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Long-running MMO EverQuest is finally adopting a free-to-play model after 14 years as a subscription-based title.
Writing in a letter to the EQ community, producer Thom Terrazas announced the news, explaining the change is due to the major shifts in the industry in the last few years.
“EverQuest players are some of the most loyal, long-standing players of any MMO in existence. With the gaming landscape changing every day, we want to ensure we continue to evolve the game to keep players engaged and bring in even more new players to further expand the community. With no up-front costs or required membership, we might see a new player or two along the way, and more people is always a good thing!”
The game will now be split into three tiers: Free, Silver for $5.99 per month, and Gold for $14.99 per month. The former two tiers in the list will include some restrictions on what is actually available to users, however those who decide to pay a recurring subscription will be granted bonuses and receive 500 Station Cash per month as long as they stay on an auto-renew payment plan.
Additionally users can celebrate the game’s birthday March 16, and will be given a Welcome Pack of unique items.
EverQuest’s sequel, EverQuest II went free-to-play in December and has since seen a 40 per cent increase in log-ins.
