One of the more unique features of Firefall is that there are no character classes or levels per se. Instead, each player has one character that can purchase any of the following battleframes provided the player has the required resources:
Each of these battleframes has its own unique abilities, purpose, and associated technology licenses. In addition, battleframes have different models which are graduated into tiers, each model having slightly different abilities and and each tier more versatile and powerful than the previous tier. Note that there are multiple models of each battleframe per tier starting with tier 2. Each of the archetype battleframes is explained below.
Battleframes can also be customized with warpaint and patterns. The body suits underneath can also be customized with patterns. It is important to note that warpaint customizations are single use per battleframe and require the in-game currency Red Beans which can only be acquired by spending money. Bodysuit patterns are permanent once purchased and can be applied multiple times to multiple battleframes with no additional cost beyond the initial Red Bean purchase.
Dreadnaught
The Dreadnaught battleframe specializes in heavy armor, high hit points, and abilities that focus on protecting and shielding either themselves or their squad mates. The primary weapon for the dreadframe is the heavy machine gun. Secondary weapons include the assault rifle, shotgun, and sub-machine gun. Core abilities include Turrent Mode, the Thunderdome, and the Repulsor Blast. The tier 1 dreadframe special ability is Reactive Armor.
Assault
The Assault battleframe specializes in high damage, area of effect (AoE) damage, and mobility. The primary weapon for the assaultframe is the Plasma Cannon. Secondary weapons include the assault rifle, shotgun, and sub-machine gun. Core abilities include the Shockwave, the Afterburner, and Crater. The tier 1 assaultframe special ability is the Multi Cannon.
Recon
The Recon battleframe specializes in high, long range damage, stealth and mobility. The primary weapon for the reconframe is the sniper rifle. Secondary weapons include the assault rifle, shotgun, and sub-machine gun. Core abilities include Resonating Bolts, the Cryo Shot, and the Long Range Charge. The tier 1 reconframe special ability is the SIN Modulator.
Engineer
The Engineer battleframe specializes in squad support and entrenchment. The primary weapon for the engiframe is the Tesla Rifle. Secondary weapons include the assault rifle, shotgun, and sub-machine gun. Core abilities include the Quick Deploy Shield, the Short Circuit Mine, and the Multi Turrent. The tier 1 engiframe special ability is the Ability Drivebay which grants the engineer an extra ability slot. It is also important to note that the engineer battleframe is the only battleframe that gets the extra ability slot.
Biotech
The Biotech battleframe specializes in healing and poisons. The primary weapon for the bioframe is the Bio Needler. Secondary weapons include the grenade launcher, shotgun, and sub-machine gun. Core abilities include the Poison Trail, Healing Ball, and Healing Wave. The tier 1 bioframe special ability is Triage which allows the biotech to revive downed characters faster than normal.
