Aion -- Soon F2P

[Zub]

• No monthly subscription fee
• No charges for registration and client
• All classes, regions and instances playable
• Complete and playable storyline with 3,900 quests
• Character development up to level 55 possible

For new players there are only a few limitations, that concern trading and chat amongst others. You can always upgrade your account and enjoy Aion in its full extent: with a Gold Pack you unlock full functionality – look forward to bonuses such as higher payouts or shorter cooldowns for instances.

Am i understanding this correctly? no cost at all (no subscription AND no initial purchase)?
Beats the wow starter accounts to the ground, it seems

[Zub]

Am i understanding this correctly? no cost at all (no subscription AND no initial purchase)?
Beats the wow starter accounts to the ground, it seems

You will receive the Starter rank when you start playing Aion after the switch to the free-to-play model. As a Starter you will have access to all regions.
You will be able to select your hero from the entire range of four classes, level them up to level 55 as well as experience all 3,900 quests – and all absolutely free!

Some game options will be limited however: amongst other things, you will only be able to create two characters, you won't be able to use certain chat channels and you will be unable to carry out any private trading.

All possibilities can however be unlocked with the purchase of a Gold Pack. Alternatively you can earn yourself the Veteran rank by fulfilling certain requirements. More details on how it will work will be made available in time before the switch.

from http://www.aionfreetoplay.com/website/features