D&D Online free-to-play August 6

When Turbine announced that Dungeons & Dragons Online was going free-to-play in the summer, it left the precise date as an open question. However, today the publisher cleared up that ambiguity by announcing that the 2006 massively multiplayer online game would open its doors to free access on August 6 in North America.

The new subscription model will coincide with the launch of the free update Eberron Unlimited and its new microtransaction store. Eberron Unlimited was put into closed beta the moment the free-to-play model was brought to light, with former subscription holders enrolled into a new "VIP program" that grants access to beta testing.

Once the new microtransaction plan is in place, premium members will receive special benefits, such as Turbine points, which can be used at the DDO store. All players will be able to use the currency on commodities like potions, equipment, and adventure packs.

Eberron Unlimited also boasts a slate of improvements like a raised level-20 cap, new adventure packs, "major combat improvements," and the "favored soul" class. VIP members will be able to play the live version of Eberron Unlimited on August 4, two days before everyone else.

Check out the video below for footage from Dungeons & Dragons: Stormreach.