The surge in the popularity of the free-to-play structure has perhaps prompted BioWare and LucasArts to deploy the same option for its much acclaimed MMORPG, Star Wars: The Old Republic. Planned to come into effect during the fall of 2012, this freemium platform will grant gamers access to all eight Star Wars character class storylines till they reach level 50, but with ‘certain restrictions.’
And it’s these restrictions which will be available to be cleared via micro-transactions. For players who don’t wish to indulge in this free-to-play model, the standard subscription style will still be retained. These gamers will be provided with Cartel Coins (soon to be introduced in-game currency) which can be utilized by them to purchase gear and other upgrades. Those who’re currently subscribing to the game as well as those who will do so before it hits free-to-play status will receive special rewards when the transition is made.
“Since launch, we’ve been listening to feedback from our fans and adding new content and refining The Old Republic at a breakneck pace,” stated Jeff Hickman, Executive Producer of Star Wars: The Old Republic. “We believe we are in a position to help improve the service even more, not only by continuing to add new content, but also by expanding the game to many more Star Wars fans, increasing the populations on worlds and the vibrancy of the community.”
BioWare and LucasArts have also announced that the price of Star Wars: The Old Republic will be seen dropping down to 14.99 USD (approx. Rs. 835) this August. With this purchase, gamers will receive one month’s worth of free subscription. The frequency of game content updates will be increased claimed the developer, while also revealing that current subscribers will qualify for access to special in-game items. And this offer will even apply to former players who re-activate now.
Star Wars: The Old Republic will be going free-to-play this fall, but a definite date for the same is yet to be disclosed.