Free-to-Play

 launched on January 17, 2012 for all players and on January 5, 2012 for previous subscribers. Players will continue to have the choice in subscribing (gold accounts) or playing for free (silver accounts) under some restrictions. On May 3, 2018, the subscription model was discontinued for new players; existing subscriptions will continue, and can be cancelled at any time. To replace gold subscriptions, the Elite Starter Pack was introduced.

Early access
Executive producer Stephen D'Angelo announced that on January 5, 2012 players whose subscriptions to Star Trek Online had expired would be welcomed back to the game two weeks early, by being given free Silver memberships.

Features Matrix
All accounts will have unlimited access to all sectors and missions, PvP, Fleet Actions, Events and Dailies, Feature Episode Series, Special Task Forces, unlockable Klingon faction at level 24, playable classes (tactical, science, engineer), default playable species, unlockable premium playable species, ability to join a fleet, 3 free costume / uniform slots, playable Foundry content, purchaseable premium ships.

There are several differences between the subscriber gold accounts (lifetime or legacy $14.99 monthly subscriptions) and silver accounts (no subscription required).



Free-to-Play Test
The F2P build was first released on Tribble 29 September 2011. Cryptic held an extended Season 5 testing period Tribble Test Weekend from 29 September 2011 until 30 November 2011. Players who participated could receive various cumulative rewards, released on 8 December 2011: