Today Rift has introduced a new version of the game that will allow players access to the game for free.  Called Rift Lite, this mode allows gamers who already have a copy of Rift but have discontinued their subscription to play characters up to level 20 without gameplay restrictions.  

“In the past ten months, Rift has evolved at a breakneck pace, through seven massive updates that set new expectations for live MMOs, in features, in content, and in service,” said Scott Hartsman, Executive Producer of Rift and Trion’s CCO. “We think a Lite edition with no time limit is the best way for players to see what an amazing experience Rift continues to be.” 

As you may recall World of Warcraft has a similar system, but doesn't require players to purchase the game in order to play a trial account. It appears that Trion Worlds is already introducing a trial period to their game, only 13 months after launch.  As far as I can tell Trion Worlds is not really interested in pulling in new players with this program (thus opening Rift Lite only to those who already have a Trion account) but are more interested in luring back those who played the game before but weren't thrilled enough to continue playing.  I fall into this category myself, and will most likely check out this new version of the game if only to see exactly what they mean by no restrictions.

Rift Lite is part of the 1.7 Update to the game that includes some interesting features that seem mostly centered around PvP: 

·         PvP Improvements - Smoother advancement and better rewards
·         Ascended Weddings - Share eternity with your soulmate, Telara-style
·         River of Souls Chronicle - Undead adventure for two
·         New Master Mode Dungeon – Caduceus Rise
·         Expert Dungeon Overhaul - More options, better loot!
·         Better Endgame Equipment - Improved loot for your endgame Ascended