Rumor: Microsoft launching free-to-play initiative on Xbox LIVE?

A free-to-play (F2P) games model will be available through Xbox LIVE sometimes next year, according to a “trusted source” of IGN. Online games publishers such as Nexon and Outspark use the F2P model, allowing players to play the game free of pay, but charge money for additional content like weapons, in-game currency, or experience points.

Late last month, it was announced that Nexon and Microsoft were teaming up to bring Dungeon Fighter Online (pictured) to Xbox LIVE Arcade. The project is not only a joint effort between Microsoft and Nexon, but between developers Neople and Softmax, as well.

On PC, Dungeon Fighter Online is a free-to-play online RPG. Though it was confirmed the Xbox LIVE Arcade version would be of the same genre, pricing has yet to be brought up. When it launches, Dungeon Fighter Online may be the kickstart to this new initiative.