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{{Short description|2001 video game}}
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{{for|the 2013 version of ''RuneScape''|Old School RuneScape{{!}}''Old School RuneScape''}}
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{{Use British English|date=September 2010}}
{{Infobox video game {{Infobox video game
| title = RuneScape | title = RuneScape
| image = ] | image = Runescape 3 Logo.png
| developer = ]
| caption = RuneScape's logo (since 1 July 2008)
| developer = ] | publisher = Jagex
| director =
| designer = ]<br />Paul Gower
| producer =
| publisher = Jagex Games Studio
| designer = {{Ubl|Andrew Gower|Paul Gower}}
| released = ''RuneScape Classic (beta)'':<br />4 January 2001<br />''RuneScape 2'':<br />17 March 2004<br />''RuneScape HD'':<br />14 July 2008
| programmer =
| genre = ] ]
| artist =
| modes = ]
| writer =
| platforms = ]
| composer = {{Ubl|Ian Taylor|Adam Bond|]}}
| media = Web interface (])
| platforms = {{Ubl|]|]|]|]|]}}
| requirements = Minimum: 128 MB ], 500&nbsp;MHz ]<br />
| released = 4 January 2001<ref>{{Cite news|date=4 January 2021|title=Runescape celebrates its 20th anniversary with a 'Grand Party' and special rewards|work=PC Gamer|url=https://www.pcgamer.com/runescape-celebrates-its-20th-anniversary-with-a-grand-party-and-special-rewards/|access-date=4 January 2022}}</ref>
High Detail: 256 MB RAM, 1.5&nbsp;GHz CPU, ] ] or equivalent ]<ref name="HDRequirements"/>
| genre = ]
| modes = ]
}} }}
'''''RuneScape''''' is a ] ] (MMORPG) released in January 2001 by ] and Paul Gower,<ref name="ProquestGower"/> and developed and published by ]. It is a ] ] implemented on the ] in ], and incorporates ]. The game has approximately 10&nbsp;million active accounts per month, over 156&nbsp;million registered accounts,<ref name="TechRadar"/> and is recognised by the ] as the world's most popular free MMORPG.<ref name="Guinness Records"/>


'''''RuneScape''''' is a ] ] (MMORPG) developed and published by ], released in January 2001. ''RuneScape'' was originally a ] built with the ] programming language; it was largely replaced by a standalone ] client in 2016. The game has had over 300&nbsp;million accounts created and was recognised by the ] as the largest and most-updated free MMORPG.<ref name="USAToday"/>
''RuneScape'' takes place in the world of Gielinor, a medieval fantasy realm divided into different kingdoms, regions, and cities.<ref name="GodLettersIssue16"/><ref name="WorldMap"/> Players can travel throughout Gielinor on foot, through use of ] teleportation spells and devices, and via numerous other methods, such as charter ships.<ref name="Transportation"/> Each region offers different types of monsters, resources, and quests to challenge players. The game's ] has also been explored through a ] video game on its maker's other website, '']'', ''Armies of Gielinor'',<ref name="AOG"/> and a novel, ''Betrayal at Falador''.<ref name="BetrayalAtFalador"/>

''RuneScape'' takes place in the world of Gielinor, a medieval fantasy realm divided into different kingdoms, regions, and cities.<ref name="GodLettersIssue16"/><ref name="WorldMap"/> Players can travel throughout Gielinor via a number of methods including on foot, ], or charter ships.<ref name="Transportation"/> Each region offers different types of monsters, resources, and quests to challenge players. The game's ] has been explored through a ] video game on another of its maker's websites, '']'', ''Armies of Gielinor'',<ref name="AOG"/> and the novels '']'',<ref name="BetrayalAtFalador"/> ''Return to Canifis'',<ref name="ReturnToCanifis"/> and ''Legacy of Blood''.<ref name="LegacyOfBlood"/>


Players are represented in the game with customisable ]. ''RuneScape'' does not follow a ] storyline; rather, players set their own goals and objectives. Players can choose to fight ] (NPC) monsters, complete ], or increase their ] in the available skills.<ref name="WSJKnights"/> Players interact with each other through trading, ], or by participating in ] and activities, some of which are competitive or combative in nature, while others require cooperative or collaborative play. Players are represented in the game with customisable ]. ''RuneScape'' does not follow a ] storyline; rather, players set their own goals and objectives. Players can choose to fight ] (NPC) monsters, complete ], or increase their ] in the available skills. Players interact with each other through trading, chatting, or by participating in ] and activities, some of which are competitive or combative in nature, while others require cooperative or collaborative play.


The first public version of ''RuneScape'' was released on 4 January 2001 in ] form,<ref name="ProquestGower"/> and in December 2001, Jagex was formed to manage the game.<ref name="AboutJagex"/> As the game's popularity grew, the ] was rewritten, and its beta was opened to paying players on 1 December 2003 under the name "RuneScape 2". It was renamed ''RuneScape'' upon its stable release on 29 March 2004.<ref name="RS2Launch"/> The first public version of ''RuneScape'' was released in January 2001 in ] form, with Jagex as its copyright holder being formed later that year. In 2004, as the game's popularity grew, the ] was rewritten and released as ''RuneScape 2'',<ref>{{cite web|title=RS2 Launched!| date=29 March 2004 |url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/rs2-launched|publisher=RuneScape|access-date=13 August 2014}}</ref> with the original version of the game being renamed ''RuneScape Classic''. The third iteration of the game, known as ''RuneScape 3'', was released in July 2013.<ref name="RS3Release"/> '']'', a separate, older version of the game dating from August 2007, was released in February 2013, and is maintained alongside the original client. It was announced that mobile ports of both versions of ''RuneScape'' would be released for ] and ] devices in 2018.<ref name="RuneScapeMobile"/><ref name="OldSchoolRuneScapeMobile"/> ''RuneScape'' was released on ] on 14 October 2020.<ref name="SteamRelease"/>


==Gameplay== ==Gameplay==
] ]
Players begin in a secluded area, where they are taken through a ], a set path where they learn the most basic skills in ''RuneScape''.<ref name="getting_started"/> After the tutorial, players have access to tutors and advisors located in the towns they explore, who can give players appropriate information about their respective skills.<ref name="Tutors"/>


Players begin in a secluded area called Tutorial Island, where they are taken through a ], a set path where they learn the most basic skills in ''RuneScape''.<ref name="getting_started"/><ref>{{Cite web |last=Jagex |title=Beginners' Guide |url=https://www.runescape.com/game-guide/beginners-guide |access-date=20 September 2022 |website=RuneScape |language=en}}</ref> After the tutorial, players have access to tutors and advisors located in the towns they explore, who can give players appropriate information about their respective skills.<ref name="Tutors"/> Originally players were teleported to the town of Lumbridge, however in recent updates, Burthorpe is the main starting area.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Payne |first=Freddie |date=2022-05-22 |title=Old School RuneScape: 5 Beginner Tips |url=https://www.thegamer.com/old-school-runescape-beginner-tips-stronghold-security-fancy-boots/ |access-date=2024-05-23 |website=TheGamer |language=en}}</ref> Other main cities include Varrock, Falador, Ardougne (and West Ardougne), and smaller settlements.<ref>{{Cite book |last1=Calvin |first1=Alex |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=3klEEAAAQBAJ&dq=Lumbridge&pg=PA15 |title=Runescape: The First 20 Years--An Illustrated History |last2=JagEx |date=2021-12-07 |publisher=Dark Horse Comics |isbn=978-1-5067-2126-2 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last1=Rosner |first1=Sandra |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=haPaEAAAQBAJ&dq=Lumbridge&pg=PT170 |title=RuneScape: The Official Cookbook |last2=Melendez |first2=Jarrett |date=2024-04-16 |publisher=Simon and Schuster |isbn=979-8-88663-314-6 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Cowdry |first=Calve |date=2023-09-01 |title=Old School RuneScape: 13 Most Useful Achievement Diary Rewards |url=https://www.thegamer.com/old-school-runescape-useful-achievement-diary-rewards/ |access-date=2024-05-23 |website=TheGamer |language=en}}</ref>
Players set their own goals and objectives as they play the game. They can train their in-game skills, engage ] (NPC) monsters and other players in combat and complete ] at their discretion.<ref name="WSJKnights"/> Players interact with each other through trading, ], or by participating in ].

Players set their own goals and objectives as they play the game. They can train their in-game skills, engage ] (NPC) monsters and other players in combat and complete ] at their discretion.<ref name="WSJKnights"/> Players interact with each other through trading, chatting or by participating in ].


===Skills=== ===Skills===
The 25 skills in ''RuneScape'' enable players to perform various activities within the game, allowing for interaction with NPCs, the environment and other players. Players gain ]s in a skill when they utilise it. For example, ] an ore trains the mining skill, and when the player accumulates enough experience points in the skill, their character will "level up".<ref name="Statistics"/> As the skill level rises, the ability to retrieve better ] and produce better products increases, as does the experience awarded if the player utilises new abilities. The total skill level of a player partly symbolises the player's status in the game and the official ''RuneScape'' ] tables can be viewed by anyone. Upon reaching the highest available level in a skill, members may buy a special ] known as a "Cape of Accomplishment" or a "Skill Cape", to symbolise their achievement.<ref name="SkillCapes"/> There are 29 skills in ''RuneScape'', 17 skills available to ] players and an additional 12 for members, which enable players to perform various activities allowing for interaction with NPCs, the environment and other players. Players gain ]s in a skill when they use it. For example, ] an ore trains the mining skill, and when the player accumulates enough experience points in the skill, their character will "level up".<ref name="Statistics"/> As a skill level rises, the ability to retrieve better ] and produce better products increases, as does the experience awarded if the player uses new abilities. The total skill level of a player partly symbolises the player's status in the game and subscribers with a high total level can appear on the ]s.<ref name="NewSite"/> Upon reaching the highest available level in a skill, members may buy a special cape to symbolise their achievement.<ref name="SkillCapes"/>


Some skills, such as ] and ], enable the player to collect raw materials that can be processed into usable items for other skills, such as ] and ] respectively. The items created can be used by the player or sold to shops and other players. Other skills allow players to kill certain NPCs, build their own houses, move around the map with greater ease, ] from various NPCs, ]s and chests located in-game, cook their own food, create their own ]s, ] runestones and ], ] their own plants, ] NPC animals, ] ]s, and ] ] to assist in combat and training skills.<ref name="Skills"/> Some skills, such as woodcutting and fishing, enable the player to collect raw materials that can be processed into usable items for other skills, such as fletching and cooking respectively. The items created can be used by the player or sold to shops and other players. Other skills allow players to kill certain NPCs, build their own houses, move around the map with greater ease, steal from various NPCs, market stalls and chests located in-game, light fires, cook their own food, create their own ]s, ] runestones and weapons, plant their own plants, hunt NPC animals, ] ]s, and ] ] to assist in combat and training skills.<ref name="Skills"/>


===Combat=== ===Combat===
''RuneScape'' features a ] combat system. Combat is an important aspect of the game, allowing players to retrieve items or gold dropped by defeated creatures or players and complete quests. A combat level is an indicator of how powerful a player or NPC is in combat. For players, it is determined by applying a ] to the eight combat skills.<ref name="FightingBasics"/> Players engage in combat by ] on the enemy they want their character to attack and will automatically continue fighting until they kill their opponent, die, or retreat from the fight. Most of the game's weapons are medieval or fantastical in nature, and feature different strengths and weaknesses. Players may also summon a familiar to assist with combat <ref name="SummoningBasics"/> and use potions and the Prayer skill to boost their combat prowess. ''RuneScape'' features a semi-] combat system. Combat is an important aspect of the game, allowing players to defeat monsters to obtain dropped items or to complete quests. A combat level is an indicator of how powerful a player or NPC is in combat. For players, it is determined by applying a ] to their combat skills.<ref name="FightingBasics"/> Players engage in combat by ] on the enemy they want their character to attack and will automatically continue fighting until they kill their opponent, die, or retreat from the fight. Most of the game's weapons are medieval or fantastical in nature, and feature different strengths and weaknesses. Players may summon a familiar to assist with combat,<ref name="SummoningBasics"/> use special attacks called "abilities" to deal additional damage,<ref name="CombatBeta4"/> and use potions and the Prayer skill to boost their combat prowess.

Combat is subdivided into four main categories: ], ], ] and ]. Melee attacks are close range,<ref name="MeleeBasics"/> magic attacks focus on using ]s to cast spells,<ref name="MagicBasics"/> ranged attacks use projectile weapons like arrows, darts or throwing knives,<ref name="RangedBasics"/> and necromancy combines direct attacks with the summoning of ] combatants to fight alongside the player. The first three combat types make up a "Combat Triangle", which governs effectiveness of styles in a ] fashion; melee beats ranged, ranged beats magic, magic beats melee, and each style is neutral to itself.<ref name="CombatTriangle"/> Necromancy is a standalone method of combat and is neutral to the other styles.{{citation needed|date=August 2023}} The advantages and disadvantages of the combat triangle apply to both NPCs and player opponents. Players are not required to choose a ] nor are they bound to a specific category of combat. They may freely change between or combine the styles of combat by switching weapons and armour.{{citation needed|date=December 2022}}


Combat is governed by a ] system. Every combatant has a maximum capacity of life points, and dies when their health is depleted to 0. Lost life points can be recovered by consuming certain food or drinks, or casting abilities. Players who die reappear at a ] of their choice with their life and skill points restored; however, they drop all but three chosen items, as well as certain common items.<ref name="FightingBasics"/><ref name="Dying"/> Dying spawns a gravestone that will hold all of the player's items and will last for an allotted time; however, there are situations in which all items will be lost upon death. If the player does not return in time, the grave will collapse and their items will disappear.<ref name="FightingBasics"/><ref name="Dying"/>
Combat is subdivided into three main categories: ], ] and ]. Melee attacks are close range,<ref name="MeleeBasics"/> magic attacks focus on using runestones to cast spells,<ref name="MagicBasics"/> and ranged attacks use projectile weapons like ]s, ] or ].<ref name="RangedBasics"/> These combat types make up the "Combat Triangle", which states that melee attacks are effective against ranged opponents, ranged attacks are effective against magic opponents and magic attacks are effective against melee opponents.<ref name="CombatTriangle"/> The advantages and disadvantages of the combat triangle apply to both NPCs and player opponents. Unlike most games in the ] genre, ''RuneScape'' does not require players to choose a ] nor are players bound to a specific category of combat. They may freely change between or combine the three styles of combat by switching weapons and armour.


In June 2012 players were invited to beta-test a new combat system named "Evolution of Combat",<ref name="CombatBeta3"/> which included fundamental changes such as re-balancing the Combat Triangle to avoid favouring melee attacks,<ref name="CombatBeta1"/> and replacing special weapon attacks with abilities that produce a range of effects when activated. The system was released on the live game on 20 November 2012.<ref name="CombatBeta4"/> Various polls were also added for players to vote on in game that would determine the result of future content development,<ref name="PowerToThePlayers1"/> some of which would dictate the development of the improved combat system.<ref name="PowerToThePlayers2"/><ref name="PowerToThePlayers3"/> A beta for a separate combat system dubbed "Legacy Mode" was opened to players on 16 June 2014,<ref name="LegacyMode1"/> before being introduced to the live game on 14 July. Legacy Mode allows players to switch to the combat system and interface from prior to June 2012 instead of the Evolution of Combat system.<ref name="LegacyMode2"/>
Players die when their ] are reduced to zero. Lost life points can be recovered by consuming certain food or drinks. Players who die reappear at a ] with their life and skill points restored; however, they drop all but their three most valuable items.<ref name="FightingBasics"/> The items dropped form a ], and they can be retrieved if the player can return to the gravestone before a certain period of time. However, there are situations in which all items will be lost upon death.<ref name="FightingBasics"/>


====Player versus player combat==== ====Player versus player combat====
] combat (sometimes called PvP combat) can be performed in specific controlled mini-games and worlds. The ''Duel Arena'' offers limited ],<ref name="DuelArena"/> while other PvP games offer their own rewards. PvP worlds allow players to engage in combat almost anywhere in Gielinor. ] combat (PvP) can be performed in specific controlled mini-games and in an area known as the Wilderness. The ''Duel Arena'' allows players to stake money and items,<ref name="DuelArena"/> while other PvP games offer their own rewards. In the Wilderness, players can engage in combat provided that their combat levels fall within a certain range of each other, and if a player kills their opponent they will be able to claim their opponent's items as a reward.<ref name="WildernessStarter"/>


Before December 2007, Player Killers were players that went to an area known as the Wilderness to fight other players within a certain combat level range, hoping to kill them and gain their items.<ref name="PKingSpots"/> In December 2007, the Wilderness was altered to prevent players from transferring in-game items for ].<ref name="rwtdevdiary"/> PvP combat was removed from the Wilderness and temporarily restricted to new mini-games named ''Bounty Hunter'' and ''Clan Wars''.<ref name="BountyHunter1"/> ''Bounty Hunter'' was replaced by special ''Bounty Worlds'' on 6 May 2009,<ref name="BountyWorlds"/> in which players are confined to the Wilderness and may be assigned specific targets to kill.<ref name="PvPWorlds3"/> Before December 2007, players went to the Wilderness to fight other players within a certain combat level range, hoping to kill them and gain their items.<ref name="PKingSpots"/> In December 2007, the Wilderness was altered to prevent players from transferring in-game items for ].<ref name="rwtdevdiary"/> PvP combat was removed from the Wilderness and temporarily restricted to new mini-games named ''Bounty Hunter'' and ''Clan Wars''.<ref name="BountyHunter1"/> ''Bounty Hunter'' was replaced by special ''Bounty Worlds'' on 6 May 2009 in which players were confined to the Wilderness and could be assigned specific targets to kill.<ref name="BountyWorlds"/> "PvP Worlds" were introduced on 15 October 2008 where players could fight almost anywhere in Gielinor,<ref name="PvPWorlds2"/> but these and "Bounty Worlds" were removed when PvP combat in the Wilderness was restored on 1 February 2011.<ref name="WildernessReturn"/>

