There's been a lot of speculation that was largely wishful thinking, but it's been confirmed this morning: Lord of the Rings Online is going free-to-play.
Yes, you heard that right. "LOTRO will introduce Turbine's innovative new pricing model that allows players to download the game and play for free, purchase expansions, quest packs, items, and account services a la carte from the new LOTRO Store, or join the VIP program to get unlimited access to all of the game's content for one low price."
The news gets even better, as the offer is not restricted to Turbine players. The update will launch this fall across North America and Europe -- Codemasters will also be adopting the pricing structure.
The beta program for the new free-to-play model will launch June 16th, and anyone interested in participating can sign up on the LotRO site.
[Update] The Loyalty Rewards Program has been updated to reflect the upcoming free-to-play model.
[Update 2] We've caught up with Turbine and scored an interview with them, answering many of your burning questions!
Reader Comments (145)
Posted: Jun 7th 2010 6:17PM (Unverified) said
YAY! I love that game but never had the chance to actually get a membership. I'll definitely be playing.
Posted: Jun 15th 2010 9:18AM (Unverified) said
You ppl dont get it dont you? I am realy mad right now because i wanted to buy this game. Free isnt free it sound like free but with the lovely store this ll be worst. Lets see if the game costs 40$ right? and monthly subscribition 15$ that means for six months you ll pay 130$ yes that seems a lot but what will you pay if you buy every freaking day: potions, items, mounts and more ... i mean that is going to cost more than a monthly flee and you wont feel that you earned the things... that is going to suck ppl :S i mean especialy for ppl who subscribed a long time ago... The thing is that has to stop if other games continue like Lotro you ll see your self more in debt than paying a monthly fee. If they wanted to do a free game why wouldnt they do like Guild wars? Pay once and never after that only for expansions thats ok.Pls think about it
Posted: Jun 24th 2010 11:40PM (Unverified) said
Help:if any of you know LotRO activation code I need urgent
Posted: Jun 23rd 2010 7:24PM (Unverified) said
HELP: if anyone knows the activation code for LOTR we urgently need to be able to play LotRO
Posted: Jun 26th 2010 4:41AM BGExorcist said
They dont just sell content, but pots, xp boosts, stat boosts, items - swords etc. That is absolutely 100% selling of power, which is absolutely rediculous :). I dont see GW closing for being 1 time purchase, GW2 anyone?







