Sony Online (SOE) announced today that thier MMO title DC Universe Online (DCUO) will be converting to free-to-play this October.

As part of the transition, SOE will be introducing three new access levels to the game: Free, Premium and Legendary. All three levels will provide access to open world game-play and missions, general game updates and fixes to the game, with each level offering different game options and benefits.

In Free, new players will now have access to the current game-play in DC Universe Online (including Gotham City, Metropolis, and all current raids and alerts), with the ability to create two characters, join a league and many other benefits. Free level players will be able to purchase downloadable game packs/updates, additional character slots, powers and more through micro-transactions.

With the Premium level, and any player who has spent at least $5 (including former paid subscribers and new players who have purchased $5 of in-game items) will qualify for the Premium access level. Premium level players will have more benefits available to them than the Free level player, including additional character slots, additional inventory slots, and higher cash limits. Downloadable adventure packs, additional character slots, and more can be purchased in-game.

Finally, Legendary will have maximum features and benefits included at this level. Loaded with enhanced additional features, Legendary access will be available for a $14.99 monthly fee and includes all DLC packs at no cost, more than 15 character slots, more than 80 inventory slots, the ability to form unrestricted-sized leagues, and many other benefits.

The conversion is for both the PS3 and PC versions of the game.