CCP's galactic MMO, EVE Online, will be ditching its subscription model and going free-to-play in an attempt to welcome more players into its giant universe-sized sandbox.

Following a November update the game will split players into two classes, which are being referred to as "clone states."

Active subscribers will be handed Omega Clone status, giving them unlimited access to the game's entire range of content.

"Any account with an active subscription -- paid directly or via PLEX -- will have all its characters upgraded to Omega state," explained CCP in a blog post. 

"Omega can be summed up in a very simple way: It works exactly like subscribed accounts always have."

Alpha Clone status is where the shake-up begins. This is the new free tier, and will become the base state for all players. 

Unlike Omega accounts, Alpha players will only be allowed to train and use specific faction-native skills and weapons, such as tech one Frigates, Destroyers and Cruisers.

They will also train skills at a lower rate than Omega players, although CCP is keen to stress that Alpha players will have "enormous freedom," and will be doing everything "from rampaging null sec in Caracal fleets to exploration sites in high sec to playing a major role in faction warfare."

It's a huge change for the decade old MMO, so CCP is keen to hear feedback and work with players to iron out any creases and pre-empt problems

A comprehensive breakdown of the clone system can be found over on the CCP blog, where players can also find out how to make contact with the studio.