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
