Quake Live subscription models unveiled

Last February id Software launched an open beta for Quake Live, the free-to-play Web-based shooter. Shooter fans have been able to rip each other's heads off without paying a cent for more than a year now, but today, developer id Software announced plans to make money on the game.

QuakeLive--essentially a port of the 1996 PC Game Quake III Arena--will remain free-to-play, but for those desiring additional content and features, two new subscription plan tiers were announced today.

Those who pay $1.99 a month for "premium" access will earn admittance to 20 exclusive levels, a new Freeze Tag game mode, "premium level awards," the ability to create a clan and join five others, Quake-themed PC wallpaper, and the ability to have their match statistics stored for six months.

The next tier of subscription, dubbed "pro," includes everything in the "premium" library, and more, for $3.99 a month. The upper level subscription allows gamers to control their Quake Like experience further by allowing players to start their own server, specify the server's location and game mode, and invite whomever they wish to the game. Additionally, those who subscribe at this level can invite free-playing members to play on a premium level map. Further, pro subscribers have the ability to join up to 10 distinct clans, have their match data stored for 12 months, and earn exclusive awards.

Quake Live is an online-only game that features more than 30 arenas, five game modes, and 50-plus characters. The title also features a full loadout of leaderboards; player profiles that include scores, stats, and achievement awards; and a matchmaking system based on skill level.