Players can engage each other in combat almost anywhere on ''PvP Worlds'',<ref name="PvPWorlds2"/> similar to ''RuneScape Classic'' where players could opt-in to PvP in most areas outside of Lumbridge.<ref name="PvPWorlds1"/> Players can fight almost anywhere in Gielinor, as long as their combat levels are within a certain range of each other. However, various "safe areas" prohibit combat. If a player dies on a PvP world, they will lose the items they are carrying. When a player kills an opponent, the victorious player can claim items as a reward. To prevent players from using these worlds to transfer in-game items for real currency, the reward is random and based on the combat levels of the combatants as well as the value of any items they carry.<ref name="PvPWorlds1"/><ref name="PvPWorlds3"/>


===Non-player interaction=== ===Non-player interaction===
NPCs populate the realm of Gielinor. Some NPCs, such as shopkeepers and characters in quests, are unavailable for combat. However, most NPCs can be attacked and these are generally referred to as monsters. Monsters range from common, low-level creatures, such as ]s and ]s, to unique and often much more powerful monsters, such as the King Black Dragon, Kalphite Queen, TzTok-Jad, or the Corporeal Beast.<ref name="UseBestiary"/> Non-player characters (NPCs) populate the realm of Gielinor. Some NPCs, such as shopkeepers and some characters in quests, are unavailable for combat. However, most NPCs can be attacked and these are generally referred to as monsters. Monsters range from common, low-level creatures, such as chickens and ]s, to unique and often much more powerful monsters, such as the Queen Black Dragon, Telos, and Vorago.<ref name="UseBestiary"/>

Most monsters have their own strengths and weaknesses, notable exceptions being certain ], which have no specific weaknesses. Demons, for example, have a weak defence against ranged attacks, while metal dragons have extremely high defence against ranged. The weakness of an individual monster is displayed in an interface above its model, along with its combat level and lifepoints.{{citation needed|date=December 2022}}


Each type of monster has its own strengths and weaknesses. ]s, for example, have a weak defence against magical attacks, while most ]s have extremely high defence against magic. Monsters may either be ] or non-aggressive. Non-aggressive monsters ignore players unless attacked, while aggressive monsters may attack all players or may only attack players with combat levels below a specified level, depending on the circumstances or location. This can make certain areas throughout Gielinor dangerous or inconvenient to players with lower combat levels.<ref name="UseBestiary"/> Monsters may either be aggressive or non-aggressive. Non-aggressive monsters ignore players unless attacked, while aggressive monsters may attack all players or may only attack players with combat levels below a specified level, depending on the circumstances or location. This can make certain areas throughout Gielinor dangerous or inconvenient to players with lower combat levels.<ref name="UseBestiary"/>


===Player interaction=== ===Player interaction===
Players can interact with each other through trading, chatting, or by participating in mini-games and activities, some of which are competitive or combative in nature, while others require cooperative or collaborative play. Players can trade items and gold coins with each other, either through a face-to-face trade,<ref name="ControlsTrading"/> or by using a large automated marketplace known as the Grand Exchange.<ref name="Grand Exchange"/> Players using the Grand Exchange can buy and sell items within a set price range, which is governed by an overall market price. This market price is adjusted based on the prices of exchanged items on the Grand Exchange.<ref name="Grand Exchange"/> Players can interact with each other through trading, chatting, or by participating in mini-games and activities, some of which are competitive or combative in nature, while others require cooperative or collaborative play. Players can trade items and gold coins with each other, either through a face-to-face trade,<ref name="ControlsTrading"/> or by using a large automated marketplace known as the Grand Exchange.<ref name="Grand Exchange"/>


The chat system enables players to ] with each other. Public Chat broadcasts text to players in the local area on one server, both by text appearing above the speaker's head and in the message box. Clan Chat broadcasts text in the message box only to certain players tuned into a specific channel, who can be available on any ''RuneScape'' world. Each Clan Chat channel has an owner, who can assign different ranks to individual players; players' ranks dictate their ability to perform administrative tasks within the channel.<ref name="ClanChat"/> Private Chat allows for one-to-one communication through a player-controlled Friends List. Quick Chat allows players to choose from a list of predetermined messages to send as Public Chat, Clan Chat, or Private Chat.<ref name="GeneralChatControls"/> The chat system enables players to communicate with each other. Public Chat broadcasts text to players in the local area on one server, both by text appearing above the speaker's head and in the message box. Friends Chat broadcasts text in the message box only to certain players tuned into a specific channel, who can be available on any ''RuneScape'' world. Each Friends Chat channel has an owner, who can assign different ranks to individual players; players' ranks dictate their ability to perform administrative tasks within the channel. Clan Chat allows members of a ] to communicate with each other through a separate channel.<ref name="ClanChat"/> Quick Chat allows players to choose from a list of predetermined messages to send as Public Chat, Clan Chat, or Friends Chat.<ref name="GeneralChatControls"/>


''RuneScape'' also features independent ]s, although most are only available to paying members. Mini-games take place in certain areas and normally involve specific in-game skills, and usually require players to cooperate or to compete with each other. Examples of these mini-games include ''Castle Wars'', which is similar to the real-life game ], ''Pest Control'', a highly combat-focused mini-game, and ''Fist of Guthix'', where one player (the hunter) tries to stop another player (the hunted) from collecting charges into a magical stone.<ref name="mini-games"/> ''RuneScape'' features independent ]s, although most are only available to paying members. Mini-games take place in certain areas and normally involve specific in-game skills, and usually require players to cooperate or to compete with each other. Examples of these mini-games include ''Castle Wars'', which is similar to the real-life game ], ''Pest Control'', a highly combat-focused mini-game, and ''Fist of Guthix'', where one player (the hunter) tries to stop another player (the hunted) from collecting charges into a magical stone.<ref name="mini-games"/>


===Quests=== ===Quests===
] are series of tasks with a storyline that players can choose to complete. These often have requirements including minimum levels in certain skills, combat levels, quest points and/or the completion of other quests. Players receive various rewards for completion of quests, including money, unique items, access to new areas, quest points and/or increases in skill experience. Some quests require players to work together, and many require players to engage in challenging combat. Quests are grouped into categories based on requirements and difficulty.<ref name="BeginnersGuide"/> Once a player completes all quests in the game, an achievement cape known as the "Quest Point Cape", will be awarded.<ref name="SkillCapes"/> New quests are released periodically. ] are series of tasks with a storyline that players can choose to complete. These often have requirements including minimum levels in certain skills, combat levels, quest points and/or the completion of other quests. Players receive various rewards for completion of quests, including money, unique items, access to new areas, quest points and/or increases in skill experience. Some quests require players to work together, and many require players to engage in challenging combat. Quests are grouped into categories based on requirements and difficulty.<ref name="BeginnersGuide"/> Once a player completes all quests in the game, an achievement item known as the "Quest Point Cape" can be claimed.<ref name="SkillCapes"/> New quests are released periodically.


==Development==
==History and development==
{{Video game timeline
] developed ''RuneScape'' with the assistance of his brother Paul Gower.<ref name="ProquestGower"/> It was originally conceived as a text-based ], but graphics were incorporated early in development, adding it to the ranks of what were then known as "]s".<ref name="runescapeqa"/><ref name="warcryrunescape"/> The first public version of the game utilised a mixture of ] and ] ]. It was released as a beta version on 4 January 2001, and originally operated out of their parents' house in ].<ref name="ProquestGower"/> In December 2001, the Gower brothers, along with Constant Tedder, formed ] to take over the business aspects of running ''RuneScape''.<ref name="AboutJagex"/> Among its early innovations Jagex developed an ] ] ] called RuneScript, which is used by ''RuneScape's'' server for ].<ref name="IDGNews"/> On 27 February 2002, a monthly membership service was introduced, allowing access to additional features including new areas, quests, and items not available to free users.<ref name="AboutJagex"/>
| title = Version History

| compressempty = yes
As the game gained more users, Jagex began planning major changes.<ref name="BiggestUpdate"/> The developers rewrote the game engine, producing a new version of the game with entirely three-dimensional graphics called ''RuneScape 2''. A ] of ''RuneScape 2'' was released to paying members for a testing period beginning on 1 December 2003, and ending on 29 March 2004.<ref name="RS2Launch"/> Upon its official release, ''RuneScape 2'' was renamed simply ''RuneScape'', while the older version of the game was kept online under the name ''RuneScape Classic''. On 12 January 2006, Jagex ] more than 5000 ''Classic'' ] for cheating. To prevent further cheating, ''RuneScape Classic'' was closed to new accounts, and access was restricted to accounts who had played ''Classic'' at least once between 3 August 2005 and 12 January 2006.<ref name="classic restrict"/>
| 2001 = '''RuneScape Classic'''
| 2004 = '''RuneScape 2'''
| 2008 = RuneScape High Detail
| 2013a = Old School RuneScape
| 2013b = '''RuneScape 3'''
}}
Andrew Gower developed ''RuneScape'' with the assistance of his brother Paul Gower.<ref name="ProquestGower"/> It was originally conceived as a text-based ], but graphics were incorporated early in development, adding it to the ranks of what were then known as "]s".<ref name="runescapeqa"/><ref name="warcryrunescape"/> The first public version of the game used a mixture of ] and ] ]. It was released as a beta version on 4 January 2001, and originally operated out of their parents' house in ].<ref name="ProquestGower"/> In December 2001, the Gower brothers, along with Constant Tedder, formed ] to take over the business aspects of running ''RuneScape''.<ref name="PCGamesN"/> Among its early innovations Jagex developed an ] ] ] called RuneScript, which is used by ''RuneScape''{{'}}s server for ].<ref name="IDGNews"/> In February 2002, a monthly membership service was introduced, allowing access to additional features including new areas, quests, and items not available to free users.<ref name="PCGamerPresents"/>


] ]
To support ''RuneScape's'' free content, ] appear on a ] above the playing screen on the ] servers. Since computer users may use ], which may discourage advertisers, Jagex introduced a rule that prohibits players from blocking these advertisements.<ref name="RulesAdverts"/> On 13 July 2006, Jagex signed an exclusive marketing and distribution contract with ] Games,<ref name="wildtangent"/> which granted WildTangent the right to handle advertising in and around ''RuneScape'' in the United States, and to distribute ''RuneScape'' through the WildTangent Games Network,<ref name="wildtangent"/> reaching over 20&nbsp;million consumer PCs.<ref name="MediaBuyerPlanner"/>


As the game gained more users, Jagex began planning major changes.<ref name="BiggestUpdate"/> The developers rewrote the game engine, producing a new version of the game with entirely three-dimensional graphics called ''RuneScape 2''. A ] of ''RuneScape 2'' was released to paying members for a testing period beginning on 1 December 2003, and ending in March 2004.<ref name="PCGamerPresents"/> Upon its official release, ''RuneScape 2'' was renamed simply ''RuneScape'', while the older version of the game was kept online under the name ''RuneScape Classic''. On 12 January 2006, Jagex ] more than 5,000 ''Classic'' ] for cheating. To prevent further cheating, ''Classic'' was closed to new accounts and access was restricted to accounts who had played it at least once between 3 August 2005 and 12 January 2006.<ref name="classic restrict"/> Additional reopenings took place in November 2009, June 2010 and September 2011.<ref name="ReOpened1"/><ref name="ReOpened2"/><ref name="ReOpened3"/>
On 16 May 2006, Jagex upgraded ''RuneScape's'' ], improving the game's loading times and reducing its ] requirements.<ref name="EngineUpgrade2006"/> The engine was upgraded again on 26 June 2007 to allow the addition of future content.<ref name="EngineUpgrade2007"/> On 1 July 2008, Jagex released a beta of their "High Detail" mode for members, which was extended to free players two weeks later.<ref name="RuneScape High Detail Debut"/> Before the launch, Jagex stated that it would be officially revealed at the 2008 ].<ref name="RuneScape High Detail Announcement"/>


To support ''RuneScape''{{'s}} free content, ] appear on a ] above the playing screen on the ] servers. Since computer users may use ], which may discourage advertisers, Jagex introduced a rule that prohibits players from blocking these advertisements.<ref name="RulesAdverts"/> On 13 July 2006, Jagex signed an exclusive marketing and distribution contract with ] Games,<ref name="WildTangent"/> which granted WildTangent the right to handle advertising in and around ''RuneScape'' in the United States, and to distribute ''RuneScape'' through the WildTangent Games Network,<ref name="WildTangent"/> reaching over 20&nbsp;million consumer PCs.<ref name="MediaBuyerPlanner"/>
In September 2009, it was announced that ''RuneScape Classic'' would be re-opened to the public, including a feature where players could rent and administer their own ], giving them the ability to allow or ban any player of their choice, as well as enabling or disabling ]s they want.<ref name="RetroRevival"/> The game was re-opened for two weeks on 11 November 2009, and again for two weeks on 1 June 2010, to paying ''RuneScape'' members, who were told they would be permitted to continue playing ''Classic'' after that time provided they had logged in during the two-week period.<ref name="ReOpened1"/><ref name="ReOpened2"/>


On 16 May 2006, Jagex upgraded ''RuneScape''{{'}}s ], improving the game's loading times and reducing its ] requirements.<ref name="EngineUpgrade2006"/> On 1 July 2008, Jagex released a beta of their "High Detail" mode for members, which was extended to free players two weeks later.<ref name="RuneScape High Detail Debut"/> Before the launch, Jagex stated that it would be revealed at the 2008 ].<ref name="RuneScape High Detail Announcement"/>
In an interview in May 2008, former Jagex CEO Geoff Iddison stated that, "We do plan to go East with it to the Asian market and the Eastern European market too" "''RuneScape'' is not for Japan, but it could work well in Malaysia for example. And where's India in all this? I think ''RuneScape'' is a game that would be adopted in the English-speaking Indian world and the local-speaking Indian world. We're looking at all those markets individually."<ref name="MMOWeekIddison"/> ''RuneScape'' later launched in India through the gaming ] ] on 8 October 2009,<ref name="RSIndia"/> and in France and Germany through ] on 27 May 2010.<ref name="Bigpoint"/>


On 14 February 2007, a ] translation of ''RuneScape'' was introduced,<ref name="GermanLanguage"/> followed by a ] translation on 11 December 2008,<ref name="FrenchLanguage"/> ] on 24 July 2009,<ref name="BPLanguage"/> and ] on 25 April 2013.<ref name="LASLanguage"/> In an interview in May 2008, former Jagex CEO Geoff Iddison stated that, "We do plan to go East with to the Asian market and the Eastern European market too" "''RuneScape'' is not for Japan, but it could work well in Malaysia for example. And where's India in all this? I think ''RuneScape'' is a game that would be adopted in the English-speaking Indian world and the local-speaking Indian world. We're looking at all those markets individually."<ref name="MMOWeekIddison"/> ''RuneScape'' later launched in India through the gaming ] ] on 8 October 2009,<ref name="RSIndia"/> and in France and Germany through ] on 27 May 2010.<ref name="Bigpoint"/>
===Servers===
]
{{As of|August 2009}} there were 171 English ''RuneScape'' ] located throughout the world, which are numbered and referred to as ''worlds'' by players and by ]. They are located in the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, the Netherlands, Australia, Sweden, Finland, Belgium, Ireland, Norway, Denmark, New Zealand, Mexico, France and India.<!-- Brazilian servers are located in Las Vegas, Nevada. The German servers are currently located in Sweden and the Netherlands; please do not add Germany or Brazil. --><ref name="countries"/><ref name="worldlist"/> The large number of servers scattered around the world provides the best connection for players in the most cost-effective manner. Servers are moved or added as the need arises.<ref name="ServerRelocated"/>


On 28 February 2012, an in-game feature was introduced called the "]" that allowed players to win items on a daily basis by spinning the wheel.<ref name="SOF1"/> On 2 April 2012, it became possible for players to spend real-world currency in exchange for additional spins, introducing a form of ] to the game.<ref name="SOF2"/> Jagex CEO Mark Gerhard had previously described microtransactions as "a stealth tax", and the update provoked complaints from players who believed they had been "betrayed" by the change.<ref name="SOF3"/> In July 2012, Jagex released Solomon's General Store, making it possible to spend real currency in exchange for "RuneCoins" that could be spent on cosmetic rewards in the game.<ref name="Solomon"/> On 29 August 2012, Gerhard released a response to this controversy, describing these microtransactions as " a significant role in ensuring that we can continue to support, develop and grow the game for many more years to come." He states that while these decisions are "not necessarily popular", they are made with the future of ''RuneScape'' in mind.<ref name="MMGonMT"/> On 4 February 2014, the Squeal of Fortune was replaced with Treasure Hunter. Rather than spinning a wheel for prizes, players are given keys which are used to open a chest of their choosing.<ref name="TreasureHunter"/> On 26 March 2014, Gerhard reiterated his stance on microtransactions and their importance in updating ''RuneScape'', and announced a partnership with Supersonic ads, allowing players to earn RuneCoins by watching advertisements or sampling products.<ref name="MMGonMT2"/><!--Partnership with Supersonic ads was dropped for one with Peanut Labs, but no reference exists suitable for citation. Relevant post is http://services.runescape.com/m=news/ironman--drop-table-reworks but neither company is named-->
Each ''RuneScape'' server allows up to 2,000 players to log in simultaneously,<ref name="servercap"/> allowing a maximum capacity of more than 340,000 players. The servers are divided into free servers which are available for all players, and servers which are reserved for paying members. Some servers are given activity labels, allowing players performing tasks that require or desire group participation to group together.<ref name="themed servers"/>


On 30 August 2012, Gerhard announced that an ] version of ''RuneScape'' was in development that would allow the game to be played on "your favourite ], platforms and even ]s."<ref name="HTML5Announcement1"/> A video released on 22 March 2013 stated that the new version would be called ''RuneScape 3'' and would use ], and would include a fully customisable ] and improved audio.<ref name="HTML5Announcement2"/><ref name="RS3Orchestra"/> A closed beta of the HTML5 version went live on 17 April 2013, followed by a separate ] version of the new interface on 24 April.<ref name="HTML5Timeline"/> ''RuneScape 3'' was released on 22 July 2013.<ref name="RS3Release"/>
In addition to the English servers, there are two ''RuneScape'' servers where the game is translated into ],<ref name="FrenchServers"/> five servers translated into ],<ref name="GermanServers"/> and six servers translated into ].<ref name="BrazilServers"/> There are also three servers for ''RuneScape Classic''.<ref name="ClassicServers"/>

