We've known since May that Carbine Studios' MMORPG WildStar will be going to free-to-play this fall. Today, we learned the official free-to-play start date — September 29, 2015.
Carbine maintains this is more than just a business model conversion with WildStar, as a massive update will accompany the switch. Previously detailed, the update will include new content, enhanced game systems, and numerous quality of life improvements.
"Titled WildStar Reloaded, the upcoming content update is the culmination of months of improvements and tweaks that make the game bigger and better than ever. New players will enjoy a greatly streamlined starting experience, while veteran players will be handsomely rewarded for their loyalty. As an added perk, all players with active subscriptions at the time of the free-to-play transition will also receive exclusive items as a bonus."
In addition to the new date, Carbine also announced that the second phase of WildStar's closed beta is beginning today, with a focus on fine-tuning the update's changes prior to release. While phase one focused on testing the improved player experience — new content and tutorials included — phase two will ensure that the economic aspect of the free-to-play switch is ready for launch. This will provide participants a risk-free opportunity to test the new in-game store by buying NCoin — a real money currency used to purchase items in-game. Money you spend to purchase items for your beta character will be transferred in full to your live character once the switch officially happens.
Current WildStar subscribers have access to the free-to-play closed beta, as well as non-subscribers who have already been invited. That being said, anyone can sign up for a closed beta key over on the WildStar website.
