Quake Champions Transitions to Paid Model with Free Access for Existing Players

After eight years under a free-to-play model, Quake Champions is making a dramatic shift—one that rewards long-time players while redefining its monetization strategy.

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A Strategic Pivot: Free No More

On September 23, 2026, id Software released Update 1.31, marking the end of Quake Champions’ free-to-play era. The game has transitioned to a paid-only model on Steam, priced at $9.99 for new players . This shift ends the game’s reliance on microtransactions, virtual currencies, and seasonal Battle Passes that had defined its monetization strategy for years.

Rewarding Loyalty: Existing Players Keep Everything

In a move that softens the transition, id Software ensured that anyone who played Quake Champions before the September 23 update retains full access at no extra cost. Steam players who already owned the game automatically received the paid version in their library . Microsoft Store players can also claim free access—if their Bethesda.net account is linked to a Steam account, access is granted within 48 hours; unlinked accounts have until October 7, 2026 to complete the process .