DC Universe Online going free-to-play

DC Universe Online, Sony Online Entertainment’s superhero-themed MMO, has joined the ranks of MMOs to ditch the once-standard subscription model in favor of the free-to-play model that’s all the rage nowadays.

Starting in October, both PC and PlayStation 3 users will be able to download the DC Universe client and play the game free of charge.

Naturally, though, Sony would like for you to fork over a little cash. To incentivize you to do so, SOE will be offering up a “Premium” title for anyone who spends $5 or more in microtransactions. Premium users will be awarded extra character slots, additional inventory space, and other yet-unannounced perks.

If the extra inventory space awarded from your Premium title isn’t enough, you’ll also be able to upgrade to “Legendary” status by committing to a $14.99 a month fee. In addition to extra inventory space, you’ll further expand your available character slots and other also-yet-unannounced goodies.

In the case of most other subscription-based MMOs that made the switch recently, it’d be safe to assume that most, if not all, were forced to make the switch due to a decline (or an outright lack) in subscribers. Apparently that isn’t the case for DC Universe Online.

“This is the right business model,” Sony Online Entertainment executive producer Lorin Jameson told IGN. “If I can be honest, the game ended up costing a lot more than we thought it would, and this was our preferred business model from day one.”

via Destructoid