It seems like a popular trend is developing within the MMO market, and it’s a trend that has been developing over the past few months. It seems like more and more MMO’s are going free-to-play, and that’s what the trend is. This time the victim is EverQuest II an MMO in, which has seen its popularity falter in the last few years. This decision however is following a plan layed out by Sony Online Entertainment to continue its transition away from the subscription model. They have recently done this with DC Universe Online.
In a letter to fans, executive producer Dave Georgeson outlined why EQ2 is going F2P, and what the new payment structure will be. Georgeson explains: “We believe the key to meeting your expectations is to provide more flexibility and to deliver what you want when you want it, whether it’s basic game content, full subscription access to the game, or something in-between. So in early December we’re going to change things to be ‘Free to Play. Your Way.'”
To see what the new scale will look like take a look at this chart posted here, but for the main points of the new model look below. For anything tech or gaming related stay tuned to The Game Fanatics.
- Gold membership will cost $15 per month and provide full access to all races and classes, as well as seven character slots. Basically, it’s the same deal subscribers have now.
- Silver membership costs $5 per month. Silver members are limited to four characters, and may only gain spells up to the Expert tier.
- Free member are limited to two characters and Adept-tier spells.
- Both Silver and Free users are limited to four races and eight classes, and have restrictions on the equipment grades they may access.
