Everquest II Going Free to Play (F2P)

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Written by Exile

Sony Online Entertainment (SOE) has decided to take yet another step to lure its (loyal?) fanbase into its money-grab trap.

Following Turbine's steps, they have decided to change Everquest II (EQ II) revenue model in the same fashion the former development studio has done with Dungeons and Dragons Online and Lord of the Rings Online.

But SOE is not Turbine; and SOE has taken all due steps to make sure their hard earned reputation of screwing over their fanbase is clearly recognised when they announced this change.

So no - its not "in the same fashion" - when reading the fine print, it comes as no surprise to realise that the move is merely a resemblance of what Turbine has done. Nothing more.

In the official announcement, we learn that SOE is determined to "respect the player's wishes" when it comes to keeping them safe from Real Money Transfer (RMT) practices. Clearly, someone at SOE forgot that EQ II is already plagued with RMT items available to players through the Station Cash "market place". Personally, I can't remember the player's wishes being taken into consideration when they first dumped this crap on them.

So... SOE decided that it would be IN THEIR BEST INTEREST to open up a new server for the EQ II Extended (EQ II X) version of the game - the one to be Free to Play (F2P). Don't trouble yourself wondering if this came as a result of player feedback - it didn't - trust me.

Their hope, obviously, is that their new EQ II X server will emulate the success Turbine had when they took this road.

But what about those who want to remain in the original server?

Not to worry - if you are in the original server you can't expect it to grow any further.  It wasn't growing up to this point and you can be damn sure it won't after the new F2P server goes online. In fact, its decline might accelerate if people choose to opt for the F2P version. But SOE cares about you!!

So what can you do?

Pay $35 and move your character to the new server. "What?"- I hear you say. That's right. SOE wants you to essentially buy the game again.

You want to reach level 90 in the new server? SOE has a solution for that as well! - Pay $200 for your "Platinum" Membership and you are good to go; and don't forget to take a peek at the "new and exciting" RMT items they have in offer.

Sony Online Entertainment - Screwing customers since 2005. 

Enjoy!