Lord of the Rings™ to become Free-To-Play from September 2010.
From The LOTRO™ email / websites:
Coming this autumn, we are proud to announce a major update that will make The Lord of the Rings Online™ (LOTRO) Free-to-Play for everyone. LOTRO will be introducing a new pricing model which allows new players to download the game and play for free. Everyone will be able to purchase expansions, quest packs, items, and account services a la carte from the new LOTRO Store, or join our VIP program to get unlimited access to all of the game’s content for one low price.
In addition to the new pricing model, the award winning story will be extended, a new region unveiled and much more!
LOTRO will offer players unlimited choice!
Lifetime Membership subscribers don't need to throw their toys out of the cot just yet...
From their FAQ:
VIP Info:I have a lifetime subscription to LOTRO. What will Free-to-Play mean for me?
(Last updated: 04-06-2010 01:10:00)
As a lifetime subscriber to LOTRO, you will keep all of your membership privileges and are automatically upgraded to VIP status. You will receive 500 Free Points every month like the other VIPs, but you do not have to pay a monthly fee since you are a lifetime member. All you have to do is keep playing the game and visit the LOTRO Store to spend your free Points. In addition to qualifying for the same rewards as standard subscribers, Lifetime members may also qualify for a special one-time Loyalty Reward of 1,000 Points.
Why should I become a VIP? What do I get that a Free player does not?
(Last updated: 02-06-2010 12:34:12)
As a VIP, you get full access to all of the game’s original content and features along with numerous special benefits, such as a higher number of character slots (5 per server), 20 slots of wardrobe storage for cosmetic clothing, full customer service access, priority login, 500 Free Points every month that you can redeem in the LOTRO Store, and much more, all detailed here. For a monthly fee, the VIP program offers the best value and the most options for players who like the convenience of having access to it all.
The Free-to-Play FAQ
Read more about the VIP/Premium/Free membership system here.
What are your views on it?
