Well, they just announced a free-to-play option.
https://forums.embersadrift.com/inde...une-2023.3996/
"At the end of June, 2023 all players who have purchased Embers Adrift (past, present, or future) will be able to play an active character through all the content in the game without a subscription. Subscribers who choose to support us with their monthly subscription of $9.99 will be given additional perks to enjoy. "