I hear alot of big numbers here and even the word 'years', f2p in the form it is now has only been possible for 1year and 5months (6months) really.
From patchnotes: http://forums.ryzom.com/showthread.php?t=35224
From patchnotes: http://forums.ryzom.com/showthread.php?t=35224
Patch 1.11.0 - Ryzom is now Free To Play and new boss!On Wednesday, March 9 between 09:00 and 11:00 GMT, the servers will be brought down for the implementation of patch 1.11.0.
This patch brings the following:
New Free Trial System
We are pleased to announce that from now on, players that create a new account can play Ryzom without time or place limits. Instead, free trial accounts are now limited to a maximum level of 125 in all different skills, enabling everyone to sample all aspects of Ryzom and to discover what makes this MMO unique. When you reach level 125 in a skill you can still continue playing, but you will gain no more experience points. The second limitation is storage: you cannot own any mektoub packers, use the inventory of your apartment or take any items from a guild hall.
Despite the freedom of this new system, we would like to remind you that Ryzom can only live on through your paid subscriptions. Thank you for the confidence you have in us. ...
---