Quake Live (previously known as Quake Zero) is a free FPS video game by id Software designed to run on x86-based computers running Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X or Linux that is downloaded and launched via a web browser plugin. It is a variant of its predecessor, Quake III Arena (Q3A). The game first appeared in 2007, entered an invitation-based closed beta in 2008, and an open beta began on February 24, 2009.

On August 6, 2010, Quake Live is out of beta phase, and is now live. Here is a quote from the official news, explaining the two versions of the game available now.

In addition to the ‘Standard’ free-to-play version, today we’ve announced our ‘Premium’ and ‘Pro’ subscriptions — adding new maps, game modes, and plenty more. Details below…

The Premium Subscription, which can be purchased for $1.99 per month, billed annually, includes:

* Access to 20 QUAKE LIVE Premium only maps at launch with more to come. Premium maps are a combination of brand new maps and frequently requested community favorites from previous QUAKE games such as Aerowalk, Theater of Pain, Japanese Castles, and Realm of Steel Rats;
* An all new ‘Freeze Tag’ game mode;
* Exclusive premium level awards;
* Create your own clan and join up to five separate clans;
* Custom QUAKE LIVE profile wallpaper; and
* Match statistics stored for six months.

The Pro Subscription, which can be purchased for $3.99 per month, billed annually, includes all of the premium subscription features as well as:

* The ability to start your own game server, specify a server location, determine the game mode and invite who you want to join you;
* With the Pro Subscription, you can invite three friends with Standard level memberships to play with you in any Premium level map;
* Exclusive pro awards;
* Create your own clan and join up to ten separate clans; and
* Match statistics stored for 12 months.

The QUAKE LIVE ‘Standard’ version is still free to play and includes friend lists, access to one clan, matchmaking, and stats tracking delivered through a web browser with over 40 arenas and five game modes.