VMPlayer is free just not VMWorkstation.
The only problem with VMplayer is you still need to be able to create a VM somehow. I'm not sure how to do that without either Server or Workstation since I have never used Player before.
VMware can be used for free at home, you just need to register and ask for a serial.
As long as you don't use it comercially you can use the most of the program for free.
Download it .. VMware Server Console
Ask for the serials .. you will get an email ..
create your own virtual machines ...
only other thing you need is a valid OS to install
cu