RuneScape

RuneScape – Old School & RuneScape 3 Overview

RuneScape – a game with two worlds

Since its launch in 2001, RuneScape has become one of the most iconic MMORPGs in gaming history. Its vast open world, unique quest system, and freedom of choice attracted millions of players and built a legacy that still thrives today.

Unlike most MMOs that follow a single direction, RuneScape grew into two parallel versions, each with its own identity:

Old School RuneScape (OSRS): The beloved 2007 edition, revived by community demand. Every update is decided by player polls, keeping progression challenging and authentic. Recent additions such as Poll 85 Bridges, