Ultima Online Launching Mostly Free-to-Play Mode in 2018

Ultima Online may be one of the longest running games to add a free-to-play mode designed to entice new players and lure back lapsed ones. After 20 years of being online, the developers have decided to add what they're calling "Endless Journey". Endless Journey will allow players to play Ultima Online for free -- with some caveats.

The new service will be open to almost anyone, although anyone already playing the game will need to allow their account to lapse for 120 days before they can hop in for free. Free players will have access to the game's content through the Stygian Abyss content. Expansions after that point will need to be purchased.

Restrictions for Endless Journey involve limited vault slots, an inability to place or use a house, and an ineligibility for EM rewards, promotional, holiday, or veteran rewards. The restrictions are still being worked out, so there may be more when the new service launches. It is important to note that Endless Journey players will be able to rent more vault slots for in-game gold or tokens purchased via the game store. However, since these are rented, the slots will need to be paid on regularly or risk being lost.

For further information on the free-to-play mode, you can hit up the FAQ on the Ultima Online site.