Star Trek Online Phases Out Monthly Subscriptions — But There’s a Silver Lining

In a surprising twist, Star Trek Online is boldly gone where no MMORPG has gone before—canceling monthly subscriptions. While this might sound like a warp core breach, it’s actually good news for long-time fans of Cryptic Studios’ flagship MMO.

Since its 2010 launch, STO has evolved from a subscription-based MMORPG into a hybrid free-to-play model. Back in 2018, Cryptic stopped offering new monthly subscriptions, pivoting to a buy-to-play business model with optional microtransactions. However, existing subscribers were grandfathered in, allowing them to continue reaping the benefits of their monthly payments. Fast-forward six years, and those ever loyal subscribers are now receiving some out-of-this-world compensation.

Monthly subscriptions in Star Trek Online have officially been canceled as of October 10. But fear not, Trekkies! In a move that’s sure to appease even the grumpiest Klingon, Cryptic and Deca Games are converting all remaining monthly subscriptions into free lifetime memberships.

“We wanted to make sure we thanked you properly,” reads an email sent to subscribers. “Anyone who had an active subscription on January 1, 2024, will see that subscription transferred to a free Lifetime Membership.”

Lifetime memberships, which usually go for $200 (and less during promotions), come with a slew of perks, including exclusive ships, costumes, and monthly stipend of Zen (the in-game currency). So for those who’ve been paying faithfully for years, this might feel like finally reaching the end of a long warp.

For STO veterans, this marks the end of an era, but with the free lifetime membership offer, it’s clear Cryptic and Deca want to show appreciation for their most loyal captains. Now, the only question left is: where will your next mission take you?