SOE adds Everquest II free-to-play option

Sony Online Entertainment has announced that its flagship MMO, Everquest II, will be opened up as a free-to-play title, with optional upgrade purchases sitting alongside the traditional subscription business.

Called Everquest II Extended, the step has been taken because of the "evolution of the industry landscape," as more and more online titles opt for greater player choice.

"As the digital entertainment market evolves, SOE is focused on continued innovation in content delivery that best fit the needs of the growing consumer base," said president John Smedley. "Our goal with Extended is to offer players an alternative to our current subscription programme that gives them the option to choose a program that best fits their play style."

The Extended membership plan will sit across four levels, with Bronze being free - but with some restrictions, including cash, bag slots and spell tiers. Silver, which is a $10 one-time purchase, increases those options but still restricts some elements compared to Gold ($14.99 per month recurring subscription) and Platinum ($200 per year recurring subscription).

"The very nature of an MMO is change, and the decision to create Extended was fueled by evolution of the industry landscape," said EverQuest II producer David Georgeson. "By offering two services side by side we have given the power to our players to determine the programme that best fits their game play style."

The beta test for Everquest II Extended is set to begin on August 17.