APB Payment Method - The UpStream

APB is an MMO currently in development by Realtime Studios that is essentially Grand Theft Auto online. If you could do it in GTA (hijack cars, perform robberies, etc) you can do it in APB and then some. Not only is their gameplay different from most MMOs but their payment methods are also different from what we MMO junkies in the Western hemisphere have become accustomed to. Instead of having a standard monthly fee you will be able to purchase game play by the hour if you so desire. Another interesting feature is that there are two aspects of the game; one of which you have to pay for and the other which is entirely free to people who have purchased the game. On the free side you have the social aspect of an MMO: the trading, the chatting and the guild aspects. On the pay side you have the action portion of the game where you fight crime or participate in it.

The retail client will be available digitally or in stores ($49.99/34.99/49.99) and will include 50 hours of 'action' gameplay plus unlimited time in the social districts. These districts include character customizing, socializing and marketplace trading. Once you burn through your initial 50 hours of action play, you can purchase an additional 20 hours for $6.99 (5.59, 6.29) or opt for the 30-day 'unlimited' package at $9.99 (7.99, 8.99). There will also be 90 and 180 day discounts available. Realtime Studios also revealed some of the perks you get from pre-ordering the game, including 10 extra hours of 'action' game time along with a key to the city which allows pre-launch event access, exclusive clothing, decals, emotes and a custom vehicle.

This game is one that I have been anticipating for some time and if this has caught your eye I suggest you give it a shot. If you want to be a man (or woman) of the law and fight crime, or if you want to participate in the crimes being committed you can do it in APB. If you are like me and need something to hold you over until SW:TOR, then this is the answer to your prayer.