Star Wars: The Old Republic going free to play
MMO from BioWare and LucasArts makes the crucial choice less than a year after launch
BioWare, a Label of Electronic Arts, announced today that it will be expanding the online game Star Wars: The Old Republic by adding a new Free-to-Play option this fall.
“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.
Subscription is a service designed for players who want unrestricted access to all the game features via ongoing subscription or by redeeming a Game Time Card. Subscribers will also 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.
The first 50 levels will now be Free-to-Play, with restrictions on access to new content and advanced player features. Some restrictions can be “unlocked” with Cartel Coins.
The MMO will also go on sale in August for $14.99 USD, including one-month of free subscription.
Star Wars: The Old Republic is estimated to have cost between $150 million and $200 million to develop. It was released less than a year ago, in December 2011 for Windows PC. The title requires EA's online Origin service to play.
“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.
Subscription is a service designed for players who want unrestricted access to all the game features via ongoing subscription or by redeeming a Game Time Card. Subscribers will also 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.
The first 50 levels will now be Free-to-Play, with restrictions on access to new content and advanced player features. Some restrictions can be “unlocked” with Cartel Coins.
The MMO will also go on sale in August for $14.99 USD, including one-month of free subscription.
Star Wars: The Old Republic is estimated to have cost between $150 million and $200 million to develop. It was released less than a year ago, in December 2011 for Windows PC. The title requires EA's online Origin service to play.
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