If you have yet to “boldly go” and sign up for ‘Star Trek Online’ now is the time! That’s right kids! ‘Star Trek Online’, the acclaimed Sci-Fi MMORPG, developed by Cryptic Studios, will be free-to-play in 2011. Players will be able to download and enjoy the game as they like at no cost.

Here’s an overview of ‘Star Trek Online’s free-to-play features and how you can “engage” in a number of different ways:

The Universe is Your Only Limit – Play as much as you like for as long as you like at no cost. No subscription is necessary, nor is payment of any kind required.

– Play as much as you like for as long as you like at no cost. No subscription is necessary, nor is payment of any kind required. Episodic Gameplay – Experience new weekly episodes that feature story-based gameplay and put your captain’s ability to command to the ultimate test.

– Experience new weekly episodes that feature story-based gameplay and put your captain’s ability to command to the ultimate test. Your Captain, Your Crew, Your Destiny – Become a captain, seek out new life and new civilizations and encounter hostile beings as you advance to maximum level for free.

– Become a captain, seek out new life and new civilizations and encounter hostile beings as you advance to maximum level for free. Familiar Places, New Experiences – Travel to Starfleet Academy, Deep Space Nine, The First City of Qo’noS and many other iconic locations and notable worlds from the beloved ‘Star Trek Online’.

As Star Trek Online’s free-to-play effort is very much still in development, please be aware that the information provided here is subject to change pending user feedback and closed beta testing.

Later this year, when ‘Star Trek Online’ free-to-play launches, anyone can download and play the game for free without purchasing a retail copy or subscription. All players will be able to take advantage of Star Trek Online’s many features for free, from customizing avatars, crews and the very ships they command, to exploring a galaxy filled with intrigue and danger.

Players will also be able to access additional features via micro-transactions through a virtual goods store. Current players can become Gold Members by continuing to subscribe to the game for $14.99 per month. New players can also upgrade to Gold status at the same rate of $14.99 per month. Gold members will get added features like a larger inventory and additional character slots. The full list of differences between paying Gold Members and free Silver Players can be found at the official ‘Star Trek Online‘ site.