As rumoured last month, EA and Bioware have announced that their Star Wars MMO game The Old Republic will soon follow a free-to-play model for gamers. This new model will allow players to level their characters up to level 50 for free, but with certain restrictions on access to new content and advanced player features within the game.
The Shift to Free-to-Play
The shift from a subscription-based MMO to a free-to-play game has been prompted by a significant 25 percent decrease in the player base of The Old Republic. This decline in active players has led EA and Bioware to reconsider their business model to attract more gamers. Matthew Bromberg, GM of BioWare Austin, explains in the EA and Bioware press release:
“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,” Bromberg stated. “Since launch, we’ve been listening to feedback from our fans and adding new content and refining The Old Republic at a breakneck pace,” added executive producer Jeff Hickman. “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.”
Incentives and Future Plans
As an extra incentive, the price of the game will also decrease to $15, which will include a month of free subscription. This move is designed to make the game more accessible to a broader audience and to encourage new players to join the community.
The free-to-play model will come with certain limitations. While players can level up to 50 without any cost, access to new content and advanced features will require a subscription or individual purchases. This hybrid model aims to balance between attracting new players and generating revenue from dedicated fans who are willing to pay for additional content and features.
The developers have also promised to continue adding new content at a rapid pace. This includes new storylines, missions, and in-game events that will keep the game fresh and engaging for both new and existing players. The goal is to create a vibrant and active community that will enhance the overall gaming experience.
Examples of Free-to-Play Success
The decision to switch to a free-to-play model is not unprecedented in the gaming industry. Several other MMOs have successfully transitioned to this model, resulting in increased player bases and revenue. For instance, games like “Star Wars: The Old Republic” have seen significant success after making similar transitions. These examples provide a hopeful outlook for the future of The Old Republic.
Community and Player Feedback
Player feedback has been a crucial factor in this decision. Since the game’s launch, the developers have been actively listening to the community and making adjustments based on their input. This ongoing dialogue between the developers and the players is expected to continue, ensuring that the game evolves in a way that meets the needs and expectations of its community.
The shift to a free-to-play model for The Old Republic represents a significant change in strategy for EA and Bioware. By lowering the barrier to entry and offering flexible options for players, they hope to attract a larger and more diverse player base. The ongoing commitment to adding new content and listening to player feedback will be essential in maintaining the game’s success and ensuring a vibrant and active community.
Source: Lazy Gamer
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