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Anarchy Online to be Subscription Free

Posted by Zonk on from the free-leets-for-everyone dept.

According to the offial site, Anarchy Online is removing fees for new users who subscribe to the game between the 15th of December 2004 and the 15th of January 2005. From the release: "We feel very confident in the unique features and heralded qualities of our game, and are now openly inviting everyone playing MMO's to find out what Anarchy Online is all about, completely free of commitment" said Ole Schreiner, Project Director for Anarchy Online. "Not only can we boast of a fantastic game which has been expanding for years, we are also constantly adding exciting new content, progressively making the ultimate sci-fi MMORPG even better." Commentary on the Zen of Design blog.

2 of 74 comments (clear)

  1. It's all about the expansion packs. by borkus · · Score: 3, Informative
    After reading the fine print at the bottom of the page closely, I noticed the following -
    The free version does not include access to any of the three expansion packs. Should you wish to upgrade to any of the expansion packs monthly subscription and client fees will be added.
    So if you buy an expansion pack, you end up paying a monthly fee as well. This gives them a way to sell their remaining expansion packs without having to manufacture and distribute copies of the core game. In fact, the core game doesn't seem to be in stock anywhere.
  2. The fine print: by fearanddread · · Score: 3, Informative
    "*The offer is only valid if you sign up a new Anarchy Online account between the 15th of December 2004 and 15th of January 2005. You can play free of charge until 1/1 2006. Should Funcom deem that a too high-increase in server load or other unforeseen events will lessen the experience for existing players the offer will be terminated at our discretion. The free version does not include access to any of the three expansion packs. Should you wish to upgrade to any of the expansion packs monthly subscription and client fees will be added."

    Just the basic game with no expansions. Sounds like you might have to pay more money if you want to use the expansions. Guess they feel they finally have a product that people will want to stay and play if given the chance.

    Very tempting even without the expansions.