The massively multiplayer online role-playing scene has changed completely over the last several years. While the genre was originally dominated by subscription-based models like Everquest and World of Warcraft, the free-to-play model has exploded in an industry that's paying less and less for games. Games like The Secret World and Tera Online began as subscription-based games, only to shift away from required subscriptions in favor of the free-to-play model. Guild Wars 2 was the poster child for free-to-play upon release, and while the game never required a subscription, it has always required a one-time retail purchase to play.
Starting on Sep. 25, for one week, that final purchase disappears. Guild Wars 2 will be completely free-to-play; no initial purchase, no subscription required. Players can start an account or use a previously-existing trial membership to play, and for one week, access everything the game has to offer without paying a cent.
Guild Wars 2 has received universal acclaim since its release, with Time naming it as 2012's game of the year. Critics have praised the game's story and design, and commended the game for updating typically MMORPG tropes. In line with MMORPG traditions, developer ArenaNet has continued to update in the two years since launch, with the latest content update The Dragon's Reach: Part 1 being released on July 29.
Free trials are nothing new to MMORPGs, but the formats have changed dramatically since the genre's early years. Since the advent of the free-to-play model, different games have employed different tactics. The Secret World is free-to-play up until the expansion content begins, while industry leader World of Warcraft is free until players hit Level 20. Guild Wars 2 has always used timed trials, and has remained consistent in its pricing while its contemporaries continue to change their price structure.
Starting on Sep. 25 and lasting until Oct. 1, Guild Wars 2 will opens its doors to everyone. Simply create an account on the official site, download the game's client and enjoy.
For those looking for the full version of Guild Wars 2, the game can be bought from the official store for $49.