Star Wars: The Old Republic Becomes Free to Play

EA and BioWare have announced that hugely successful MMO Star Wars: The Old Republic will have a free to play option in the autumn. This new option does allow players to access all eight character class stories and allow  access to the first 50 levels, although there will be some restrictions in regards to more advanced abilities and overall content. Matthew Bromberg General Manager of BioWare Austin, Texas claims that “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.”

Alongside this we will also see a cut price in the full version of the game as EA annouce a new $14.99 price tag (nearly £10 for you and me) in a bid to attract new players. This all launches later this month and also comes with a month’s free subscription. EA’s press release suggest that the new free-to-play option, “will open up the critically-acclaimed MMO from BioWare and LucasArts to millions of additional Star Wars fans and gamers worldwide.”

Also in the press release are details as to how current users will also benefit from this decision:

Current and former players will also find additional benefits as part of this program. BioWare will be increasing the frequency of game content updates, with the first of many new releases coming in August. In addition, current subscribers will receive Cartel Coin grants and qualify for access to special in-game items. Even former players who re-activate now will qualify for special benefits. To learn more about these rewards, please visit www.StarWarstheOldRepublic.com/FREE.

Soon more players will flock to The Old Republic universe playing as one of the eight iconic Star Wars characters; Jedi Knight, Jedi Consular, Smuggler, Trooper, Sith Warrior, Sith Inquisitor, Bounty Hunter and Imperial Agent. What you decide to do with them is another matter.