Blizzard is "looking at free-to-play" for Starcraft 2 multiplayer
"We don't know how we would monetise it."
Blizzard is considering ways to implement a free-to-play model in its wildly popular real-time strategy game Starcraft 2.
When asked about Starcraft 2 going free-to-play at a Valencia eSports Congress panel, lead designer Dustin Browder responded that Blizzard is "looking at free to play as an option for the multiplayer," according to a report at PCGamesN.
Browder went on to explain that transitioning the payment model presented a logistical challenge to Blizzard. "We don't know how we would monetise it," he said. "While it might be good fun for me to play against someone with only half the units available to them, that's not going to be an enjoyable experience for them."
It's quite possible that Blizzard will figure something out as Starcraft 2 is one of the only full-priced retail products in the eSports scene with League of Legends and DotA 2 being free-to-play and Counter-Strike: Global Operations costing a scant £11.99.
It's unlikely this will happen anytime soon though, as the developer has a lot on its plate already with two Starcraft 2 expansions - Heart of the Swarm and Legacy of the Void - coming out. But maybe when the Starcraft 2 trilogy is complete Blizzard will find a way to implement a more accessible pricing scheme for curious commanders.
