Ten Ton Hammer - Taking MMO Gamers to the Next Level!

It calls to me.

Free Realms is an upcoming MMO from SOE that is meant to appeal to children. Now, sit back down. Just because it's aimed at children doesn't mean you won't like it either. I have to say I'm very impressed with what I'm seeing in Eurogamer's preview of it, and I can't wait to get my hands on it myself to give you guys a real good preview.

Free Realms is, of course, a slightly disingenuous name. Mostly Free Realms Plus Some Cheap Ones would be more accurate. Although it covers just about every business model going - including advertising when launching from its website, and some microtransaction options tying into items and its in-built card game - the main way Free Realms will make money is through an optional five-dollars-a-month subscription charge. This will grant access to large chunks of members-only content - around 40 per cent of the game, says lead designer Laralyn McWilliams - as well as a few other benefits, like three character slots as opposed to the free game's one.

The main thing about Free Realms is that it will be successful, even if only children play it. It will be FUN. Because that's what it takes to keep children interested. BRB, my inner child is calling. *Dives into Free Realms*

For the full preview, please check here.