Electronic Arts is one of the biggest publishers in the gaming industry and has made a name for itself by shamelessly releasing yearly iterations of its core franchises like Need For Speed, FIFA or Madden NFL and charging gamers full price even though the titles didn't bring any new and important things.

But in recent years, things have started to change for EA, as it doesn't rely that much on yearly iterations of old franchises, instead trying to promote new and interesting projects. One of them is Battlefield Heroes, which, although relying on a popular franchise from EA, is a browser-based third person action game completely free to play.

When it was first announced, analysts weren't very confident in EA, considering that because it would be basing its profit opportunities on micro transactions from players, not a lot of money would be made. But it seems that they were quite wrong, with EA revealing to the public that up until now Battlefield Heroes managed to rake in up to $30 million.

The game is also extremely popular with the fans, as it has 1.5 million registered players around the world, from almost 133 different countries. Almost 3 quarters of those players came from only 10 countries though: the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, France, Sweden, Russia, Canada, Poland and Brazil.

All of these players have spent, on average, almost $20 in the online store from Battlefield Heroes. Various clothing items were the most popular, as they accounted for 76 percent of all the money dropped by players. The top five items, according to EA, are the Kommendant's Coat, the Special Forces Officer Cap, Maverik's Sunglasses, the Elite Camo Trousers and the Marksman's Honor.

Surprisingly, not a lot of people bought things that might give them an edge in online matches, as only 19 % of the money spent went to advancement widgets like XP bonuses or other such things. Players were also interested in new emotes in order to further flaunt their superior skills in front of their victims by making a Robot Dance, for example.

Overall, it seems that the free game has been a gamble that completely paid off. Don't forget that another glorious franchise, Need for Speed, will see a free iteration in the form of NFS World Online.