Electronic Arts has announced a release date and details for their upcoming MMO experiment, Need for Speed World. Starting July 20th, players will be able to download a free client program to play the game. As a free user, you’ll be able to participate in races and advance your career through ten levels.
Beyond that, you’ll have to pay a bit. Additionally announced is a “starter pack” featuring $20 worth of the SpeedBoost currency used in the game (how much that actually is and how far it goes has not been made entirely clear as of yet) along with a bundle of consumable power-ups and access to all fifty levels of career progression. All for the low, low MSRP of $20.
Additionally, if you pre-order the Need for Speed World starter pack, you’ll also be entitled to early access of the game on July 13th. That extra week of play offers increased experience gain. Plus, you’ll be labeled as a “VIP” on your profile for all eternity.
It all sounds cool. I’m not keen on being nickel-and-dimed by my games because I know I can easily lose track and pay far more than the price of a retail game, but this does sound like an excellent approach.