At RuneFest 2014, Jagex announced that they were developing a new client to replace the HTML5 version, which had never been released from beta due to performance issues. The new client, named NXT, would include improvements to loading times, new graphical effects and better performance.<ref name="NXTAnnouncement"/> Closed betas took place on 19–22 February<ref name="NXTBeta1"/> and 18–21 March 2016,<ref name="NXTBeta2"/> followed by a public release on 18 April 2016.<ref name="NXTRelease"/>

On 23 May 2018, it was announced that due to constantly accumulating bugs and a game engine that has become incompatible with modern support tools of the company, ''RuneScape Classic'' servers would be permanently closed on 6 August 2018.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/a=13/runescape-classic-farewell?oldschool=1|title=RuneScape Classic: Farewell|publisher=Jagex|work=Old School RuneScape|date=23 May 2018|access-date=8 August 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pcgamer.com/runescape-classics-shutdown-was-delayed-just-so-one-player-could-finish-his-last-quest/|title=RuneScape Classic's shutdown was delayed just so one player could finish his last quest|work=]|author=Wood, Austin|date=7 August 2018|access-date=14 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180815055306/https://www.pcgamer.com/runescape-classics-shutdown-was-delayed-just-so-one-player-could-finish-his-last-quest/|archive-date=15 August 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> ''RuneScape'' was released on ] on 14 October 2020.<ref name="SteamRelease"/>

===Graphics and audio===
''RuneScape'' can be run with varying levels of graphical detail. High-detail graphics enhance texture and design, while low-detail graphics provide a cleaner look and can reduce lag on less powerful computers. ''RuneScape'' uses a ] called "RuneTek 5", which provides support for multiple graphics platforms such as ], ] and ]s, as well as graphical effects such as ], ]<ref name="RuneTek"/><ref name="RuneTek5Engine"/> and ].<ref name="ZBuffering"/> The high-detail version incorporates ] and can be rendered using either ] or DirectX.<ref name="RSTrailer"/><ref name="GraphicsOptions"/>

''RuneScape'' features a character-customisation system. ]s are human; however, players may choose the gender, hairstyle, facial hair, skin colour, and clothing options.<ref name="getting_started"/> Appearance is further complemented by wearing or wielding items. Players can express ]s through the use of specialised animations called emotes, some of which are standard and others earned through gameplay or released during holiday events.<ref name="ControlsOptions"/>

''RuneScape'' has original music and ambient soundscapes. The music was designed to define the underlying cultures of the various locations accessible, and ambient sounds, such as the cry of seagulls flying over the ocean, occur in logical places.<ref name="RSAudioTeam"/> The game also incorporates ] in certain areas and situations.<ref name="PCGamerPresents"/> The ''RuneScape 3'' update included ]l music recorded in ], and was scored by ].<ref name="RS3Orchestra"/>

===Servers===
{{As of|November 2011}}, there were 139 English ''RuneScape'' ] located throughout the world, which are numbered and referred to as "worlds" by players and by Jagex.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://oldschool.runescape.com/slu|title=Play Old School RuneScape - World Server List|last=Jagex|website=Oldschool RuneScape|language=en|access-date=3 November 2018}}</ref> They are located in the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, the Netherlands, Australia, Sweden, Finland, Belgium, Ireland, Norway, Denmark, New Zealand, Mexico, France, Lithuania, and India.<!-- Brazilian servers are located in Las Vegas, Nevada. The German servers are currently located in Sweden and the Netherlands; please do not add Germany or Brazil. --><ref name="countries"/><ref name="worldlist"/> Servers are moved or added as the need arises.<ref name="ServerRelocated"/>


Each ''RuneScape'' server allows up to 2,000 players to log in simultaneously,<ref name="servercap"/> allowing a maximum capacity of more than 278,000 players. The servers are divided into free servers which are available for all players, and servers which are reserved for paying members. Some servers are given activity labels, allowing players performing tasks that require or desire group participation to group together.<ref name="themed servers"/>
==Graphics and sound==
{{clear}}
''RuneScape'' can be run with varying levels of graphical detail. High-detail graphics enhance texture and design, while low-detail graphics provide a cleaner look and can reduce lag on less powerful computers. ''RuneScape'' uses a ] called "RuneTek 5", which provides support for multiple graphics platforms such as DirectX, ] and ]s, as well as graphical effects such as ], ]<ref name="RuneTek"/><ref name="RuneTek5Engine"/> and ].<ref name="ZBuffering"/> The high-detail version incorporates ] and can be rendered using either ] or ].<ref name="RSTrailer"/><ref name="GraphicsOptions"/>


===''Old School RuneScape''===
''RuneScape'' features a character-customisation system. Unlike many ], ] are always human; however, players may choose the gender, hairstyle, body type, facial features, skin colour, and clothing options.<ref name="getting_started"/> Appearance is further complemented by wearing or wielding items. Players can express ]s through the use of specialised animations called emotes, some of which are standard and others earned through gameplay or released during holiday events.<ref name="ControlsOptions"/> Standard weapons of the same class, such as ]s, use the same set of animations in combat, while special weapons have their own, distinctive animations.
{{Main|Old School RuneScape}}
In February 2013, a poll was opened allowing players to decide whether Jagex should open a separate incarnation of ''RuneScape'' from August 2007.<ref name="2007GameVote"/> ''Old School RuneScape'' was opened to paying subscribers on 22 February 2013 after the poll received 50,000 votes,<ref name="2007ServersOpen"/> and a free-to-play version was later released on 19 February 2015.<ref name="2007F2POpen"/> It was originally created as an exact copy of ''RuneScape'' from August 2007 and receives regular content additions. ''Old School RuneScape'' is entirely community based; for any proposed update or idea to pass into the game, it needs at least 75% of the community to vote 'Yes' for it, and if it does not pass it will either be dropped or reconstructed and re-polled so that the players may find the update more acceptable.<ref name="polling"/> On 17 July 2017, Jagex announced a mobile port of ''Old School RuneScape'', which was released in 2018.<ref name="MobileAnnouncement">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/runescape-on-mobile--coming-soon|title=RuneScape on Mobile – Coming Soon|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=17 July 2017|access-date=6 August 2017}}</ref>


==={{Anchor|DarkScape}}''DarkScape''===
''RuneScape'' has music, ] and "real world" ]s,<ref name="RealSounds"/> and ambient noises throughout Gielinor. The music is designed to define the underlying cultures of the various locations accessible. Sound effects, such as the "sploosh" heard when a lobster trap is submerged in water, are heard as players train their skills. Ambient noises, such as the cry of ]s flying over the ], occur in logical places.<ref name="RSAudioTeam"/> The game engine also incorporates ] in the game's tutorial.<ref name="Voices1"/>
On 16 September 2015 Jagex released ''DarkScape'', a separate version of ''RuneScape'' which featured open-world player versus player combat. ''DarkScape'' was originally released with most of ''RuneScape''{{'}}s content, but received separate content updates. ''DarkScape'' was completely free to play, with some additional benefits reserved for paying subscribers.<ref name="DarkScape"/> ''DarkScape'' closed on 28 March 2016 due to lack of interest.<ref name="DarkScapeClosure"/>


==Community== ==Community==
A set of ] are provided by Jagex on the ''RuneScape'' website. On the forums, players are able to participate in game discussions, arrange to buy or sell items, post suggestions for game improvements, vote in ], and otherwise interact with the community. A user can set an avatar, have a separate display name<ref name="DisplayNames"/><ref name="ForumAvatar"/> and set an automatic ]. User profiles display the recent posts a user has made along with the option to disable ]s. The privilege of posting on the forums is limited to paying members, as well as free players with a total level exceeding 350.<ref name="ForumPosting"/>
]
A set of official ] are provided by Jagex on the ''RuneScape'' website. On the forums, players are able to participate in game discussions, take part in player-made ]s, arrange to buy or sell items, post suggestions for game improvements, vote in ], and otherwise interact with the community. Unlike many MMORPG official forums, the ''RuneScape'' forums have limited features. A user can set an avatar and have a separate display name,<ref name="DisplayNames"/><ref name="ForumAvatar"/> but cannot set an automatic ]. User profiles only display the number of posts a user has made along with the option to disable ]s. Users cannot use text formatting, post links, nor display images.<ref name="salsforumguide"/> The privilege of posting on the forums is limited to paying members, as well as free players with a total level exceeding 350.<ref name="ForumPosting"/>


Between 24 September 2002 and 9 December 2004, players could submit questions via ] to the ''RuneScape'' ], which were published in the form of letters.<ref name="SaradominEnlightens"/> On 26 September 2005, a new feature known as ''Postbag from the Hedge'' was introduced, where players can submit questions via e-mail to a ] in the game.<ref name="ReadersLetters"/> Players can also submit original ''RuneScape'' related artwork (such as ]s, comics, drawings and paintings), some of which is displayed in a gallery on the ''RuneScape'' website.<ref name="PlayersGallery"/> Between 24 September 2002 and 9 December 2004, players could submit questions via ] to the ''RuneScape'' gods, which were published in the form of letters.<ref name="SaradominEnlightens"/> On 26 September 2005, a new feature known as ''Postbag from the Hedge'' was introduced, where players can submit questions via e-mail to a ] in the game.<ref name="ReadersLetters"/> Players can also submit original ''RuneScape'' related artwork (such as sculptures, comics, drawings and paintings), some of which is displayed in a gallery on the ''RuneScape'' website.<ref name="PlayersGallery"/>


During various holidays, including Easter, ], ], ] and Christmas, Jagex hosts a holiday event in a specific location in Gielinor. Players who successfully complete the required tasks during the event receive a reward such as an item or an emote, allowing the player character to perform a gesture conveying an emotion.<ref name="holidayitems"/> Holiday items released prior to 2002 are tradable among players, and due to their rarity are worth significant amounts of money on the player market.<ref name="WhitePartyhatPrice"/> Holiday items after Christmas 2002 are untradable and limited to one per player, and can also be retrieved if lost.<ref name="holidayitems"/> During various holidays, including ], ] and ], Jagex hosts a holiday event in a specific location in Gielinor. Players who successfully complete the required tasks during the event receive a reward such as an item or an emote, allowing the player character to perform a gesture conveying an emotion.<ref name="holidayitems"/> Holiday items released prior to 2002 are tradeable among players, and due to their rarity are worth significant amounts of money on the player market.<ref name="WhitePartyhatPrice"/> Holiday items after Christmas 2002 are untradeable and limited to one per player and can be retrieved if lost.<ref name="holidayitems"/>


Various ''RuneScape'' ]s have been established by players, which are a source of information about the game.<ref name="Fansites"/> In the early days of ''RuneScape'', the official website had a page which listed links to several fansites, but has since been removed.<ref name="runelinks"/> In order to provide players with an alternative, Jagex introduced the ],<ref name="KnowledgeBase"/> which offers information on gameplay, the main ''RuneScape'' rules, and account security.<ref name="WelcomeToKB"/> For account security reasons, Jagex discourages the discussion of fansites within the game or the official forums – and a rule specifically prohibits sharing ].<ref name="RulesSecurity"/> A major fansite has criticised Jagex for not recognising fansites' contributions to the development of its game.<ref name="WhoNeedsFansites"/> However, as a result of announcements made in 2009, Jagex has promised to increase communication with fansites.<ref name="FansitesTies"/> Various ''RuneScape'' ]s have been established by players, which are a source of information about the game.<ref name="Fansites"/> For account security reasons, Jagex discourages the discussion of fansites within the game or the forums – and a rule specifically prohibits sharing ].<ref name="RulesSecurity"/> A major fansite has criticised Jagex for not recognising fansites' contributions to the development of its game.<ref name="WhoNeedsFansites"/> However, as a result of announcements made in 2009, Jagex promised to increase communication with fansites.<ref name="FansitesTies"/>

On 28 July 2014, ] functionality was integrated into the game, allowing players to ] their gameplay or view other streams from within the game.<ref name="Twitch"/>


===Rules and cheating=== ===Rules and cheating===
Jagex has employed rules for player conduct, such as rules against offensive language, ], and ] abuse.<ref name="RulesOfRuneScape"/> To enforce the rules, an in-game feature exists that allows a player to send a report to Jagex if they notice another player breaking a rule.<ref name="ReportingAbuse"/> ''RuneScape'' also uses three types of ]: Jagex Moderators, who are actual Jagex employees; Player Moderators, who are trusted players that enforce the rules within the game; and Forum Moderators, who are trusted players who police the game forums.<ref name="Moderators"/> Players who repeatedly break the rules may be temporarily or permanently ] from playing the game.<ref name="ReportingAbuse"/> Jagex has employed rules for player conduct, such as rules against offensive language, ], and ] abuse.<ref name="RulesOfRuneScape"/> To enforce the rules, an in-game feature exists that allows a player to send a report to Jagex if they notice another player breaking a rule.<ref name="ReportingAbuse"/> ''RuneScape'' also uses four types of ]: Jagex Moderators, who are Jagex employees; Local Moderators, who are employees of Jagex's partners in certain territories; Player Moderators, who are trusted players that enforce the rules within the game; and Forum Moderators, who are trusted players who monitor the game forums.<ref name="Moderators"/> Players who repeatedly break the rules may be temporarily or permanently ] from playing the game.<ref name="ReportingAbuse"/>


There are also rules prohibiting the use of third-party software to play the game, known as macroing, and the sale of game items for real money through ]. In an attempt to stop cheating, Jagex made direct interaction with the ] difficult, established rules against the practice,<ref name="RulesMacroing"/> and introduced random events that required player input to complete.<ref name="random events"/> In response to continued ], Jagex issued a statement condemning real-world trading, stating that they were seizing billions of gold and banning thousands of accounts every week for cheating, and promising to increase their efforts to prevent real-world trading in the game.<ref name="BotsAndRWT"/> There are also rules prohibiting the use of third-party software to play the game, known as "macroing" or "botting", and the sale of game items for real money through ]. In an attempt to stop cheating, Jagex made direct interaction with the ] difficult, established rules against the practice,<ref name="RulesMacroing"/> and introduced random events that required player input to complete.<ref name="random events"/> In response to continued ], Jagex issued a statement condemning real-world trading, stating that they were seizing billions of gold and banning thousands of accounts every week for cheating, and promising to increase their efforts to prevent real-world trading in the game.<ref name="BotsAndRWT"/>


From October 2007 to December 2007, Jagex began releasing a series of updates to restrict unbalanced trades. The updates limited the value of items staked in ]s, removed player-versus-player combat from the Wilderness, made valuable player drops invisible to other players, introduced gravestones for the items of dead players, instituted the LootShare, CoinShare, and player-assist systems, and established the Grand Exchange, a ]-like trade system for ''RuneScape'' goods. Collectively, these changes were designed to make it extremely difficult for real-world traders to distribute gold and items to players.<ref name="rwtdevdiary"/> In December 2010, a ] was opened to decide whether to restore unbalanced trades and player-versus-player combat in the Wilderness,<ref name="WildernessVote1"/> which closed with 1.2 million votes cast and 91% of voters in favour of the proposal.<ref name="WildernessVote2"/> From October 2007 to December 2007, Jagex began releasing a series of updates to restrict unbalanced trades. The updates limited the value of items staked in ]s, removed player-versus-player combat from the Wilderness, made valuable player drops invisible to other players, introduced gravestones for the items of dead players, instituted systems for assisting players with skills and sharing loot among groups of players, and established the Grand Exchange, a ]-like trade system for ''RuneScape'' goods. Collectively, these changes were designed to make it extremely difficult for real-world traders to distribute gold and items to players.<ref name="rwtdevdiary"/> These features were restored on 1 February 2011 following a ] among players in December 2010 on whether or not to do so.<ref name="WildernessReturn"/><ref name="WildernessVote1"/>


On 25 October 2011, Jagex released an anti-bot system<ref name="BotBustRelease"/> code-named the 'ClusterFlutterer', as part of a game update intended to permanently prevent "reflection" bots from working. The release of this was nicknamed the "Bot Nuke", and was estimated to have banned 98% of the accounts that were using bots, eventually resulting in 7.7 million account bans.<ref name="PCGamerPresents"/> From 26 September 2012 until its removal on 20 August 2018,<ref name="BotanyBay1"/> accounts that were banned for using bots were sent to an isolated area named "Botany Bay" to be given an ultimate punishment as decided by players.<ref name="BotanyBay2"/>
==Press reception==
'']'' stated in December 2003, that while the "traditional ] values of ], slaying ]s and developing your character in a familiar ] setting" will not "have the big boys trembling in their +2 Boots of Subscriber Gathering," this is offset by the game's accessibility through a web browser, "compounded by a version of the game that allows free adventuring player the opportunity to upgrade to a members' account", describing the game as "an unsurprising success".<ref name="PCGamerUK"/>


On 25 September 2013, Jagex introduced bonds to the game, in-game items that can be purchased using real currency then traded with other players or exchanged for membership, RuneCoins or additional spins on the game's Squeal of Fortune. Bonds were introduced to allow players to exchange real currency for in-game benefits legitimately, a move described by CEO Mark Gerhard as "essential for the future of ''RuneScape''".<ref name="BondAnnouncement"/> One week later, Jagex reported that the amount of in-game coins brought in by gold farmers was down by 81%; real-world trading was down by 61% and the wealth of those trades was down by 63%.<ref name="Bonds1Week"/>
The ] 2006 Buzz Log stated that, "while it may not be as easy on the eyes as some other popular online RPG games, like ], ], or ], RuneScape is still a lot better way to kill time than pushing around cells in a ]".<ref name="YahooBuzzLog"/> A 2007 JustRPG review summarised ''RuneScape'' as "a fun, addictive game, and while the graphics may not be perfect, for a game written in Java, they aren't bad. The skills are varied, the community is alright, and it'll eat up your time if you aren't careful", giving it a score of 83%.<ref name="JustRPG"/>


===Falador Massacre===
In its 2008 ] profile of the game, Developmag.com stated that whilst Jagex's changes to curtail real world trading resulted in "a wave of user criticism... growth is understood to have resumed since". Its analysis stated that "RuneScape’s ] appeal lies in its simplicity and accessibility (both financial and technical). It has tapped into the vast market of games players unwilling or unable to spend premium prices on PCs capable of playing the latest, expensive, ]-intensive games. Its core gameplay concepts are very similar to its retail-distributed RPG and MMORPG analogues."<ref name="develop"/> In August 2008, ''RuneScape'' was recognised by the ] as the world's most popular free MMORPG. Jagex was presented with a certificate to commemorate the achievement at the 2008 ].<ref name="Guinness Records"/> A 2009 ] article criticised ''RuneScape's'' in-game community for being unfriendly to newcomers, although they have stated that the Fan-Forum community is more approachable.<ref name="EuroGamer1"/>
The Falador Massacre was a historic bug that occurred on 6 June 2006.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bishop |first=Sam |title=Runescape marks the anniversary of the Falador Massacre |url=https://www.gamereactor.eu/runescape-marks-the-anniversary-of-the-falador-massacre/ |website=Gamereactor UK|date=8 June 2016 }}</ref> The bug caused several players to retain the ability to attack other players after leaving a designated ] location.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Morrison |first=Angus |date=6 June 2016 |title=Old School Runescape celebrates the Falador Massacre glitch |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/old-school-runescape-celebrates-the-falador-massacre-glitch/ |newspaper=PC Gamer}}</ref> Ordinarily, players are only allowed to attack other players in player-owned houses, minigames, or in the Wilderness. According to a statement made by a Jagex employee, the bug was caused by insufficient testing of an update that saw the release of a new game skill, Construction, wherein players could create their own houses in which PvP combat could take place.


