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Atari Europe and Cryptic Studios have announced that Champions Online will be free to play worldwide from January 25th.

By dropping the subscription model the game will rely on the sale of premium content and the new Gold status which will offer extra features and unlocks most of the game content for a monthly fee of £10.34/€14.94.

"It's a genuine pleasure to be able to announce our release date for Champions Online: Free for All," said John Needham, CEO, Cryptic Studios. "On January 25, 2011, any gamer or would-be superhero can play within the ever-improving world of Champions Online for no cost whatsoever."

Atari has announced plans for Champions Online to switch to a free to play model from Q1 2011. From that point on gamers will be able to download and play the game for free - but will also be able to purchase premium content such as adventures, costumes and other items vua the Cryptic C-Store.

"Transitioning Champions Online to the free-to-play model is a great opportunity to reach a whole new audience of PC gamers that view subscription fees as a barrier to entry," said John Needham, CEO of Cryptic Studios. "By taking care of our current subscription-based community and welcoming the addition of new players through free-to-play, Champions Online is poised to build upon its success and to establish a new leadership position as the first free-to-play superhero MMO."

The free to play closed beta will begin on November 9th 2010 with openings for other plays coming in the near future.

Cryptic Studios is celebrating the first birthday of the superhero MMO Champions Online.

Part of the celebrations include a free trial and a sale in the game's store.

Check out the details and links after the jump: