Free-to-play model and no pay-to-win stance

The discussion briefly shifts from classes to monetization philosophy. Scars of Honor is described as planned as a free-to-play MMORPG with a firm rejection of pay-to-win systems.

Free-to-play as a population strategy

The game's free-to-play model is presented as a deliberate design choice rather than a fallback. The stated reasoning is that MMORPGs depend on a large active player base, and upfront box prices or mandatory subscriptions reduce the number of people who can enter the game.

The speakers argue that a healthier MMO requires more players online, and that lowering the entry barrier supports that goal.

No pay-to-win position

The game is described as explicitly not pay-to-win. The speakers connect this to long-term player trust and to the health of the game rather than only to short-term revenue.

The argument given is that monetization systems built around pressure, paywalls, or competitive advantage may extract money quickly but do not create a sustainable MMO community. Instead, the preferred model is that players spend money because they value the game and want optional items, not because they are forced to pay to remain competitive.

Optional paid features

Although mandatory subscriptions are rejected, optional subscription-like offerings are mentioned as a possibility. Appearance-related benefits are given as an example of something that could exist as a paid option without becoming a requirement for play.

This is framed as a way to support the developer while keeping the core game accessible and fair.

Monetization and progression boundaries

The same philosophy appears in the discussion of talent respecialization. Build changes are not intended to cost real money. If there is a cost, it is expected to be an in-game currency earned through play rather than a cash-shop fee.

This is consistent with the broader position that progression and competitive power should not be sold directly.

Source

• Recording: Scars OF Honor - Discussion with Game Design Director about all Classes. Where everything started ?
• YouTube: Watch on YouTube
• Published: Sunday, February 15, 2026 at 8:32 PM UTC