Do you want a cash shop in FFXIV?

[Cendres]

I've also heard that EVE online is adjusting their model. So no it doesn't invalidate anything. EVE's little stunt was an experiment that proved you can't push too far on pixel items. Something that ended up costing dearly and am sure others are paying close attention.

Making an MMO is a gamble in any way whether it's subscription or free or a hybrid, again I do stick that the trick is finding the winning formula.

As for paying nothing, in all honesty you end up wanting to pay for a game that treats you fair over a game that forces you to pay for things. Sure there are going to be younger people who'll get a free ride, but even in a freemium game there can only get so far and see so much for nothing. For some people that will be okay, but for your core group it won't and those are the people you want hooked. Gotta find the right hook.