Following a comprehensive review of the online gaming world, including various MMORPGs, the Imms have announced that effective from 1st January 2009, Aardwolf will become pay-to-play only.
"This is not, and let me emphasise this, not due to rising server costs," said Lasher in a statement earlier today. "Donations are covering things just fine. But comparing ourselves to say World of Warcraft, we've come to the conclusion that our players are missing out on important aspects of online gaming."
Since v3 (and indeed before), many aspects of the game have been adapted and/or compared to other systems; the 'tasks and goals' implemented are rather similar to mainstream 'quests', class specialisation, and of course mockery of people who die in PvP combat.
"While it's free, however," Lasher continued, "People can't really throw a good tantrum about how they're not getting value for their money. Our basic package will start at $1 a month, with an easy to setup, and easy to cancel payment system."
"This is great," said one player earlier today, "I've been moaning about how thieves are nerfed nowadays for months, but no-one pays any attention to me. Now that I can threaten to withhold my money, people will start listening!"
Dozens of players have already signed up to start paying from January, although approximately half of these have cancelled their account within twenty four hours to register their disgust.
"Clearly the system is working already," said Lasher. "If it proves to be a lasting success, I'm considering offering 'premium' accounts with special features for a dollar fifty. These will allow the premium players a sense of virtuous superiority and elitism, while still allowing regular players a whole new subject to bitch endlessly about on the boards."
 

Editor's Note: It has come to our attention that people are actually taking us seriously. Please don't, or you'll put us out of business.