Disney Dreamlight Valley released some months ago as an Early Access title, with the intention of a full release in December as a free-to-play game, but those plans have now changed. The game still launches later this year, on December 5th, but will remain a paid title.
 

Various purchase options are available on the Nintendo eShop, and a retail edition will also be available at top retailers throughout the UK, though it should be noted it will be a code in a box and not a cartridge.

As we transition to launch, existing players will keep their access to the game, their Moonstones, and their save game. 

As we look ahead to the official launch, with the learnings we've gained from Early Access, we’ve made the decision to remain a paid game for the foreseeable future.

This means we will not make the transition to be a free-to-play game when we leave Early Access on December 5th. 

This choice ensures that Disney Dreamlight Valley will be able to continue delivering on a premium game experience for all players. It's important to us that we maintain our promise to keep delivering free content updates that add new characters, realms, clothing, furniture, and more surprises to your Valley.

Purchases requiring moonstones will remain optional, fair, and match the level of quality players have come to expect. Players will still be able to collect free Moonstones via Dream Snaps and Chests, or optionally choose to purchase them.  

As well as this, the developers have announced a paid Expansion Pass is also on the way.

Today, we are excited to announce the arrival of Disney Dreamlight Valley: A Rift in Time, a paid Expansion Pass coming to Disney Dreamlight Valley this December 5th. 

More information about A Rift in Time will be revealed in a stream on November 1st.