Is there way to just buy "everything" in lotro? I have tried it couple of times, but always got stuck with half of the missions requiring me to pay, but I was hesitant to pay, because I have absolutely no idea how much I'd end up paying if I got into it.
Let's see. I, for one, think that Turbine's (LoTRO, DDO) business model is the best by far.
The are basically 3 options:
1) Play for free to level ~30. This is basically a long trial, where you have quite a few restrictions. After that you can either
2) Subscribe, and get everything (apart from expansion packs) and remove all restrictions, or
3) Buy quest packs. These unlock one zone at a time. And after you first purchase, whatever it is, you also remove some of the free player restriction forever.
I guess it would be best to buy a quest pack and see how much you enjoy your time. Since you purchase it once, it's unlocked permanently. And if you really end up liking the game, I can recommend subscribing.
The micro transaction side is pretty much cosmetic, with some boosts on the side. Armour (with stats anyway) and weapons can't be bought.
By far the best MMO out there, and keeps getting better in every expansion and update.
