EA Makes Star Wars: The Old Republic Free-to-Play!
BioWare, a team under EA commonly known for their groundbreaking RPGs like Mass Effect and Jade Empire, just announced that their extremely popular MMORPG title Star Wars: The Old Republic is set to go Free-to-Play in the fall!
BioWare alongside LucasArts released Star Wars: The Old Republic just last year on PC and has been ever improving on the title ever since. That said, the game has been losing subs as of late. The Free-to-Play model should this game up to people who may have never picked up an MMO before.
“Players want flexibility and choice. The subscription-only model presented a major barrier for a lot of people who wanted to become part of The Old Republic universe,” said Matthew Bromberg, GM of BioWare Austin.”
Giving players the option on whether or not to pay has shown successful for many games this year (DCU Online being one of them). Beginning in the fall players are given two options of play:
• Subscription — A service designed for players who want unrestricted access to all the game features via ongoing subscription or by redeeming a Game Time Card. In addition to gaining access to all game content as our current subscribers do now, subscribers will receive ongoing monthly grants of Cartel Coins, the new virtual currency that will be introduced later this fall. Cartel Coins can be used to purchase valuable in-game items including customizable gear and convenience features that will enhance the game play experience.
• Free-To-Play — The first 50 levels will be Free-to-Play, with restrictions on access to new content and advanced player features. Some restrictions can be “unlocked” with Cartel Coins.
Not to worry players who already have the game, you will be provided the same perks as the new players but you will be heavily rewarded for subscribing. I know that the moment this happens, I plan on trying the game for myself. If it is awesome as so many say, BioWare will easily clean my wallet out for a subscription and I will gladly oblige!
Star Wars: The Old Republic will go on sale in August for $14.99, including one-month of free subscription. Soon after that, the Free-to-Play option will be added.