Although the bug was considered quite negative at the time of occurrence, Jagex has since recognized it as a historic event in the franchise, and has created in-game reenactments in both ''RuneScape''<ref>{{Cite web |last=Thylin |first=Atle |date=7 June 2016 |title=RuneScape commemorates the 10 year anniversary of the Falador Massacre |url=https://www.gamezone.com/news/runescape-commemorates-the-10-year-anniversary-of-the-falador-massacre-3440121/ |website=GameZone}}</ref> and ''Old School RuneScape''.<ref>{{Cite web |title=World 666: Please bank your items | date=3 June 2016 |url=https://secure.runescape.com/m=news/world-666-please-bank-your-items?oldschool=1}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Morrison |first=Angus |date=6 June 2016 |title=Old School Runescape celebrates the Falador Massacre glitch |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/old-school-runescape-celebrates-the-falador-massacre-glitch/ |access-date=22 June 2021 |website=PC Gamer |language=en-US}}</ref> On 6 June 2016, Jagex created two unique and isolated game servers (worlds 111 for RS3 and 666 for OSRS, commemorating 6/6/06)<ref>{{cite news |last1=Messner |first1=Steven |date=6 June 2016 |title=Runescape Marks Anniversary Of 6/6/6 Glitchy Massacre |language=en |work=Rock Paper Shotgun |publisher=Reedpop |agency=Gamer Network Limited |url=https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/runescape-falador-massacre-anniversary |access-date=7 June 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=RuneScape marks anniversary of a somber player massacre with… another massacre &#124; Massively Overpowered |date=6 June 2016 |url=https://massivelyop.com/2016/06/06/runescape-marks-anniversary-of-a-somber-player-massacre-with-another-massacre/}}</ref> wherein PvP was enabled and players could attack an ] named after "Durial321", one of the more well known players to have been affected by the bug.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Van Houten |first1=Rian |date=4 June 2021 |title=Runescape Marks Anniversary Of 6/6/6 Glitchy Massacre |language=en |work=IGN Nordic |url=https://nordic.ign.com/runescape-iphone/42560/feature/runescape-20th-anniversary-interview-the-past-present-and-future |access-date=26 September 2021}}</ref> World 666 also played an in-game cover of the song "]" by ], which was the song used in the original video of the event. The track was removed from the game when the event was over.<ref>{{cite tweet|number=739741578705698816|user=JagexAsh|title=@Protpaladin9000 I wasn't involved. Mod Bond did that track, but I gather we've been asked not to keep that parody track permanently.<!-- full text of tweet that Twitter returned to the bot (excluding links) added by TweetCiteBot. This may be better truncated or may need expanding (TW limits responses to 140 characters) or case changes. -->|date=6 June 2016}}</ref> The bug's reception has become part of ].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Marasigan |first=Marc |date=7 June 2016 |title=Runescape Commemorates 10th Anniversary of 6/6/6 Massacre |url=https://mmos.com/news/runescape-commemorates-10th-anniversary-of-666-massacre |access-date=22 June 2021 |website=MMOs.com |language=en-US}}</ref> '']'' called the bug "One of the best all-time MMO bugs".<ref>{{Cite news |last=Morrison |first=Angus|date=2016-06-06 |title=Old School Runescape celebrates the Falador Massacre glitch |language=en |work=PC Gamer |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/old-school-runescape-celebrates-the-falador-massacre-glitch/ |access-date=2023-07-15}}</ref>
===Player reception===

In December 2007, updates by Jagex removed free player-versus-player combat and unbalanced trading in order to rid the game of activities involving real currency being traded for virtual goods.<ref name="BountyHunter1"/><ref name="BalancedTrade"/> The updates also affected legitimate players, resulting in many of them actively complaining on the forums.<ref name="ComplainForums"/> Jagex issued a ] ] admitting the updates may not have been an ideal replacement for what was removed, requesting patience and promising to remedy potential problems with updates in the future.<ref name="WordAboutUpdates"/> During the changes, subscription numbers fell by 60,000.<ref name="times growth"/> No figures were given as to how many of those subscriptions belonged to legitimate players and how many to gold farmers. In an interview in February 2008, Jagex's head of content stated that, "we were really afraid we were going to lose our members over this change, because other games had in the past. But we are very, very pleased to say that we have lost practically none of our members."<ref name="EuroGamer2"/>
==Reception==
'']'' stated in December 2003, that while the "traditional values of questing, slaying monsters and developing your character in a familiar medieval setting" will not "have the big boys trembling in their +2 Boots of Subscriber Gathering," this is offset by the game's accessibility through a web browser, "compounded by a version of the game that allows free adventuring player the opportunity to upgrade to a members' account", describing the game as "an unsurprising success".<ref name="PCGamerUK"/>

The ] 2006 Buzz Log stated that, "while it may not be as easy on the eyes as some other popular , like '']'', '']'', or '']'', ''RuneScape'' is still a lot better way to kill time than pushing around cells in a ]".<ref name="YahooBuzzLog"/> A 2007 JustRPG review summarised ''RuneScape'' as "a fun, addictive game, and while the graphics may not be perfect, for a game written in Java, they aren't bad. The skills are varied, the community is alright, and it'll eat up your time if you aren't careful", giving it a score of 83%.<ref name="JustRPG"/>

In its 2008 ] profile of the game, Developmag.com stated that whilst Jagex's changes to curtail real world trading resulted in "a wave of user criticism... growth is understood to have resumed since". Its analysis stated that "''RuneScape''{{'}}s ] appeal lies in its simplicity and accessibility (both financial and technical). It has tapped into the vast market of games players unwilling or unable to spend premium prices on PCs capable of playing the latest, expensive, ]-intensive games. Its core gameplay concepts are very similar to its retail-distributed RPG and MMORPG analogues."<ref name="develop"/> In August 2008, ''RuneScape'' was recognised by the ] as the world's most popular free MMORPG. Jagex was presented with a certificate to commemorate the achievement at the 2008 ].<ref name="Guinness Records"/> A 2009 ] article criticised ''RuneScape''{{'}}s in-game community for being unfriendly to newcomers, although they have stated that the fan-forum community is more approachable.<ref name="EuroGamer1"/>

An April 2011 review by MMORPG.com was complimentary of ''RuneScape'', stating that "For anyone looking for that "old-school" experience but with also tons of progression, refinement, and unique ideas, RuneScape is easily recommendable", but criticised the game's combat system and emphasis on ]. "...the genre feels slightly passed clicking an enemy and watching two swords clunk mercilessly into opposing body forms...''RuneScape'' has grind in abundance and while this is not entirely a bad thing, it will put some players off looking for a slightly easier and more casual experience".<ref name="MMORPG.com"/> The game received the "Role-Playing Game" award at ] Awards 2018.<ref name="TIGAAwards2018"/>

On 10 December 2007, updates by Jagex removed free player-versus-player combat and unbalanced trading in order to rid the game of activities involving real currency being traded for virtual goods.<ref name="BountyHunter1"/><ref name="BalancedTrade"/> The updates also affected legitimate players, resulting in many of them actively complaining on the forums.<ref name="ComplainForums"/> Jagex issued a ] News article admitting the updates may not have been an ideal replacement for what was removed, requesting patience and promising to remedy potential problems with updates in the future.<ref name="WordAboutUpdates"/> During the changes, subscription numbers fell by 60,000.<ref name="times growth"/> No figures were given as to how many of those subscriptions belonged to legitimate players and how many to gold farmers. In an interview in February 2008, Jagex's head of content stated that, "we were really afraid we were going to lose our members over this change, because other games had in the past. But we are very, very pleased to say that we have lost practically none of our members."<ref name="EuroGamer2"/>

In December 2010, a ] was opened to decide whether to restore unbalanced trades and player-versus-player combat in the Wilderness,<ref name="WildernessVote1"/> which closed with 1.2 million votes cast and 91% of voters in favour of the proposal,<ref name="WildernessVote2"/> and these features were restored on 1 February 2011.<ref name="WildernessReturn"/> A second referendum was announced in February 2013 to decide whether to run a separate version of the game dating from 2007,<ref name="2007GameVote"/> closing on 1 March 2013 with almost 450,000 votes.<ref name="2007GameVoteResult"/> Servers for the 2007 version were opened on 22 February 2013 once 50,000 votes were collected.<ref name="2007ServersOpen"/>

===Revenue===
In 2018, it was reported that ''RuneScape'' had generated over US$1 billion in lifetime revenue since its original launch.<ref name="Runescape billion dollar revenue">{{Cite web |last=Dring |first=Christopher |date=10 September 2018 |title=Jagex profit and revenue spike in another record year |url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2018-09-07-jagex-profit-and-revenue-spikes-in-another-record-year |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200722194342/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2018-09-07-jagex-profit-and-revenue-spikes-in-another-record-year |archive-date=22 July 2020 |access-date=22 July 2020 |publisher=]}}</ref> ''RuneScape'' annually generates over £100 million in revenue and over £50 million in profit.<ref name="Runescape annual earnings">{{Cite web |last=Symcox |first=Jonathan |date=2 March 2021 |title=Inside UK's £1 billion videogame franchise RuneScape |url=https://businesscloud.co.uk/inside-uks-1-billion-videogame-franchise-runescape/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210419195008/https://businesscloud.co.uk/inside-uks-1-billion-videogame-franchise-runescape/ |archive-date=19 April 2021 |access-date=4 March 2021 |publisher=Businesscloud}}</ref>

==See also==
* ]


==References== ==References==
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Basics|accessdate=2006-10-09|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex Ltd}}</ref><ref name="SummoningBasics">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/sym_summoning_the_basics#familiars_and_combat|title=Summoning – The Basics|accessdate=2009-06-20|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex Ltd}}</ref><ref name="MeleeBasics">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/melee_the_basics|title=Melee – The Basics|accessdate=2006-10-14|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex Ltd}}</ref><ref name="MagicBasics">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/magic_the_basics|title=Magic – The Basics |accessdate=2006-10-14|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex Ltd}}</ref><ref name="RangedBasics">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/ranged_the_basics|title=Ranged – The Basics|accessdate=2006-10-14|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex Ltd}}</ref><ref name="CombatTriangle">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/combat_triangle_and_tactics|title=Combat Triangle and Tactics|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex Ltd|accessdate=2009-09-21}}</ref><ref name="DuelArena">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/combat_duelling|title=The Duel Arena|publisher=Jagex Ltd|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|accessdate=2007-11-29}}</ref><ref name="PKingSpots">{{cite web|url=http://runescape.salmoneus.net/pking_spots.html|title=PKing Spots|author=Mr. Bubbles|accessdate=2009-05-07|publisher=Sal's Realm of RuneScape}}</ref><ref name="PvPWorlds1">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=1370|title=Future PvP Updates|accessdate=2008-08-15|work=RuneScape News|publisher=Jagex Ltd|date=2008-08-15}}</ref><ref name="rwtdevdiary">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/diary06|title=RuneScape vs. Real-world Trading|accessdate=2008-06-29|work=RuneScape Development Diaries|publisher=Jagex Ltd}}</ref><ref name="BountyHunter1">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=1006|title=Wilderness Changes, Bounty Hunter and Clan Wars!|accessdate=2009-06-20|work=RuneScape News|publisher=Jagex Ltd|date=2007-12-10}}</ref><ref name="BountyWorlds">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=1813|title=Bounty Hunter Wilderness-only PvP|accessdate=2009-06-20|work=RuneScape News|publisher=Jagex Ltd|date=2009-05-06}}</ref><ref name="PvPWorlds2">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=1442|title=News Item: PvP Worlds|accessdate=2008-10-15|work=RuneScape News|publisher=Jagex Ltd|date=2008-10-15}}</ref><ref name="PvPWorlds3">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/pvp_worlds|title=PvP Worlds|accessdate=2008-12-19|publisher=Jagex Ltd|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base}}</ref><ref name="BeginnersGuide">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/beginners_guide#quests|title=Beginners' Guide|publisher=Jagex Ltd|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|accessdate=2007-03-27}}</ref><ref name="UseBestiary">{{cite web|url=http://tip.it/runescape/index.php?page=how_to_bestiary.htm|title=How to use the Bestiary|accessdate=2007-02-22|publisher=Rune Tips}}</ref><ref name="mini-games">{{cite web|url=http://www.tip.it/runescape/?page=activities.htm|title=Activities and Mini Quests|accessdate=2010-10-12|publisher=Rune Tips}}</ref><ref name="random events">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/random_events|title=Random Events|accessdate=2008-07-04|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex Ltd}}</ref><ref name="ControlsTrading">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/controls_trading|title=Controls – Trading|accessdate=2009-04-12|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex Ltd}}</ref><ref name="Grand Exchange">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/controls_the_grand_exchange|title=Controls – The Grand Exchange|accessdate=2009-04-12|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex Ltd}}</ref><ref name="ClanChat">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/controls_clan_chat|title=Controls – Clan Chat|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex Ltd|accessdate=2008-10-23}}</ref><ref name="GeneralChatControls">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/controls_chat|title=Controls – Chat|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex Ltd|accessdate=2008-10-23}}</ref><ref name="RSTrailer">{{cite web|url=http://www.gametrailers.com/video/trailer-runescape/35739|title=Runescape Trailer|accessdate=2008-07-04|publisher=Gametrailers.com|year=2008|author=Jagex Ltd}}</ref><ref name="GraphicsOptions">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/controls_display_options|title=Controls - Display Options|publisher=Jagex Ltd|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|accessdate=2010-11-10}}</ref><ref name="RuneTek">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=devblog/view_post.ws?post_id=27|title=Game Engine – RuneTek 5|work=RuneScape Developers' Blogs|date=2009-08-26|accessdate=2009-08-29|publisher=Jagex Ltd}}</ref><ref name="RuneTek5Engine">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=2171|title=RuneTek 5 Game Engine|publisher=Jagex Ltd|work=RuneScape News|date=2009-09-02|accessdate=2009-09-02}}</ref><ref name="ZBuffering">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/z-buffering|title=Z-buffering|publisher=Jagex Ltd|work=RuneScape News|date=2010-9-15|accessdate=2010-9-24}}</ref><ref name="ControlsOptions">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/controls_options#emotes|title=Controls – Options|publisher=Jagex Ltd|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref><ref name="RSAudioTeam">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/diary03|title=Audio Team – Music, Sound Effects and the Sound Bank|publisher=Jagex Ltd|work=RuneScape Development Diaries|accessdate=2009-09-12}}</ref><ref name="Voices1">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=devblog/view_post.ws?post_id=93|title=Look Who's Talking|publisher=Jagex Ltd|work=RuneScape Developers' Blogs|date=2010-04-29|accessdate=2010-05-01}}</ref><ref name="RealSounds">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/new-combat-sound-effects|title=New Combat Sound Effects|author=Mod Bond|publisher=Jagex Ltd|work=RuneScape News|date=2010-10-18|accessdate=2010-10-18}}</ref><ref name="DisplayNames">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=2270|title=Display Names|work=RuneScape News|publisher=Jagex Ltd|date=2009-10-01|accessdate=2009-10-13}}</ref><ref name="ForumAvatar">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/controls_photobooth#forum_avatars|title=Controls – Photo Booth|publisher=Jagex Ltd|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|accessdate=2009-10-07}}</ref><ref name="salsforumguide">{{cite web|url=http://runescape.salmoneus.net/rs_forums.html|title=Guide to the Official RuneScape Forums|last=Rzk2|coauthors=Danny-, Queen Skilla, Stuud, M__a__t__t_2, Big Tree, Thomas154321, and Ghostfoot, Ambo100|publisher=Sal's Realm of RuneScape|accessdate=2009-04-10}}</ref><ref name="ForumPosting">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/free-player-forum-access-expanded-|title=Free Player Forum Access Expanded|work=RuneScape News|author=Mod SteveW|publisher=Jagex Ltd|date=2010-11-05|accessdate=2010-11-08}}</ref><ref name="SaradominEnlightens">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=337|title=Saradomin Enlightens|publisher=Jagex Ltd|work=RuneScape News|accessdate=2009-02-27|date=2004-12-09}}</ref><ref name="ReadersLetters">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=490|title=New readers letters|accessdate=2009-04-07|date=2005-09-26|work=RuneScape News|publisher=Jagex Ltd}}</ref><ref name="PlayersGallery">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/gallery|title=Players' Gallery|accessdate=2009-02-27|publisher=Jagex Ltd}}</ref><ref name="holidayitems">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/holiday_items_guide|title=Holiday Items Guide|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex Ltd|accessdate=2009-04-10}}</ref><ref name="WhitePartyhatPrice">{{cite web|url=http://itemdb-rs.runescape.com/viewitem.ws?obj=1048|title=Price of White Partyhat|work=RuneScape Grand Exchange|publisher=Jagex Ltd|accessdate=2009-02-27}}</ref><ref name="Fansites">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/fansites|title=Fansites|publisher=Jagex Ltd|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|accessdate=2010-06-07}}</ref><ref name="runelinks">{{cite web|url=http://server1.runescape.com/runelinks.html |archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20011024045004/http://server1.runescape.com/runelinks.html|archivedate=2001-10-24|title=RuneScape Links Page|accessdate=2001-08-24|publisher=Jagex Ltd|year=2001}}</ref><ref name="KnowledgeBase">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=556|title=New Improved Game Guide Released|accessdate=2009-05-08|date=2006-03-13|work=RuneScape News|publisher=Jagex Ltd}}</ref><ref name="WelcomeToKB">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/manual|title=Welcome to the RuneScape Knowledge Base|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|accessdate=2009-05-08|publisher=Jagex Ltd}}</ref><ref name="RulesSecurity">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/rules_of_conduct#security|title=Rules of RuneScape – Security|publisher=Jagex Ltd|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|accessdate=2009-05-12}}</ref><ref name="WhoNeedsFansites">{{cite web|url=http://tip.it/runescape/index.php?times=78|title=So Who Needs Fansites Anyway?|accessdate=2009-05-08|date=2007-01-26|publisher=Rune Tips}}</ref><ref name="FansitesTies">{{cite web|url=http://www.tip.it/runescape/index.php?times=210|title=Re: The Future of RuneScape|accessdate=2009-05-08|date=2009-02-15|publisher=Rune Tips}}</ref><ref name="RulesOfRuneScape">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/rules_of_conduct|title=Rules of RuneScape|publisher=Jagex Ltd|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|accessdate=2009-05-12}}</ref><ref name="ReportingAbuse">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/how_do_i_report_abuse|title=Reporting Abuse|publisher=Jagex Ltd|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|accessdate=2009-01-18}}</ref><ref name="Moderators">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/moderators|title=Moderators|publisher=Jagex Ltd|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|accessdate=2009-05-16}}</ref><ref name="getting_started"/><ref name="BotsAndRWT">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=785|title=Bots and real-world trading|publisher=Jagex Ltd|work=RuneScape News|accessdate=2007-05-30|date=2007-05-01}}</ref><ref name="WildernessVote1">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/wilderness-and-free-trade-referendum|title=Wilderness and Free Trade Referendum|author=Gerhard, Mark|publisher=Jagex Ltd|work=RuneScape News|date=2010-12-24|accessdate=2010-12-24}}</ref><ref name="WildernessVote2">{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2011-01-17-runescape-referendum-restores-free-trade|title=RuneScape referendum restores content|author=Purchese, Robert|publisher=]|date=2011-01-17|accessdate=2011-01-19}}</ref><ref name="PCGamerUK">{{Cite news|author=Sutherns, Mark|title=RuneScape 2: browser-based Goblin basher goes 3D|work=] UK, issue 129|page=145|publisher=]|date=2003-12}}</ref><ref name="YahooBuzzLog">{{cite web|url=http://buzz.yahoo.com/buzzlog/9096/the-rundown-o-runescape|title=The Rundown on RuneScape|author=Hurd, Gordon|publisher=]|date=2006-05-08|accessdate=2006-08-08}}</ref><ref name="JustRPG">{{cite web|url=http://just-rpg.com/default.asp?pid=1209|title=Reviews: RuneScape|author=Gasperazzo, Wendy|publisher=Just RPG|accessdate=2007-04-30}}</ref><ref name="develop">{{cite web|url=http://www.develop-online.net/features/203/IP-profile-RuneScape|title=IP profile: RuneScape|author=Gibson, Nick|publisher=Develop|date=2008-05-19|accessdate=2008-05-20}}</ref><ref name="EuroGamer1">{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/runescape-article|title=RuneScape|author=Blyth, Jon|publisher=EuroGamer|date=2009-02-09|accessdate=2009-02-20}}</ref><ref name="WordAboutUpdates">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=1019|title=A Word About Our Updates|work=RuneScape News|publisher=Jagex Ltd|date=2007-12-13|accessdate=2009-04-09}}</ref>
<ref name="ComplainForums">{{cite web|url=http://www.tip.it/runescape/index.php?times=123|title=What the heck was THAT?|author=Armadyllo|publisher=Rune Tips|date=2007-12-10|accessdate=2010-06-07}}</ref>
<ref name="BalancedTrade">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=1007|title=Trade and Drop Changes|publisher=Jagex Ltd|work=RuneScape News|date=2007-12-10|accessdate=2010-04-18}}</ref><ref name="times growth">{{cite web|url=http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/media/article3285256.ece|title=Online games group aims for growth the Nintendo way|author=Sabbagh, Dan|quote=Now only people can trade items of similar value...and the clean-up cost RuneScape 60,000 subscribers.|work=The Times|location=UK|date=2008-02-01|accessdate=2008-07-10}}</ref><ref name="EuroGamer2">{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/the-great-digital-gold-rush-interview|title=The Great Digital Gold-Rush|author=Purchese, Robert|publisher=EuroGamer|page=2|date=2008-02-19|accessdate=2010-10-23}}</ref>
}}


