Wargaming.net has announced that it is moving to a model it calls “free-to-win” by removing any remaining opportunities for players to buy on-battlefield advantages.

Speaking with Gamasutra, Wargaming.net vice president of publishing Andrei Yarantsau said the company doesn’t want to nickel and dime its players.

“Wargaming is a company delivering free-to-play online games, and we strongly believe that you can't provide a truly triple-A free-to-play experience without absolutely making sure all combat options are free of charge to all players.”

Instead, players will be able to purchase more cosmetic options, and different vehicles, items that will confer status, but not power.

“The free-to-win concept is sure to enhance customer loyalty and attract new players to the game. As for the company's economic efficiency, we expect no decline in profits,” continued Yarantsau.

The move is aligned with Wargaming.net’s push into Western markets and eSports.

“We don't want World of Tanks players to feel like it's an experience that only a select few can afford. Quite contrary, we want the game to embody accessibility and fairness to all players, paying or not.”

Gameplanet recently travelled to Thailand to cover the TanksAsia Masters Open Season Finals, and learn more about Wargaming.net’s ambitions for this market.

In related news, Wargaming.net has today released the debut cinematic trailer for its free-to-play naval combat game, World of Warships.