9 November 2012 | |
iTZKooPA
Months of speculation and rapidly declining subscription numbers finally led to Electronic Arts and BioWare announcing that Star Wars: The Old Republic would be converting to a free-to-play business model. Players were given tons of details on the conversion, beta access and numerous changes to the structure based on player feedback. But there was one question that was dodged with the skill of any of our finest politician, “When will the F2P launch happen?”
The wait is over. BioWare has stuck to its guns. TOR will make its re-launch before the year is out. In fact, much sooner than that. Come November 15, 2012 everyone on this planet will be able to play The Old Republic via the “free-to-play option.” The new option will launch internationally.
Don’t forget, TOR will retain a subscriber option, granting bonuses to those that routinely support development. In addition to monthly allotments, anyone with an account in good stand will receive whatever is displayed on their Cartel Coin Ledger and a one-time bonus of 250 Complimentary Cartel Coins. Former subscribers that reactivate before December 21 will earn themselves Complimentary Cartel Coins for each paid month prior to November 15.
Have additional questions? Check out the F2P FAQ.
31 July 2012 | |
iTZKooPA
It’s been discussed from here to the sun for a few months now, the idea of Star Wars: The Old Republic being taken to the free-to-play model. Electronic Arts and BioWare made it official moments ago, throwing up a new landing page to announce the change to the community.
A F2P TOR experience isn’t going to be too different from the former subscription experience. Players can hit level 50 and enjoy any of the eight classes. Some restrictions will apply, but can be overcome with a microtransaction. As with many subscription to F2P transitions, a subscription option will remain for those dedicated players. Subscribers will be given monthly stipends for the cash shop. Previous and returning subscribers will be given special rewards including a backpay of Cartel Coins and a Fan’s Choice item.
Currently undisclosed is if additional content will cost Cartel Coins or be available for players as it is released. From the looks of it, gameplay content will be included in all models. If you’re a new or returning player, any subscription before August 1, 2012 – that’s tomorrow! – will earn some perks. More information at the F2P FAQ.
The announcement included some teasers to upcoming content, including the new operation on Asation, Terror From Beyond, and the new PvP warzone, Ancient Hypergate.
[Update]
The full transition is expected to be completed for a November launch.
