You are actually buying an item pack that allows early access to the game.
Items Included
Mighty Boar
Stoic Mask of the High Plains
Wolf Cape of the High Plains
Aspect Wraps of the High Plains
Long-Fang the Grey Blade
Tayrnhelm of the Swordmaster
Girth of the Swordmaster
Fluted Guard of the Swordmaster
Grip of the Swordmaster
Staff of the Old Doctor
Wooden Fetish Mask
www.pcgamer.com/2012/06/01/dota-2-free-to-play-store/
It's still going to be free to play and you can still sign up for invite for free as well. This just gives people a way to be able to get their friends a copy who don't have the patience to sign up early and wait for the key.
Once the game is released it will be free though. Don't make assumptions.
This is a LOT like what Mech online is doing as well
mwomercs.com/founders
Also remember DOTA 2 will be free to play AND will not charge for characters.