<ref name="Guinness Records">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=1386|title=RuneScape in Guinness World Records!|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=22 August 2008|access-date=22 August 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721224856/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=1386|archive-date=21 July 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>
==External links==
{{Portal|Java}}
; Official sites
* {{Official website|http://www.runescape.com/title.ws}}
; Wiki
* ]
; Major fansites
*
*
*


<ref name="GodLettersIssue16">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/letters16|title=God Letters: Issue 16 – Guthix Dispels Rumours|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex|access-date=10 July 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110715213453/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/letters16|archive-date=15 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>
<!-- PLEASE do not add more fansites to this list without further discussion on the talk page. These are the most popular by Alexa ranking, and none of the others are close, so the current consensus is to keep ONLY these here. There are others that are fairly large, but not close to these – so unless the consensus changes, these are the only ones on here. Comments below explain why.


<ref name="WorldMap">{{cite web|title=RuneScape World Map|url=http://www.runescape.com/c=G93XjJ27x-Y/img/main/downloads_and_media/downloads_and_wallpapers/rs_map/rsmap-25may2012-en-a.png|publisher=Jagex|format=Image|date=25 May 2012|access-date=27 June 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20240524085425/https://www.webcitation.org/5friBvXQU?url=http://www.runescape.com/img/main/kbase/downloads_and_wallpapers/rsmap-10february09.jpg|archive-date=24 May 2024|url-status=dead}}</ref>
Per Misplaced Pages policy, ***only*** the highest-traffic fan site should be linked. As RuneHQ, Rune Tips and Zybez are the most popular (per Alexa ranking), and they are too close to each other to make a call as to which is most popular, they have been added but ***no more*** links may be added. Please see the talk page before changing these links. If you need more information on RuneScape, a Google search should suffice.


<ref name="Transportation">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/transportation_introduction|title=Transportation – Introduction|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex|access-date=10 July 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110715213611/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/transportation_introduction|archive-date=15 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>
Per ], the 1-fansite rule is usually applicable if there is a serious issue with ELs in the article. This does not seem to be the problem with this article, so if we are able to keep control over the links, we can have 3 fansite links if we wish. RuneHQ, Rune Tips, and Zybez are the three top sites, and no others are close, so I think this can safely conclude previous issues/conflicts with the fansite links.


<ref name="AOG">{{cite web|url=http://news.funorb.com/newsitem.ws?id=1617|title=Armies of Gielinor|work=FunOrb News|publisher=Jagex|date=15 January 2009|access-date=14 October 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090121043415/http://news.funorb.com/newsitem.ws?id=1617|archive-date=21 January 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref>
DO NOT add more sites! -->

{{RuneScape}}
<ref name="BetrayalAtFalador">{{cite web|url=http://www.babelinteractive.com/london-book-fair/|title=London Book Fair – Betrayal at Falador|publisher=Babel Interactive|access-date=21 September 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110707203211/http://www.babelinteractive.com/london-book-fair/|archive-date=7 July 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2010}}

{{Use British English|date=September 2010}}
<ref name="LegacyOfBlood">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/new-runescape-novel-legacy-of-blood|title=New RuneScape Novel: Legacy of Blood|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|year=2012|access-date=27 June 2012}}</ref>

<ref name="WSJKnights">{{Cite news|author=Wingfield, Nick|title=The Knights of Networking: Online Fantasy Game RuneScape Has Dull Graphics, but It's Free, Luring Millions to Play, Mingle|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB116001111843283242|work=]|publisher=Dow Jones & Company, Inc|page=B.1|date=5 October 2006|url-access=subscription |access-date=11 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170312201726/https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB116001111843283242|archive-date=12 March 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="ProquestGower">{{Cite news|author=Dodson, Sean|title=Rune to move|date=11 December 2003|url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2003/dec/11/games.onlinesupplement2|work=]|location=UK|access-date=12 July 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090505071336/http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2003/dec/11/games.onlinesupplement2|archive-date=5 May 2009|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="runescapeqa">{{cite web|author=Dobson, Jason|url=http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=13769|title=Q&A: Behind RuneScape's 1&nbsp;Million Subscriber Success|website=]|date=3 May 2007|access-date=25 April 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100506194632/http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=13769|archive-date=6 May 2010|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="warcryrunescape">{{cite web|author=Funk, John|url=http://www.warcry.com/articles/view/interviews/5080-WarCry-and-Jagex-Talk-RuneScape|title=WarCry and Jagex Talk RuneScape|publisher=WarCry Network|date=23 July 2008|access-date=25 April 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110728024909/http://www.warcry.com/articles/view/interviews/5080-WarCry-and-Jagex-Talk-RuneScape|archive-date=28 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="PCGamesN">{{cite magazine|url=http://www.pcgamesn.com/article/longest-game-making-runescape|title=The Longest Game: The Making of RuneScape|author=Griliopoulos, Dan|magazine=PCGamesN|date=27 June 2012|access-date=27 June 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120629052308/http://www.pcgamesn.com/article/longest-game-making-runescape|archive-date=29 June 2012|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="PCGamerPresents">{{cite magazine |title=PC Gamer presents RuneScape |magazine=] |pages=5, 7, 11, 15 |date=March 2013}}</ref>

<ref name="IDGNews">{{cite web|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080615044119/http://archive.thestandard.com/article.php?story=200403031708187|archive-date=15 June 2008|url=http://archive.thestandard.com/article.php?story=200403031708187|title=RuneScape takes on the big games|author=Law, Gillian|publisher=IDG News Service|date=3 March 2004|access-date=3 March 2004}}</ref>

<ref name="BiggestUpdate">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=64|title=The biggest update ever...|work=RuneScape News|publisher=Jagex|date=13 February 2003|access-date=15 June 2006|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721225048/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=64|archive-date=21 July 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="classic restrict">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=531|title=Nearly 5000 RS-classic accounts banned|work=RuneScape News|publisher=Jagex|date=12 January 2006|access-date=4 March 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721225151/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=531|archive-date=21 July 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="RulesAdverts">{{cite web|title=Advert Blocking|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex|url=http://www.runescape.com/rules/rule_advert_blocking.ws|access-date=4 December 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110728173049/http://www.runescape.com/rules/rule_advert_blocking.ws|archive-date=28 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="RulesMacroing">{{cite web|title=Macroing, and use of bots or third-party software|url=http://www.runescape.com/rules/rule_third_party_software.ws|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex|access-date=4 December 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110728173045/http://www.runescape.com/rules/rule_third_party_software.ws|archive-date=28 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="WildTangent">{{Cite news|url=http://www.gamedaily.com/articles/features/wildtangent-explores-runescape/69187/?biz=1|title= WildTangent Explores RuneScape|access-date=3 May 2006|author=Radd, David|date=17 July 2006|publisher=GameDaily BIZ|page=1|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071211103140/http://www.gamedaily.com/articles/features/wildtangent-explores-runescape/69187/?biz=1|archive-date=11 December 2007}}</ref>

<ref name="MediaBuyerPlanner">{{Cite news|title=WildTangent Sells Ads in RuneScape Online Game|publisher=MediaBuyerPlanner|date=13 July 2006|url=http://www.mediabuyerplanner.com/entry/42799/wildtangent-sells-ads-in/|access-date=8 August 2006|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110807184837/http://www.mediabuyerplanner.com/entry/42799/wildtangent-sells-ads-in/|archive-date=7 August 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="EngineUpgrade2006">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=584|title=Game engine upgraded!|work=RuneScape News|publisher=Jagex|date=16 May 2006|access-date=27 June 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721225249/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=584|archive-date=21 July 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="RuneScape High Detail Debut">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=1290|title=RS HD Launch: RuneScape HD – Members-Only Beta Launch|access-date=7 July 2008|publisher=Jagex|date=1 July 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721225536/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=1290|archive-date=21 July 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="RuneScape High Detail Announcement">{{cite web|url=http://uk.pc.ign.com/articles/883/883931p1.html|title=Pre-E3 2008: Jagex Confirms RuneScape High Detail Debut|access-date=25 June 2008|website=IGN|year=2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090621095417/http://uk.pc.ign.com/articles/883/883931p1.html|archive-date=21 June 2009|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="GermanLanguage">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/german-language-beta-launch--some-information|title=German Language Beta Launch – Some Information|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=14 February 2007|access-date=25 April 2013}}</ref>

<ref name="FrenchLanguage">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/g=runescape/runescape-france|title=RuneScape France|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=11 December 2008|access-date=25 April 2013}}</ref>

<ref name="BPLanguage">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/g=runescape/runescape-brazil|title=RuneScape: Brazil|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=24 July 2009|access-date=25 April 2013}}</ref>

<ref name="LASLanguage">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/runescape-latin-american-spanish-now-live|title=RuneScape Latin American Spanish: Now Live|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=25 April 2013|access-date=25 April 2013}}</ref>

<ref name="ReOpened1">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=2376|title=RuneScape Classic Temporarily Re-opened|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=11 November 2009|access-date=11 November 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721225745/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=2376|archive-date=21 July 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="ReOpened2">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=3045|title=RuneScape Classic Temporarily Re-opened|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=1 June 2010|access-date=1 June 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721225848/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=3045|archive-date=21 July 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="ReOpened3">{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2011-09-15-jagex-reopening-runescape-classic-today|title=Jagex reopening RuneScape Classic today|website=]|author=Purchese, Robert|date=15 September 2011|access-date=1 October 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110925161050/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2011-09-15-jagex-reopening-runescape-classic-today|archive-date=25 September 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="RSIndia">{{cite web|url=http://www.jagex.com/corporate/Press/release_zapak.ws|title=RuneScape Launches in India|publisher=Jagex|date=8 October 2009|access-date=16 October 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110718064406/http://www.jagex.com/corporate/Press/release_zapak.ws|archive-date=18 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="Bigpoint">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/28720/Jagex_Bigpoint_Partner_For_RuneScape_In_France_Germany.php|title=Jagex, Bigpoint Partner For RuneScape In France, Germany|author=Leigh, Alexander|website=Gamasutra|date=27 May 2010|access-date=31 May 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100806111114/http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/28720/Jagex_Bigpoint_Partner_For_RuneScape_In_France_Germany.php |archive-date=6 August 2010|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="HTML5Announcement1">{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2012-08-30-mmo-runescape-being-developed-for-tablets-smart-tvs-and-other-platforms|title=MMO RuneScape being developed for tablets, smart TVs and other platforms|author=Purchese, Robert|website=Eurogamer|date=30 August 2012|access-date=23 March 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130330145316/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2012-08-30-mmo-runescape-being-developed-for-tablets-smart-tvs-and-other-platforms|archive-date=30 March 2013|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="HTML5Announcement2">{{cite AV media|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/behind-the-scenes-video-bonus-edition|title=Behind the Scenes Video: Bonus Edition|publisher=Jagex|medium=Trailer|time=0:45, 1:28|quote=We've rewritten the game client using HTML5 and utilising WebGL...we've made the interface fully customisable.|date=22 March 2013|access-date=23 March 2013}}</ref>

<ref name="RS3Orchestra">{{cite AV media |url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/bts-video-51-rs3-orchestral-music |title=RS3 Orchestral Music |publisher=Jagex |medium=Trailer |time=0:34 |quote=Today we've come to Bratislava...and we're here to record an orchestra for RuneScape. |date=3 May 2013 |access-date=3 May 2013 }}</ref>

<ref name="HTML5Timeline">{{cite web |url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/rs3-beta-programme- |title=RS3 Beta Programme |publisher=Jagex |date=29 March 2013 |access-date=17 April 2013 }}</ref>

<ref name="RS3Release">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/g=runescape/runescape-3-now-live|title=RuneScape 3 Now Live|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|year=2013|access-date=18 February 2014}}</ref>

<ref name="NXTAnnouncement">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/runefests-big-reveals|title=RuneFest's Big Reveals|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=10 October 2014|access-date=13 February 2016}}</ref>

<ref name="NXTBeta1">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/nxt-closed-beta-weekend--19th-february|title=NXT Closed Beta Weekend {{!}} 19 February|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=8 February 2016|access-date=13 February 2016}}</ref>

<ref name="NXTBeta2">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/nxt-closed-beta-weekend-2--18th-march-1200-utc|title=NXT Closed Beta Weekend #2 {{!}} 18 March 12:00 UTC|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=18 March 2016|access-date=20 April 2016}}</ref>

<ref name="NXTRelease">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/nxt--new-game-client--now-live-for-everyone|title=NXT – New Game Client {{!}} Now Live for Everyone|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=18 April 2016|access-date=20 April 2016}}</ref>

<ref name="countries"> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120322200209/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=664 |date=22 March 2012 }}, {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120322200356/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=596 |date=22 March 2012 }}, {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120322200629/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=560 |date=22 March 2012 }}, {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120322200733/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=527 |date=22 March 2012 }}, {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120322200832/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=517 |date=22 March 2012 }}, and {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120322201004/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=405 |date=22 March 2012 }}. ''RuneScape News''. Published by Jagex (26 April 2005 through 20 November 2006). Retrieved on 13 April 2007. {{cite web |url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=527 |title=6 new Australian servers online! |date=28 December 2005 |access-date=22 October 2009 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://www.webcitation.org/60X9mvw4J?url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=527 |archive-date=29 July 2011 }}</ref>

