Taking cues from MMOs like Rift and World of Warcraft, Killzone 3 will soon let gamers download and play its multiplayer component for free – with a level cap.
Beginning next week, Killzone 3’s multiplayer will be available for free on PSN. Players who download the service will join and be matched with those who own the full game, gaining access to the Warzone, Operations, and Guerilla Warfare modes, as well as every map and DLC pack currently available. The only difference will be the maximum level reachable, capped at “Sergeant” (level 10 of 45) for those unwilling to open their wallets.
Players who want to advance past level ten can pay a one-time fee of $14.99 to unlock the “full experience.” Aside from being able to eventually max out their character, they’ll also be granted 24 hours of double-experience play, as well as access to multiple “double experience weekends,” the first of which to take place March 2nd.
Splitting apart Killzone 3 is an interesting idea and, in retrospect, one that I’m somewhat surprised we haven’t seen sooner. These days, many people purchase shooters almost exclusively for the multiplayer, either forgiving under-developed campaigns or ignoring them completely. Now, for less than 50% of the full game’s current value, players will be given the option of only paying for what they want, and only after a solid amount of “try before you buy.” That isn’t to say that Killzone 3’s singleplayer isn’t worth a try, just that it’s sort of great that Sony is giving players options. And options are always a good thing to have.
Source: Joystiq
