Is a Game Really Free to Play if Expansions Cost Money?

As I was writing about Destiny 2’s “Year of Prophecy” yesterday, I found myself reflecting on a recurring thought. Essentially, can we truly call this game free-to-play if expansions come with a price tag?

Let me clarify, I understand that businesses need to generate revenue, even for free-to-play games. This isn’t a complaint about spending on games in general. However, when developers ask for payment for significant content like expansions, it feels like players are obligated to pay to enjoy the same experiences as their friends. The implication is clear: if you want to stay engaged, you must pay.

This is an expectation we have with buy-to-play MMOs. After paying an initial price to enter, it’s highly likely that we’ll need to spend more—be it via subscription fees, expansion costs, or both. Regardless, it’s widely understood that unless you are investing in some form, you won’t be able to keep pace with friends who have purchased the necessary content or have an active subscription.

However, when a game claims to be free-to-play, the situation can become confusing. Some titles offer free gameplay but include optional cosmetic purchases or gacha elements. Others charge for smaller DLC packs. Then there are games like Destiny 2, which allow free initial access but require payment for future expansions. This model can resemble buy-to-play MMOs that permit extended trials. Yes, trial users may be restricted from certain community features, such as joining guilds or trading. Still, they can experience the game up to a point at no cost before needing to pay to access content enjoyed by the bulk of the player base.

There are also games that provide all content at no cost but monetize in alternate ways. I’m not suggesting that systems like gacha or lootboxes are superior; honestly, I’m not a fan, as I’d rather make direct purchases. Yet, it’s possible to engage with these games without any financial investment. While you might not acquire some exciting items, you still have the choice to explore the game entirely for free.

Of course, Destiny 2 isn’t alone in the free-to-play category nor is it the only title that restricts content through payment. This is merely one of many monetization strategies employed by developers. I’m not here to critique which approach is preferable. As someone who enjoys both free-to-play games like Zenless Zone Zero and buy-to-play/subscription based games like Final Fantasy XIV, I see value and drawbacks in both methods. My main concern lies in the validity of labeling games as free-to-play when significant content is locked behind a paywall.