<ref name="worldlist">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/slu.ws?order=WMLPA|title=RuneScape World List|publisher=Jagex|access-date=20 June 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110302023253/http://www.runescape.com/slu.ws?order=wMLPA|archive-date=2 March 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="ServerRelocated">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=116|title=Singapore server relocated|access-date=31 July 2007|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=25 August 2003|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721225959/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=116|archive-date=21 July 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="servercap">{{cite web|url=http://gigaom.com/2008/07/14/runescape-moves-to-come-out-of-the-shadows/|title=RuneScape Moves to Come Out of the Shadows|access-date=14 July 2008|publisher=GigaOM|date=14 July 2008|author=Wagner, James Au|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110715184246/http://gigaom.com/2008/07/14/runescape-moves-to-come-out-of-the-shadows/|archive-date=15 July 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="themed servers">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=887|title=Themed Worlds|access-date=14 September 2007|date=13 August 2007|work=RuneScape News|publisher=Jagex|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721230058/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=887|archive-date=21 July 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="MMOWeekIddison">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/mmo-week-jagex-s-geoff-iddison|title=MMO Week: Jagex's Geoff Iddison|access-date=15 June 2008|publisher=GamesIndustry.biz|date=9 May 2008|author=Martin, Matt|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110806230352/http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/mmo-week-jagex-s-geoff-iddison|archive-date=6 August 2011|url-status=live|url-access=registration}}</ref>

<ref name="getting_started">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/how_do_i_get_started0|title=How do I get started?|access-date=28 January 2007|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110723070022/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/how_do_i_get_started0|archive-date=23 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="Tutors">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/advisors_and_tutors|title=Advisors and Tutors|access-date=17 September 2009|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110720034327/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/advisors_and_tutors|archive-date=20 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="Statistics">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/controls_statistics#experience|title=Controls – Statistics|access-date=20 June 2009|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110715213645/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/controls_statistics#experience|archive-date=15 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="SkillCapes">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/capes_of_accomplishment_members|title=Capes of Accomplishment|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|access-date=27 March 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110715213651/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/capes_of_accomplishment_members|archive-date=15 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="Skills">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/skills|title=Skills|access-date=14 October 2006|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110723070607/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/skills|archive-date=23 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="FightingBasics">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/fighting_the_basics|title=Fighting – The Basics|access-date=9 October 2006|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110729081956/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/fighting_the_basics|archive-date=29 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="SummoningBasics">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/sym_summoning_the_basics#familiars_and_combat|title=Summoning – The Basics|access-date=20 June 2009|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110715213851/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/sym_summoning_the_basics#familiars_and_combat|archive-date=15 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="MeleeBasics">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/melee_the_basics|title=Melee – The Basics|access-date=14 October 2006|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110720193422/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/melee_the_basics|archive-date=20 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="MagicBasics">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/magic_the_basics|title=Magic – The Basics|access-date=14 October 2006|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110729074812/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/magic_the_basics|archive-date=29 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="RangedBasics">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/ranged_the_basics|title=Ranged – The Basics|access-date=14 October 2006|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110806184031/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/ranged_the_basics|archive-date=6 August 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="CombatTriangle">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/combat_triangle_and_tactics|title=Combat Triangle and Tactics|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex|access-date=21 September 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110715214039/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/combat_triangle_and_tactics|archive-date=15 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="CombatBeta1">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/og-blog-evolution-of-combat|title=Og Blog: Evolution of Combat|author=Mod Mark|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=1 June 2012|access-date=1 June 2012}}</ref>

<ref name="DuelArena">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/combat_duelling|title=The Duel Arena|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|access-date=29 November 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110723070532/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/combat_duelling|archive-date=23 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="CombatBeta3">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/evolution-of-combat-beta--live|title=Evolution of Combat Beta – Live!|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=26 June 2012|access-date=20 November 2012}}</ref>

<ref name="CombatBeta4">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/g=runescape/evolution-of-combat-now-live|title=Evolution of Combat: Now Live!|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=20 November 2012|access-date=14 April 2013}}</ref>

<ref name="PowerToThePlayers1">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/a=4/runescape-2014---power-to-the-players|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150503121348/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/a=4/runescape-2014---power-to-the-players|url-status=dead|archive-date=3 May 2015|title=RuneScape 2014 - Power to the Players|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=27 December 2013|access-date=15 February 2014}}</ref>

<ref name="PowerToThePlayers2">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/a=4/poll---legacy-combat|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150503223203/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/a=4/poll---legacy-combat|url-status=dead|archive-date=3 May 2015|title=Poll - Legacy Combat|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=1 February 2014|access-date=15 February 2014}}</ref>

<ref name="PowerToThePlayers3">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/a=4/poll---combat-level-calculation|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150503162622/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/a=4/poll---combat-level-calculation|url-status=dead|archive-date=3 May 2015|title=Poll - Combat Level Calculation|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=14 February 2014|access-date=15 February 2014}}</ref>

<ref name="LegacyMode1">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/legacy-mode-beta---now-open|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140618182010/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/legacy-mode-beta---now-open|url-status=dead|archive-date=18 June 2014|title=Legacy Mode Beta - Now Open|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=14 June 2014|access-date=1 July 2014}}</ref>

<ref name="LegacyMode2">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/legacy-mode-launch-global-combat-improvements-and-gear-guide-?jptg=ia&jptv=community_news|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140719042213/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/legacy-mode-launch-global-combat-improvements-and-gear-guide-?jptg=ia&jptv=community_news|url-status=dead|archive-date=19 July 2014|title=Legacy Mode Launch, Global Combat Improvements and Gear Guide|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=14 July 2014|access-date=15 July 2014}}</ref>

<ref name="WildernessStarter">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/wilderness_getting_started#how_dangerous|title=The Wilderness - Getting Started|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|access-date=26 January 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110715214207/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/wilderness_getting_started#how_dangerous|archive-date=15 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="PKingSpots">{{cite web|url=http://www.runehq.com/guide.php?type=specialreport&id=0693|title=Wilderness Survival Guide|author=sheep01|access-date=14 February 2011|publisher=RuneHQ|archive-url=https://www.webcitation.org/60XA17ptg?url=http://www.runehq.com/guide.php?type=specialreport&id=0693|archive-date=29 July 2011|url-status=dead}}{{cbignore}}</ref>

<ref name="rwtdevdiary">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/diary06|title=RuneScape vs. Real-world Trading|access-date=29 June 2008|work=RuneScape Development Diaries|publisher=Jagex|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101123234818/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/diary06|archive-date=23 November 2010|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="BountyHunter1">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=1006|title=Wilderness Changes, Bounty Hunter and Clan Wars!|access-date=20 June 2009|work=RuneScape News|publisher=Jagex|date=10 December 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721230917/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=1006|archive-date=21 July 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="BountyWorlds">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=1813|title=Bounty Hunter Wilderness-only PvP|access-date=20 June 2009|work=RuneScape News|publisher=Jagex|date=6 May 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721231019/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=1813|archive-date=21 July 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="PvPWorlds2">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=1442|title=News Item: PvP Worlds|access-date=15 October 2008|work=RuneScape News|publisher=Jagex|date=15 October 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721231207/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=1442|archive-date=21 July 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="WildernessReturn">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/the-wilderness-and-free-trade-return|title=The Wilderness and Free Trade Return|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=1 February 2011|access-date=1 February 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110804140859/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/the-wilderness-and-free-trade-return|archive-date=4 August 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="BeginnersGuide">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/beginners_guide#quests|title=Beginners' Guide|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|access-date=27 March 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110715214355/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/beginners_guide#quests|archive-date=15 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="UseBestiary">{{cite web|url=http://tip.it/runescape/index.php?page=how_to_bestiary.htm|title=How to use the Bestiary|access-date=22 February 2007|publisher=Rune Tips|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110722055420/http://tip.it/runescape/index.php?page=how_to_bestiary.htm|archive-date=22 July 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="mini-games">{{cite web|url=http://www.tip.it/runescape/?page=activities.htm|title=Activities and Mini Quests|access-date=12 October 2010|publisher=Rune Tips|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110722055421/http://www.tip.it/runescape/?page=activities.htm|archive-date=22 July 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="random events">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/random_events|title=Random Events|access-date=4 July 2008|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091126030352/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/random_events|archive-date=26 November 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="ControlsTrading">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/controls_trading|title=Controls – Trading|access-date=12 April 2009|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716050347/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/controls_trading|archive-date=16 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="Grand Exchange">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/controls_the_grand_exchange|title=Controls – The Grand Exchange|access-date=12 April 2009|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110726074451/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/controls_the_grand_exchange|archive-date=26 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="ClanChat">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/controls_clan_chat|title=Controls – Friends and Clan Chat|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex|access-date=12 April 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716051043/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/controls_clan_chat|archive-date=16 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="GeneralChatControls">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/controls_chat|title=Controls – Chat|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex|access-date=23 October 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090916221124/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/controls_chat|archive-date=16 September 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="RSTrailer">{{cite web|url=http://www.gametrailers.com/video/trailer-runescape/35739|title=RuneScape Trailer|access-date=4 July 2008|publisher=Gametrailers.com|year=2008|author=Jagex|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100405022737/http://www.gametrailers.com/video/trailer-runescape/35739|archive-date=5 April 2010|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="GraphicsOptions">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/controls_display_options|title=Controls - Display Options|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|access-date=10 November 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716051048/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/controls_display_options|archive-date=16 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="RuneTek">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=devblog/view_post.ws?post_id=27|title=Game Engine – RuneTek 5|work=RuneScape Developers' Blogs|date=26 August 2009|access-date=29 August 2009|publisher=Jagex|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721224622/http://services.runescape.com/m=devblog/view_post.ws?post_id=27|archive-date=21 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="RuneTek5Engine">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=2171|title=RuneTek 5 Game Engine|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=2 September 2009|access-date=2 September 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721232225/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=2171|archive-date=21 July 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="ZBuffering">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/z-buffering|title=Z-buffering|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=15 September 2010|access-date=24 September 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110120044415/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/z-buffering|archive-date=20 January 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="ControlsOptions">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/controls_options#emotes|title=Controls – Options|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|access-date=6 May 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110803143921/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/controls_options#emotes|archive-date=3 August 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="RSAudioTeam">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/diary03|title=Audio Team – Music, Sound Effects and the Sound Bank|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape Development Diaries|access-date=12 September 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110210104248/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/diary03|archive-date=10 February 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="DisplayNames">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=2270|title=Display Names|work=RuneScape News|publisher=Jagex|date=1 October 2009|access-date=13 October 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110715223859/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=2270|archive-date=15 July 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="ForumAvatar">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/controls_photobooth#forum_avatars|title=Controls – Photo Booth|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|access-date=7 October 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110803143656/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/controls_photobooth#forum_avatars|archive-date=3 August 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="ForumPosting">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/free-player-forum-access-expanded-|title=Free Player Forum Access Expanded|work=RuneScape News|author=Mod SteveW|publisher=Jagex|date=5 November 2010|access-date=8 November 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110209133951/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/free-player-forum-access-expanded-|archive-date=9 February 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<!--<ref name="MMGonMyths">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/mod-mmg-on-myths-and-misconceptions|title=Mod MMG on Myths and Misconceptions|work=RuneScape News|first=Mark|last=Gerhard|publisher=Jagex|date=5 April 2014|access-date=6 April 2014|archive-url=https://archive.today/20140404213103/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/mod-mmg-on-myths-and-misconceptions|archive-date=4 April 2014|url-status=live}}</ref>-->

<ref name="SaradominEnlightens">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=337|title=Saradomin Enlightens|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|access-date=27 February 2009|date=9 December 2004|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110715224435/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=337|archive-date=15 July 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="ReadersLetters">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=490|title=New readers letters|access-date=7 April 2009|date=26 September 2005|work=RuneScape News|publisher=Jagex|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110715224538/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=490|archive-date=15 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="PlayersGallery">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/gallery|title=Players' Gallery|access-date=27 February 2009|publisher=Jagex|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716052021/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/gallery|archive-date=16 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="holidayitems">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/holiday_items_guide|title=Holiday Items Guide|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex|access-date=10 April 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091228032111/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/holiday_items_guide|archive-date=28 December 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="WhitePartyhatPrice">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=itemdb_rs/White_partyhat/viewitem.ws?obj=1048|title=Price of White Partyhat|work=RuneScape Grand Exchange|publisher=Jagex|access-date=27 February 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110806063257/http://itemdb-rs.runescape.com/viewitem.ws?obj=1048|archive-date=6 August 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="Fansites">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/fansites|title=Fansites|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|access-date=7 June 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110811154153/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/fansites|archive-date=11 August 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<!--<ref name="runelinks">{{cite web|url=http://server1.runescape.com/runelinks.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20011024045004/http://server1.runescape.com/runelinks.html|archive-date=24 October 2001|title=RuneScape Links Page|access-date=24 August 2001|publisher=Jagex|year=2001}}</ref>-->

<!--<ref name="KnowledgeBase">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=556|title=New Improved Game Guide Released|access-date=8 May 2009|date=13 March 2006|work=RuneScape News|publisher=Jagex|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111009153744/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=556|archive-date=9 October 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="WelcomeToKB">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/manual|title=Welcome to the RuneScape Knowledge Base|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|access-date=8 May 2009|publisher=Jagex|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110728184955/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/manual|archive-date=28 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>-->

<!--<ref name="Wiki">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/runescape-revolution|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111124203952/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/runescape-revolution|url-status=dead|archive-date=24 November 2011|title=RuneScape Revolution|work=RuneScape News|publisher=Jagex|date=22 November 2011|access-date=22 November 2011}}</ref>-->

<ref name="RulesSecurity">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/rules_of_conduct#security|title=Rules of RuneScape – Security|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|access-date=12 May 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110728184915/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/rules_of_conduct#security|archive-date=28 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="WhoNeedsFansites">{{cite web|url=http://tip.it/runescape/index.php?times=78|title=So Who Needs Fansites Anyway?|access-date=8 May 2009|date=26 January 2007|publisher=Rune Tips|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110722055530/http://tip.it/runescape/index.php?times=78|archive-date=22 July 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="FansitesTies">{{cite web|url=http://www.tip.it/runescape/index.php?times=210|title=Re: The Future of RuneScape|access-date=8 May 2009|date=15 February 2009|publisher=Rune Tips|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110722055753/http://www.tip.it/runescape/index.php?times=210|archive-date=22 July 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="Twitch">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/a=97/araxxor-twitch-integration-and-lobby-update|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140808044054/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/a=97/araxxor-twitch-integration-and-lobby-update|url-status=dead|archive-date=8 August 2014|title=Araxxor, Twitch Integration and Lobby Update|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=28 July 2014|access-date=30 July 2014}}</ref>

<ref name="RulesOfRuneScape">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=rswiki/en/Rules_of_RuneScape|title=Rules of RuneScape|publisher=Jagex|access-date=15 July 2014}}</ref>

<ref name="ReportingAbuse">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/how_do_i_report_abuse|title=Reporting Abuse|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|access-date=18 January 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090901045040/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/how_do_i_report_abuse|archive-date=1 September 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="Moderators">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=rswiki/en/Moderators|title=Moderators|publisher=Jagex|access-date=15 July 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140430085826/http://services.runescape.com/m=rswiki/en/Moderators|archive-date=30 April 2014|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="BotsAndRWT">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=785|title=Bots and real-world trading|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|access-date=30 May 2007|date=1 May 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111009153928/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=785|archive-date=9 October 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="WildernessVote1">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/wilderness-and-free-trade-referendum|title=Wilderness and Free Trade Referendum|author=Gerhard, Mark|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=24 December 2010|access-date=24 December 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110720034002/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/wilderness-and-free-trade-referendum|archive-date=20 July 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="WildernessVote2">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/32504/12M_RuneScape_Players_Vote_To_Restore_PvP_Free_Trade_Features.php|title=1.2M RuneScape Players Vote To Restore PvP, Free Trade Features|author=Caoili, Eric|website=Gamasutra|date=18 January 2011|access-date=5 March 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110206124543/http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/32504/12M_RuneScape_Players_Vote_To_Restore_PvP_Free_Trade_Features.php|archive-date=6 February 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="BotanyBay1">{{cite web|url=https://secure.runescape.com/m=news/ninja-week---2008|title=Ninja Week - 20/08|quote=With this week, we wave goodbye to the infamous Botany Bay.|publisher=Jagex|date=20 August 2018|access-date=28 February 2021|language=en-gb}}</ref>

<ref name="BotanyBay2">{{cite web|url=http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/26/runescape-puts-bots-on-trial/|title=RuneScape puts bots on trial|author=Olivetti, Justin|publisher=Massively|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150205003700/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/26/runescape-puts-bots-on-trial/|archive-date=5 February 2015|date=26 September 2012|access-date=26 September 2012|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="BondAnnouncement">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/g=runescape/an-important-message-from-mod-mmg|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140113205115/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/g=runescape/an-important-message-from-mod-mmg|url-status=dead|archive-date=13 January 2014|title=An Important message from Mod MMG|author=Gerhard, Mark|publisher=Jagex|date=25 September 2013|access-date=14 January 2014}}</ref>

<ref name="Bonds1Week">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/g=runescape/bonds--one-week-in|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140113205120/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/g=runescape/bonds--one-week-in|url-status=dead|archive-date=13 January 2014|title=Bonds – One Week In|author=Pips|publisher=Jagex|date=2 October 2013|access-date=14 January 2014}}</ref>

<ref name="PCGamerUK">{{Cite news|author=Sutherns, Mark|title=RuneScape 2: browser-based Goblin basher goes 3D|work=] UK, issue 129|page=145|publisher=]|date=December 2003}}</ref>

