While many expected an eventual move to free to play, Funcom looks to have opted for a different strategy with The Secret World (AusGamers 8.5/10), removing the requirement for a subscription by transitioning the MMO to a "Pay Once, Play Forever" model.

“With this recent change there is no reason not to join and take part in ‘The Secret World’,” says Game Director Joel Bylos. “Most players end up having a ton of fun once they delve into the myths and legends of ‘The Secret World’, and we believe the game has the potential to be even more successful without the subscription entry barrier. It is an ambitious and very exciting move for us!”

A detailed page on the official site further explains the new state of affairs, describing a new membership mode that adds an assortment of additional perks to players that opt to still pay a monthly membership fee:

For those who want to get the most out of their Secret World experience we have an optional Membership available. Being a monthly subscriber, for the same cost as before, now gives great benefits. For being a member you get the following:

• Time Accelerator (Clickable item which increases experience gain for defeating monsters by 100% for 1 hour, 16 hour cool-down – only usable by Members and Grand Masters)
  
• $10 worth of Bonus Points (given out every month)
  
• Item-of-the-month gift (given out every month)
  
• 10% discount to everything in the in-game store

The Grandmaster pack includes all these benefits and gets an additional 10% discount to everything in the in-game store, for a total bonus of 20%. So being a Grandmaster is better than ever!

Through the month of December we have a special offer where we give 30% off on the first purchase on the 3, 6 and 12 month Membership plans.

Watch the "Pay Once, Play Forever!" Trailer below, for a quick brief.