Lotro first F2P patch is on the way

I was very pleased when I saw the Release Notes for November Update (these are for the test Bullroarer server and are subject to change). A few days ago, Turbine has announced several details about upcoming changes to Lotro, but this is much more than anyone has expected. So let's take a sneak peek at the first F2P patch notes:

Experience more of Middle-earth - FOR FREE!
Free and Premium players will now be able to access Moria, Lothlórien, Mirkwood, and Enedwaith for FREE! We have adjusted the access of Free and Premium players. You may now follow the Epic Story line through Moria, Mirkwood and, Enedwaith. This includes free access to the following:

• The Legendary item system.
• Attain level 65.
• Access Moria, Mirkwood, Lothlórien, and Enedwaith regions.

Note: You will still need to purchase the appropriate quest packs or expansion packs to access other content (quests, deeds, instances, classes, etc) in these areas.

Swift Travel Changes
Swift Travel Routes that previously required that the player be a subscriber are now usable by past subscribers as well (although only by characters created or used during the subscriber period).

New Barter Wallet
We have new Barter Wallet! The Barter Wallet will hold all Skirmish Marks used to purchase items from the Skirmish Barter Vendors as well as all Anniversary Tokens. The Barter Wallet may be opened by clicking on the Caret symbol at the lower left of your screen and selecting Barter Wallet from the list of panels. You may be able to expand this feature in the future through gameplay or the LOTRO store.

Tasks
Tasks are free repeatable quest that players can use to augment their leveling within the game world. We'll have a full developer diary about this new system in the coming weeks, but here's some of what you can expect

• Over 250 new quests.
• 100% FREE to All players.
• Use existing trophy drops.
• NEW Deeds and Rewards.
• Available at all levels, starting at Level 8.
• Infinitely repeatable.