<ref name="YahooBuzzLog">{{cite web|url=http://buzz.yahoo.com/buzzlog/9096/the-rundown-o-runescape|title=The Rundown on RuneScape|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120307172217/http://buzzlog.yahoo.com/buzzlog/9096/the-rundown-o-runescape|archive-date=7 March 2012|author=Hurd, Gordon|publisher=]|date=8 May 2006|access-date=8 August 2006|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="JustRPG">{{cite web|url=http://just-rpg.com/default.asp?pid=1209|title=Reviews: RuneScape|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110713125226/http://www.just-rpg.com/default.asp?pid=1209|archive-date=13 July 2011|author=Gasperazzo, Wendy|publisher=Just RPG|access-date=30 April 2007|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="develop">{{cite magazine|url=http://www.develop-online.net/features/203/IP-profile-RuneScape|title=IP profile: RuneScape|author=Gibson, Nick|magazine=Develop|date=19 May 2008|access-date=20 May 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110813112547/http://www.develop-online.net/features/203/IP-profile-RuneScape|archive-date=13 August 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="EuroGamer1">{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/runescape-article|title=RuneScape|author=Blyth, Jon|website=Eurogamer|date=9 February 2009|access-date=20 February 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110809153001/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/runescape-article|archive-date=9 August 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="WordAboutUpdates">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=1019|title=A Word About Our Updates|work=RuneScape News|publisher=Jagex|date=13 December 2007|access-date=9 April 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111009154237/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=1019|archive-date=9 October 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="ComplainForums">{{cite web|url=http://www.tip.it/runescape/index.php?times=123|title=What the heck was THAT?|author=Armadyllo|publisher=Rune Tips|date=10 December 2007|access-date=7 June 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110722055938/http://www.tip.it/runescape/index.php?times=123|archive-date=22 July 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="BalancedTrade">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=1007|title=Trade and Drop Changes|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|date=10 December 2007|access-date=18 April 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111009154045/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/newsitem.ws?id=1007|archive-date=9 October 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="times growth">{{cite web|url=http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/media/article3285256.ece|title=Online games group aims for growth the Nintendo way|author=Sabbagh, Dan|quote=Now only people can trade items of similar value...and the clean-up cost RuneScape 60,000 subscribers.|work=The Times|location=UK|date=1 February 2008|access-date=10 July 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110823150819/http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/media/article3285256.ece|archive-date=23 August 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="EuroGamer2">{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/the-great-digital-gold-rush-interview|title=The Great Digital Gold-Rush|author=Purchese, Robert|website=EuroGamer|page=2|date=19 February 2008|access-date=23 October 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110810025024/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/the-great-digital-gold-rush-interview|archive-date=10 August 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="ReturnToCanifis">{{Cite book|title=RuneScape: Return to Canifis (RuneScape 2)|id= {{ASIN|1848567278|country=uk}}}}</ref>
<ref name="Dying">{{cite web|url=http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/death_in_runescape|title=Death in RuneScape|work=RuneScape Knowledge Base|publisher=Jagex|access-date=20 April 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110723070542/http://www.runescape.com/kbase/guid/death_in_runescape|archive-date=23 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="NewSite">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/coming-next-week-new-website|title=Coming Next Week: New Website!|access-date=16 November 2011|date=15 November 2011|work=RuneScape News|publisher=Jagex|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111116172236/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/coming-next-week-new-website|archive-date=16 November 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="BotBustRelease">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/bot-nuking-day-making-runescape-fairer-and-more-fun|title=Bot-Nuking Day: Making RuneScape Fairer and More Fun!|access-date=18 November 2011|date=25 October 2011|work=RuneScape News|publisher=Jagex|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111122005454/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/bot-nuking-day-making-runescape-fairer-and-more-fun|archive-date=22 November 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="MMORPG.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.mmorpg.com/gamelist.cfm/game/37/view/reviews/load/137/page/1|title=RuneScape Review: 2011 Re-Review - Edit|author=Tingle, Adam|publisher=MMORPG.com|date=6 April 2011|access-date=6 March 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111105143045/http://www.mmorpg.com/gamelist.cfm/game/37/view/reviews/load/137/page/1|archive-date=5 November 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="SOF1">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/spin-and-win-on-the-squeal-of-fortune|archive-url=https://archive.today/20190216012056/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/spin-and-win-on-the-squeal-of-fortune|url-status=dead|archive-date=16 February 2019|title=Spin and Win on the Squeal of Fortune!|author=Mod Nexus|publisher=Jagex|date=28 February 2012|access-date=2 April 2012}}</ref>

<ref name="SOF2">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/squeal-of-fortune--extra-spins|archive-url=https://archive.today/20190216012215/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/squeal-of-fortune--extra-spins|url-status=dead|archive-date=16 February 2019|title=Squeal of Fortune – Extra Spins|publisher=Jagex|date=2 April 2012|access-date=2 April 2012}}</ref>

<ref name="SOF3">{{cite magazine|url=http://www.develop-online.net/news/40387/Runescape-begins-first-microtransaction-experiment|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120405063738/http://www.develop-online.net/news/40387/Runescape-begins-first-microtransaction-experiment|url-status=dead|archive-date=5 April 2012|title=RuneScape begins first microtransaction experiment|author=Crossley, Rob|magazine=Develop|date=2 April 2012|access-date=2 April 2012}}</ref>

<ref name="Solomon">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/solomons-general-store---grand-opening|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120719204301/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/solomons-general-store---grand-opening|url-status=dead|archive-date=19 July 2012|title=Solomon's General Store - Grand Opening!|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|year=2012|access-date=18 July 2012}}</ref>

<ref name="MMGonMT">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/g=runescape/mod-mmg-on-runescape-micro-payments-1|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140808044844/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/g=runescape/mod-mmg-on-runescape-micro-payments-1|url-status=dead|archive-date=8 August 2014|title=Mod MMG on RuneScape Micro-Payments|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|author=Mark Gerhard|date=29 August 2012|access-date=15 February 2014}}</ref>

<ref name="MMGonMT2">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/mod-mmg-on-runescape-micro-payments|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140329083326/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/mod-mmg-on-runescape-micro-payments|url-status=dead|archive-date=29 March 2014|title=Mod MMG on RuneScape Micro-Payments|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|author=Mark Gerhard|date=26 March 2014|access-date=27 March 2014}}</ref>

<ref name="TreasureHunter">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/treasure-hunter|archive-url=https://archive.today/20190216011224/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/treasure-hunter|url-status=dead|archive-date=16 February 2019|title=Treasure Hunter|publisher=Jagex|work=RuneScape News|year=2014|access-date=10 February 2014}}</ref>

<ref name="2007GameVote">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/2007---old-school-runescape-you-vote|title=2007 - Old School RuneScape... You Vote!|author=Gerhard, Mark|publisher=Jagex|date=13 February 2013|access-date=13 February 2013|archive-url=https://wayback.archive-it.org/all/20130810044837/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/2007---old-school-runescape-you-vote|archive-date=10 August 2013|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="2007GameVoteResult">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/old-school-runescape-poll-results-in|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130302002141/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/old-school-runescape-poll-results-in|url-status=dead|archive-date=2 March 2013|title=Old School RuneScape: Poll Results In!|author=Gerhard, Mark|publisher=Jagex|date=1 March 2013|access-date=5 March 2013}}</ref>

<ref name="2007ServersOpen">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/old-school-runescape-early-access-now-open|title=Old School RuneScape: Early Access Now Open|author=Gerhard, Mark|publisher=Jagex|date=22 February 2013|access-date=5 March 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130225005939/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/old-school-runescape-early-access-now-open|archive-date=25 February 2013|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="2007F2POpen">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/permanent-free-to-play?oldschool=1|title=Permanent Free-to-Play|publisher=Jagex|work=Old School RuneScape News|date=19 February 2015|access-date=16 February 2016|archive-url=https://archive.today/20181220150711/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/permanent-free-to-play?oldschool=1|archive-date=20 December 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="DarkScape">{{cite web|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/play-darkscape--free-to-play-open-world-pvp-1|title=Play DarkScape - Free-to-Play Open World PvP|date=16 September 2015|access-date=31 October 2015|publisher=Jagex|archive-url=https://archive.today/20180510125726/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/play-darkscape--free-to-play-open-world-pvp-1|archive-date=10 May 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="DarkScapeClosure">{{cite web |url=https://darkscape.runescape.com/news/2015/12/the-status-of-darkscape.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160229225754/https://darkscape.runescape.com/news/2015/12/the-status-of-darkscape.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=29 February 2016 |title=The Status of DarkScape |publisher=Jagex |work=DarkScape News |date=29 February 2016 |access-date=6 March 2016 }}</ref>

<ref name="polling">{{cite web|title=Welcome to Old School RuneScape Polls|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=poll/oldschool/index.ws|website=RuneScape Old School|publisher=Jagex Limited|access-date=23 May 2017}}</ref>

<!--<ref name="RSClassicFarewell">{{cite web|title=RuneScape Classic: Farewell|url=http://services.runescape.com/m=news/runescape-classic-farewell?oldschool=1|website=RuneScape Old School News|publisher=Jagex Limited|access-date=26 May 2018|archive-url=http://wayback.archive-it.org/all/20181213183035/http://services.runescape.com/m=news/runescape-classic-farewell?oldschool=1|archive-date=13 December 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>-->

<ref name="TIGAAwards2018">{{cite web|url=http://tiga.org/awards/2018-winners|title=TIGA Games Industry Awards 2018|date=1 November 2018|publisher=]|access-date=3 November 2018}}</ref>

<ref name="RuneScapeMobile">{{Cite news|url=https://secure.runescape.com/m=news/runescape-on-mobile--coming-soon|title=RuneScape on Mobile – Coming Soon|publisher=Jagex Limited|date=17 July 2017|access-date=17 February 2021}}</ref>

<ref name="OldSchoolRuneScapeMobile">{{Cite news|url=https://www.techspot.com/news/77175-old-school-runescape-now-free-play-ios-android.html|title=Old School RuneScape is now free to play on iOS and Android devices|work=TechSpot|access-date=15 May 2021|language=en-us|first=Cohen|last=Coberly|date=30 October 2018}}</ref>

<ref name="SteamRelease">{{cite web|url=https://secure.runescape.com/m=news/runescape-out-now-on-steam|title=RuneScape Out Now On Steam!|publisher=Jagex|date=14 October 2020|access-date=16 October 2020|language=en-gb}}</ref>
}}

==External links==
{{commons category|RuneScape}}
* {{Official website}}
*

{{Jagex}}
{{Portal bar|Video games}}

{{Authority control}}


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Latest revision as of 02:20, 20 December 2024

2001 video game For the 2013 version of RuneScape, see Old School RuneScape.

2001 video game
RuneScape
Developer(s)Jagex
Publisher(s)Jagex
Designer(s)
  • Andrew Gower
  • Paul Gower
Composer(s)
Platform(s)
Release4 January 2001
Genre(s)Massively multiplayer online role-playing game
Mode(s)Multiplayer

RuneScape is a fantasy massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) developed and published by Jagex, released in January 2001. RuneScape was originally a browser game built with the Java programming language; it was largely replaced by a standalone C++ client in 2016. The game has had over 300 million accounts created and was recognised by the Guinness World Records as the largest and most-updated free MMORPG.

RuneScape takes place in the world of Gielinor, a medieval fantasy realm divided into different kingdoms, regions, and cities. Players can travel throughout Gielinor via a number of methods including on foot, magical spells, or charter ships. Each region offers different types of monsters, resources, and quests to challenge players. The game's fictional universe has been explored through a tie-in video game on another of its maker's websites, FunOrb, Armies of Gielinor, and the novels Betrayal at Falador, Return to Canifis, and Legacy of Blood.

Players are represented in the game with customisable avatars. RuneScape does not follow a linear storyline; rather, players set their own goals and objectives. Players can choose to fight non-player character (NPC) monsters, complete quests, or increase their experience in the available skills. Players interact with each other through trading, chatting, or by participating in mini-games and activities, some of which are competitive or combative in nature, while others require cooperative or collaborative play.

The first public version of RuneScape was released in January 2001 in beta form, with Jagex as its copyright holder being formed later that year. In 2004, as the game's popularity grew, the game engine was rewritten and released as RuneScape 2, with the original version of the game being renamed RuneScape Classic. The third iteration of the game, known as RuneScape 3, was released in July 2013. Old School RuneScape, a separate, older version of the game dating from August 2007, was released in February 2013, and is maintained alongside the original client. It was announced that mobile ports of both versions of RuneScape would be released for Android and iOS devices in 2018. RuneScape was released on Steam on 14 October 2020.

Gameplay

A screenshot of the game interface from RuneScape in 2012

Players begin in a secluded area called Tutorial Island, where they are taken through a tutorial, a set path where they learn the most basic skills in RuneScape. After the tutorial, players have access to tutors and advisors located in the towns they explore, who can give players appropriate information about their respective skills. Originally players were teleported to the town of Lumbridge, however in recent updates, Burthorpe is the main starting area. Other main cities include Varrock, Falador, Ardougne (and West Ardougne), and smaller settlements.

Players set their own goals and objectives as they play the game. They can train their in-game skills, engage non-player character (NPC) monsters and other players in combat and complete quests at their discretion. Players interact with each other through trading, chatting or by participating in mini-games.

Skills

There are 29 skills in RuneScape, 17 skills available to free-to-play players and an additional 12 for members, which enable players to perform various activities allowing for interaction with NPCs, the environment and other players. Players gain experience points in a skill when they use it. For example, mining an ore trains the mining skill, and when the player accumulates enough experience points in the skill, their character will "level up". As a skill level rises, the ability to retrieve better raw materials and produce better products increases, as does the experience awarded if the player uses new abilities. The total skill level of a player partly symbolises the player's status in the game and subscribers with a high total level can appear on the high scores. Upon reaching the highest available level in a skill, members may buy a special cape to symbolise their achievement.

Some skills, such as woodcutting and fishing, enable the player to collect raw materials that can be processed into usable items for other skills, such as fletching and cooking respectively. The items created can be used by the player or sold to shops and other players. Other skills allow players to kill certain NPCs, build their own houses, move around the map with greater ease, steal from various NPCs, market stalls and chests located in-game, light fires, cook their own food, create their own potions, craft runestones and weapons, plant their own plants, hunt NPC animals, raid dungeons, and summon familiars to assist in combat and training skills.

Combat

RuneScape features a semi-real-time combat system. Combat is an important aspect of the game, allowing players to defeat monsters to obtain dropped items or to complete quests. A combat level is an indicator of how powerful a player or NPC is in combat. For players, it is determined by applying a mathematical formula to their combat skills. Players engage in combat by clicking on the enemy they want their character to attack and will automatically continue fighting until they kill their opponent, die, or retreat from the fight. Most of the game's weapons are medieval or fantastical in nature, and feature different strengths and weaknesses. Players may summon a familiar to assist with combat, use special attacks called "abilities" to deal additional damage, and use potions and the Prayer skill to boost their combat prowess.

Combat is subdivided into four main categories: melee, magic, ranged and necromancy. Melee attacks are close range, magic attacks focus on using runestones to cast spells, ranged attacks use projectile weapons like arrows, darts or throwing knives, and necromancy combines direct attacks with the summoning of undead combatants to fight alongside the player. The first three combat types make up a "Combat Triangle", which governs effectiveness of styles in a rock-paper-scissors fashion; melee beats ranged, ranged beats magic, magic beats melee, and each style is neutral to itself. Necromancy is a standalone method of combat and is neutral to the other styles. The advantages and disadvantages of the combat triangle apply to both NPCs and player opponents. Players are not required to choose a character class nor are they bound to a specific category of combat. They may freely change between or combine the styles of combat by switching weapons and armour.

Combat is governed by a life points system. Every combatant has a maximum capacity of life points, and dies when their health is depleted to 0. Lost life points can be recovered by consuming certain food or drinks, or casting abilities. Players who die reappear at a respawn point of their choice with their life and skill points restored; however, they drop all but three chosen items, as well as certain common items. Dying spawns a gravestone that will hold all of the player's items and will last for an allotted time; however, there are situations in which all items will be lost upon death. If the player does not return in time, the grave will collapse and their items will disappear.

In June 2012 players were invited to beta-test a new combat system named "Evolution of Combat", which included fundamental changes such as re-balancing the Combat Triangle to avoid favouring melee attacks, and replacing special weapon attacks with abilities that produce a range of effects when activated. The system was released on the live game on 20 November 2012. Various polls were also added for players to vote on in game that would determine the result of future content development, some of which would dictate the development of the improved combat system. A beta for a separate combat system dubbed "Legacy Mode" was opened to players on 16 June 2014, before being introduced to the live game on 14 July. Legacy Mode allows players to switch to the combat system and interface from prior to June 2012 instead of the Evolution of Combat system.

Player versus player combat

Player versus player combat (PvP) can be performed in specific controlled mini-games and in an area known as the Wilderness. The Duel Arena allows players to stake money and items, while other PvP games offer their own rewards. In the Wilderness, players can engage in combat provided that their combat levels fall within a certain range of each other, and if a player kills their opponent they will be able to claim their opponent's items as a reward.

Before December 2007, players went to the Wilderness to fight other players within a certain combat level range, hoping to kill them and gain their items. In December 2007, the Wilderness was altered to prevent players from transferring in-game items for real-world currency. PvP combat was removed from the Wilderness and temporarily restricted to new mini-games named Bounty Hunter and Clan Wars. Bounty Hunter was replaced by special Bounty Worlds on 6 May 2009 in which players were confined to the Wilderness and could be assigned specific targets to kill. "PvP Worlds" were introduced on 15 October 2008 where players could fight almost anywhere in Gielinor, but these and "Bounty Worlds" were removed when PvP combat in the Wilderness was restored on 1 February 2011.

Non-player interaction

Non-player characters (NPCs) populate the realm of Gielinor. Some NPCs, such as shopkeepers and some characters in quests, are unavailable for combat. However, most NPCs can be attacked and these are generally referred to as monsters. Monsters range from common, low-level creatures, such as chickens and goblins, to unique and often much more powerful monsters, such as the Queen Black Dragon, Telos, and Vorago.

Most monsters have their own strengths and weaknesses, notable exceptions being certain bosses, which have no specific weaknesses. Demons, for example, have a weak defence against ranged attacks, while metal dragons have extremely high defence against ranged. The weakness of an individual monster is displayed in an interface above its model, along with its combat level and lifepoints.

Monsters may either be aggressive or non-aggressive. Non-aggressive monsters ignore players unless attacked, while aggressive monsters may attack all players or may only attack players with combat levels below a specified level, depending on the circumstances or location. This can make certain areas throughout Gielinor dangerous or inconvenient to players with lower combat levels.

Player interaction

Players can interact with each other through trading, chatting, or by participating in mini-games and activities, some of which are competitive or combative in nature, while others require cooperative or collaborative play. Players can trade items and gold coins with each other, either through a face-to-face trade, or by using a large automated marketplace known as the Grand Exchange.

