I have been thinking on pay to play vs free to play often lately. Currently I am subscribed to WoW, and have purchased and am playing all the Guild Wars versions. I am playing Zu and Wizard101, and am dabbling with RF Online, (frankly because there isn't a better sci-fi option at the moment).
   The things that attract me to each game differs, but lately I have been preferring the free games. Why? I feel that it is because I get to pace myself in when and how I pay for the entertainment I am getting from that company.

A recent customer study found that F2P games attract new gamers to the industry, it is a way for brand new gamers to test the water without any commitment and be able to see what MMORPGS are all about. Now, you can argue that a trial period for a P2P game also does this. However, the F2P games don't require a credit card, and that is a plus for the younger gamers and those that don't want their financial information online.

 I like item malls. They allow me to support the company that makes the game, and at my own pace. I can purchase many items, or just one, and still feel as if I am doing my part to further the game and the company. How is this better than a monthly subscription?  Let me break that down.
  The monthly subscription you pay for  in theory pays for server costs, salaries, updates and customer service. It is great, but what if you don't play all that much, and would rather casual game than hardcore game?  I like the option to be able to make little purchases as I need them, and have the game available on a causal speed, rather than feel that I am wasting my money if I don't play much that month.

  I also feel that that item malls should go through a bit of an upgrade. There should never be an item available in a mall that you can't grind or quest for the equivalent of. It is not fair that those with the most money win, that is a CCG gamer mentality, and does not belong in our MMO's. I would urge companies to start doing this, make the item mall there for what it is intended for; for players to show support and happiness with the game they are playing, and for the companies to make money.

 Each month is gets harder to justify a WoW subscription, when there are some great F2P games out there. I find myself playing less on WoW, and more on some great games that allow me to pay as I go, and be able to have control on when and where I support those companies. We spend the time on our characters, make real friends and alliances, and feel the rush of victory, we should be able to say how and when we pay for these services.  An online game is not just another bill that comes monthly, and companies should not treat it like one. Listen to the community, it wants more QUALITY F2P games, and this is the key to make many awesome new games. 

 Quality over Quantity, story and substance over grind and twink, and the gamers will flock to your door. I hope someone out there is listening, because I don't see things changing quick enough.