Trion Worlds just made a couple of noteworthy Rift announcements coinciding with the recent release of Update 1.5 and the upcoming launch of the Ashes of History world event. Here are the details:

• New and returning players can play Rift for free this weekend. The free gameplay begins on Thursday, October 13 at 9:30 a.m. PDT and runs through Monday, October 17 at 9 a.m. PDT.
• Players can now purchase the Ashes of History Edition of the game to get Spindrel the spider mount, Moneybags the personal bogling banker, and faction tabards. You can upgrade your account for $10, or purchase the standard game and items for $14.99 during the Fall Festival Sale sale that ends on October 19.

If you're wondering what these items look like in-game, feel free to browse through the Ashes of History Edition screenshots in our gallery.