The chat system enables players to communicate with each other. Public Chat broadcasts text to players in the local area on one server, both by text appearing above the speaker's head and in the message box. Friends Chat broadcasts text in the message box only to certain players tuned into a specific channel, who can be available on any RuneScape world. Each Friends Chat channel has an owner, who can assign different ranks to individual players; players' ranks dictate their ability to perform administrative tasks within the channel. Clan Chat allows members of a clan to communicate with each other through a separate channel. Quick Chat allows players to choose from a list of predetermined messages to send as Public Chat, Clan Chat, or Friends Chat.

RuneScape features independent mini-games, although most are only available to paying members. Mini-games take place in certain areas and normally involve specific in-game skills, and usually require players to cooperate or to compete with each other. Examples of these mini-games include Castle Wars, which is similar to the real-life game Capture the Flag, Pest Control, a highly combat-focused mini-game, and Fist of Guthix, where one player (the hunter) tries to stop another player (the hunted) from collecting charges into a magical stone.

Quests

Quests are series of tasks with a storyline that players can choose to complete. These often have requirements including minimum levels in certain skills, combat levels, quest points and/or the completion of other quests. Players receive various rewards for completion of quests, including money, unique items, access to new areas, quest points and/or increases in skill experience. Some quests require players to work together, and many require players to engage in challenging combat. Quests are grouped into categories based on requirements and difficulty. Once a player completes all quests in the game, an achievement item known as the "Quest Point Cape" can be claimed. New quests are released periodically.

Development

Version History
2001RuneScape Classic
2002–2003
2004RuneScape 2
2005–2007
2008RuneScape High Detail
2009–2012
2013Old School RuneScape
RuneScape 3

Andrew Gower developed RuneScape with the assistance of his brother Paul Gower. It was originally conceived as a text-based MUD, but graphics were incorporated early in development, adding it to the ranks of what were then known as "graphical MUDs". The first public version of the game used a mixture of three-dimensional and two-dimensional sprites. It was released as a beta version on 4 January 2001, and originally operated out of their parents' house in Nottingham. In December 2001, the Gower brothers, along with Constant Tedder, formed Jagex to take over the business aspects of running RuneScape. Among its early innovations Jagex developed an interpreted domain-specific scripting language called RuneScript, which is used by RuneScape's server for event handling. In February 2002, a monthly membership service was introduced, allowing access to additional features including new areas, quests, and items not available to free users.

Ranged combat in RuneScape Classic

As the game gained more users, Jagex began planning major changes. The developers rewrote the game engine, producing a new version of the game with entirely three-dimensional graphics called RuneScape 2. A beta version of RuneScape 2 was released to paying members for a testing period beginning on 1 December 2003, and ending in March 2004. Upon its official release, RuneScape 2 was renamed simply RuneScape, while the older version of the game was kept online under the name RuneScape Classic. On 12 January 2006, Jagex banned more than 5,000 Classic accounts for cheating. To prevent further cheating, Classic was closed to new accounts and access was restricted to accounts who had played it at least once between 3 August 2005 and 12 January 2006. Additional reopenings took place in November 2009, June 2010 and September 2011.

To support RuneScape's free content, advertisements appear on a banner above the playing screen on the free-to-play servers. Since computer users may use advertisement blockers, which may discourage advertisers, Jagex introduced a rule that prohibits players from blocking these advertisements. On 13 July 2006, Jagex signed an exclusive marketing and distribution contract with WildTangent Games, which granted WildTangent the right to handle advertising in and around RuneScape in the United States, and to distribute RuneScape through the WildTangent Games Network, reaching over 20 million consumer PCs.

On 16 May 2006, Jagex upgraded RuneScape's game engine, improving the game's loading times and reducing its memory requirements. On 1 July 2008, Jagex released a beta of their "High Detail" mode for members, which was extended to free players two weeks later. Before the launch, Jagex stated that it would be revealed at the 2008 E3 trade show.

On 14 February 2007, a German translation of RuneScape was introduced, followed by a French translation on 11 December 2008, Brazilian Portuguese on 24 July 2009, and Latin American Spanish on 25 April 2013. In an interview in May 2008, former Jagex CEO Geoff Iddison stated that, "We do plan to go East with to the Asian market and the Eastern European market too" "RuneScape is not for Japan, but it could work well in Malaysia for example. And where's India in all this? I think RuneScape is a game that would be adopted in the English-speaking Indian world and the local-speaking Indian world. We're looking at all those markets individually." RuneScape later launched in India through the gaming portal Zapak on 8 October 2009, and in France and Germany through Bigpoint Games on 27 May 2010.

On 28 February 2012, an in-game feature was introduced called the "Squeal of Fortune" that allowed players to win items on a daily basis by spinning the wheel. On 2 April 2012, it became possible for players to spend real-world currency in exchange for additional spins, introducing a form of microtransaction to the game. Jagex CEO Mark Gerhard had previously described microtransactions as "a stealth tax", and the update provoked complaints from players who believed they had been "betrayed" by the change. In July 2012, Jagex released Solomon's General Store, making it possible to spend real currency in exchange for "RuneCoins" that could be spent on cosmetic rewards in the game. On 29 August 2012, Gerhard released a response to this controversy, describing these microtransactions as " a significant role in ensuring that we can continue to support, develop and grow the game for many more years to come." He states that while these decisions are "not necessarily popular", they are made with the future of RuneScape in mind. On 4 February 2014, the Squeal of Fortune was replaced with Treasure Hunter. Rather than spinning a wheel for prizes, players are given keys which are used to open a chest of their choosing. On 26 March 2014, Gerhard reiterated his stance on microtransactions and their importance in updating RuneScape, and announced a partnership with Supersonic ads, allowing players to earn RuneCoins by watching advertisements or sampling products.

On 30 August 2012, Gerhard announced that an HTML5 version of RuneScape was in development that would allow the game to be played on "your favourite tablets, platforms and even smart TVs." A video released on 22 March 2013 stated that the new version would be called RuneScape 3 and would use WebGL, and would include a fully customisable user interface and improved audio. A closed beta of the HTML5 version went live on 17 April 2013, followed by a separate alpha version of the new interface on 24 April. RuneScape 3 was released on 22 July 2013.

At RuneFest 2014, Jagex announced that they were developing a new client to replace the HTML5 version, which had never been released from beta due to performance issues. The new client, named NXT, would include improvements to loading times, new graphical effects and better performance. Closed betas took place on 19–22 February and 18–21 March 2016, followed by a public release on 18 April 2016.

On 23 May 2018, it was announced that due to constantly accumulating bugs and a game engine that has become incompatible with modern support tools of the company, RuneScape Classic servers would be permanently closed on 6 August 2018. RuneScape was released on Steam on 14 October 2020.

Graphics and audio

RuneScape can be run with varying levels of graphical detail. High-detail graphics enhance texture and design, while low-detail graphics provide a cleaner look and can reduce lag on less powerful computers. RuneScape uses a graphics engine called "RuneTek 5", which provides support for multiple graphics platforms such as DirectX, OpenGL and video game consoles, as well as graphical effects such as sky boxes, bloom lighting and Z-buffering. The high-detail version incorporates hardware acceleration and can be rendered using either Java OpenGL or DirectX.

RuneScape features a character-customisation system. Player characters are human; however, players may choose the gender, hairstyle, facial hair, skin colour, and clothing options. Appearance is further complemented by wearing or wielding items. Players can express emotions through the use of specialised animations called emotes, some of which are standard and others earned through gameplay or released during holiday events.

RuneScape has original music and ambient soundscapes. The music was designed to define the underlying cultures of the various locations accessible, and ambient sounds, such as the cry of seagulls flying over the ocean, occur in logical places. The game also incorporates voice acting in certain areas and situations. The RuneScape 3 update included orchestral music recorded in Bratislava, Slovakia, and was scored by James Hannigan.

Servers

As of November 2011, there were 139 English RuneScape servers located throughout the world, which are numbered and referred to as "worlds" by players and by Jagex. They are located in the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, the Netherlands, Australia, Sweden, Finland, Belgium, Ireland, Norway, Denmark, New Zealand, Mexico, France, Lithuania, and India. Servers are moved or added as the need arises.

Each RuneScape server allows up to 2,000 players to log in simultaneously, allowing a maximum capacity of more than 278,000 players. The servers are divided into free servers which are available for all players, and servers which are reserved for paying members. Some servers are given activity labels, allowing players performing tasks that require or desire group participation to group together.

Old School RuneScape

Main article: Old School RuneScape

In February 2013, a poll was opened allowing players to decide whether Jagex should open a separate incarnation of RuneScape from August 2007. Old School RuneScape was opened to paying subscribers on 22 February 2013 after the poll received 50,000 votes, and a free-to-play version was later released on 19 February 2015. It was originally created as an exact copy of RuneScape from August 2007 and receives regular content additions. Old School RuneScape is entirely community based; for any proposed update or idea to pass into the game, it needs at least 75% of the community to vote 'Yes' for it, and if it does not pass it will either be dropped or reconstructed and re-polled so that the players may find the update more acceptable. On 17 July 2017, Jagex announced a mobile port of Old School RuneScape, which was released in 2018.

DarkScape

On 16 September 2015 Jagex released DarkScape, a separate version of RuneScape which featured open-world player versus player combat. DarkScape was originally released with most of RuneScape's content, but received separate content updates. DarkScape was completely free to play, with some additional benefits reserved for paying subscribers. DarkScape closed on 28 March 2016 due to lack of interest.

Community

A set of forums are provided by Jagex on the RuneScape website. On the forums, players are able to participate in game discussions, arrange to buy or sell items, post suggestions for game improvements, vote in polls, and otherwise interact with the community. A user can set an avatar, have a separate display name and set an automatic signature. User profiles display the recent posts a user has made along with the option to disable smileys. The privilege of posting on the forums is limited to paying members, as well as free players with a total level exceeding 350.

Between 24 September 2002 and 9 December 2004, players could submit questions via e-mail to the RuneScape gods, which were published in the form of letters. On 26 September 2005, a new feature known as Postbag from the Hedge was introduced, where players can submit questions via e-mail to a non-player character in the game. Players can also submit original RuneScape related artwork (such as sculptures, comics, drawings and paintings), some of which is displayed in a gallery on the RuneScape website.

During various holidays, including Easter, Halloween and Christmas, Jagex hosts a holiday event in a specific location in Gielinor. Players who successfully complete the required tasks during the event receive a reward such as an item or an emote, allowing the player character to perform a gesture conveying an emotion. Holiday items released prior to 2002 are tradeable among players, and due to their rarity are worth significant amounts of money on the player market. Holiday items after Christmas 2002 are untradeable and limited to one per player and can be retrieved if lost.

Various RuneScape fansites have been established by players, which are a source of information about the game. For account security reasons, Jagex discourages the discussion of fansites within the game or the forums – and a rule specifically prohibits sharing web addresses. A major fansite has criticised Jagex for not recognising fansites' contributions to the development of its game. However, as a result of announcements made in 2009, Jagex promised to increase communication with fansites.

On 28 July 2014, Twitch functionality was integrated into the game, allowing players to stream their gameplay or view other streams from within the game.

Rules and cheating

Jagex has employed rules for player conduct, such as rules against offensive language, scamming, and bug abuse. To enforce the rules, an in-game feature exists that allows a player to send a report to Jagex if they notice another player breaking a rule. RuneScape also uses four types of moderators: Jagex Moderators, who are Jagex employees; Local Moderators, who are employees of Jagex's partners in certain territories; Player Moderators, who are trusted players that enforce the rules within the game; and Forum Moderators, who are trusted players who monitor the game forums. Players who repeatedly break the rules may be temporarily or permanently banned from playing the game.

There are also rules prohibiting the use of third-party software to play the game, known as "macroing" or "botting", and the sale of game items for real money through real-world trading. In an attempt to stop cheating, Jagex made direct interaction with the client difficult, established rules against the practice, and introduced random events that required player input to complete. In response to continued gold farming, Jagex issued a statement condemning real-world trading, stating that they were seizing billions of gold and banning thousands of accounts every week for cheating, and promising to increase their efforts to prevent real-world trading in the game.

From October 2007 to December 2007, Jagex began releasing a series of updates to restrict unbalanced trades. The updates limited the value of items staked in duels, removed player-versus-player combat from the Wilderness, made valuable player drops invisible to other players, introduced gravestones for the items of dead players, instituted systems for assisting players with skills and sharing loot among groups of players, and established the Grand Exchange, a sharemarket-like trade system for RuneScape goods. Collectively, these changes were designed to make it extremely difficult for real-world traders to distribute gold and items to players. These features were restored on 1 February 2011 following a referendum among players in December 2010 on whether or not to do so.

On 25 October 2011, Jagex released an anti-bot system code-named the 'ClusterFlutterer', as part of a game update intended to permanently prevent "reflection" bots from working. The release of this was nicknamed the "Bot Nuke", and was estimated to have banned 98% of the accounts that were using bots, eventually resulting in 7.7 million account bans. From 26 September 2012 until its removal on 20 August 2018, accounts that were banned for using bots were sent to an isolated area named "Botany Bay" to be given an ultimate punishment as decided by players.

On 25 September 2013, Jagex introduced bonds to the game, in-game items that can be purchased using real currency then traded with other players or exchanged for membership, RuneCoins or additional spins on the game's Squeal of Fortune. Bonds were introduced to allow players to exchange real currency for in-game benefits legitimately, a move described by CEO Mark Gerhard as "essential for the future of RuneScape". One week later, Jagex reported that the amount of in-game coins brought in by gold farmers was down by 81%; real-world trading was down by 61% and the wealth of those trades was down by 63%.

Falador Massacre

The Falador Massacre was a historic bug that occurred on 6 June 2006. The bug caused several players to retain the ability to attack other players after leaving a designated PvP location. Ordinarily, players are only allowed to attack other players in player-owned houses, minigames, or in the Wilderness. According to a statement made by a Jagex employee, the bug was caused by insufficient testing of an update that saw the release of a new game skill, Construction, wherein players could create their own houses in which PvP combat could take place.

Although the bug was considered quite negative at the time of occurrence, Jagex has since recognized it as a historic event in the franchise, and has created in-game reenactments in both RuneScape and Old School RuneScape. On 6 June 2016, Jagex created two unique and isolated game servers (worlds 111 for RS3 and 666 for OSRS, commemorating 6/6/06) wherein PvP was enabled and players could attack an NPC named after "Durial321", one of the more well known players to have been affected by the bug. World 666 also played an in-game cover of the song "Planet Hell" by Nightwish, which was the song used in the original video of the event. The track was removed from the game when the event was over. The bug's reception has become part of internet culture. PC Gamer called the bug "One of the best all-time MMO bugs".

Reception

PC Gamer UK stated in December 2003, that while the "traditional values of questing, slaying monsters and developing your character in a familiar medieval setting" will not "have the big boys trembling in their +2 Boots of Subscriber Gathering," this is offset by the game's accessibility through a web browser, "compounded by a version of the game that allows free adventuring player the opportunity to upgrade to a members' account", describing the game as "an unsurprising success".

The Yahoo! 2006 Buzz Log stated that, "while it may not be as easy on the eyes as some other popular , like World of Warcraft, City of Heroes, or EverQuest, RuneScape is still a lot better way to kill time than pushing around cells in a spreadsheet". A 2007 JustRPG review summarised RuneScape as "a fun, addictive game, and while the graphics may not be perfect, for a game written in Java, they aren't bad. The skills are varied, the community is alright, and it'll eat up your time if you aren't careful", giving it a score of 83%.

In its 2008 intellectual property profile of the game, Developmag.com stated that whilst Jagex's changes to curtail real world trading resulted in "a wave of user criticism... growth is understood to have resumed since". Its analysis stated that "RuneScape's mass-market appeal lies in its simplicity and accessibility (both financial and technical). It has tapped into the vast market of games players unwilling or unable to spend premium prices on PCs capable of playing the latest, expensive, processor-intensive games. Its core gameplay concepts are very similar to its retail-distributed RPG and MMORPG analogues." In August 2008, RuneScape was recognised by the Guinness World Records as the world's most popular free MMORPG. Jagex was presented with a certificate to commemorate the achievement at the 2008 Leipzig Games Convention. A 2009 Eurogamer article criticised RuneScape's in-game community for being unfriendly to newcomers, although they have stated that the fan-forum community is more approachable.

An April 2011 review by MMORPG.com was complimentary of RuneScape, stating that "For anyone looking for that "old-school" experience but with also tons of progression, refinement, and unique ideas, RuneScape is easily recommendable", but criticised the game's combat system and emphasis on grinding. "...the genre feels slightly passed clicking an enemy and watching two swords clunk mercilessly into opposing body forms...RuneScape has grind in abundance and while this is not entirely a bad thing, it will put some players off looking for a slightly easier and more casual experience". The game received the "Role-Playing Game" award at The Independent Game Developers' Association Awards 2018.

On 10 December 2007, updates by Jagex removed free player-versus-player combat and unbalanced trading in order to rid the game of activities involving real currency being traded for virtual goods. The updates also affected legitimate players, resulting in many of them actively complaining on the forums. Jagex issued a Customer Support News article admitting the updates may not have been an ideal replacement for what was removed, requesting patience and promising to remedy potential problems with updates in the future. During the changes, subscription numbers fell by 60,000. No figures were given as to how many of those subscriptions belonged to legitimate players and how many to gold farmers. In an interview in February 2008, Jagex's head of content stated that, "we were really afraid we were going to lose our members over this change, because other games had in the past. But we are very, very pleased to say that we have lost practically none of our members."

In December 2010, a referendum was opened to decide whether to restore unbalanced trades and player-versus-player combat in the Wilderness, which closed with 1.2 million votes cast and 91% of voters in favour of the proposal, and these features were restored on 1 February 2011. A second referendum was announced in February 2013 to decide whether to run a separate version of the game dating from 2007, closing on 1 March 2013 with almost 450,000 votes. Servers for the 2007 version were opened on 22 February 2013 once 50,000 votes were collected.

Revenue

In 2018, it was reported that RuneScape had generated over US$1 billion in lifetime revenue since its original launch. RuneScape annually generates over £100 million in revenue and over £50 million in profit.

See also

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