resistant medicine from their tissues. Such a breakthrough would grant the Corpus a significant advantage in combat and considerable wealth. Your mission, as part of The Hex, is to put a stop to their nefarious plans.
Players can select from four distinct Protoframe “classes”: Amir, designed for hit-and-run tactics; Aoi, who excels in communication and situational awareness; Arthur, the reckless poster-boy wielding a longsword; and Lettie, the crucial medic supporting her allies. While these are the pre-defined characters for Operation Orias, community developer Connor Neumann expressed his hope that players will collaborate with their Dungeon Master to craft and embody their own unique Protoframes within any desired setting.
Crucially, as a Warframe module, it needed to capture the game’s signature fast-paced, relentless action. A review of the rulebook (provided by Digital Extremes) confirms that every character can perform a Bullet Jump, allowing them to leap 25 feet before freefalling. Multiple variations of the iconic Energy Shield also appear. These mechanics are easily transferable to custom Protoframes, meaning players can get creative with their DM to adapt existing in-game Warframe abilities and bring their own unique characters to life in the tabletop setting.
As an avid D&D player, I haven’t yet explored Starfinder, but Operation Orias presents the ideal opportunity. The module is available for purchase; physical copies are priced at $12.99, while the PDF version costs $8.99. Be aware that physical editions are limited to just 2,000 prints. Each purchase also includes a unique Starfinder-themed glyph.
And there’s more! For fellow dice collectors, a stunning seven-piece dice set is available. It includes all the standard D&D dice along with a themed Warframe tray, all for $39.99 / £31. (Yes, I can confirm the UK price because they’re currently residing in my shopping cart!)
If Operation Orias has you eager to dive back into the Origin System, make sure to check for active Warframe codes to snag some free cosmetics. Or, if your heart lies more with Dungeons and Dragons, we’ve got you covered with a comprehensive list of the best D&D games available.
What are your favorite tabletop RPGs? We’d love to hear your fun stories!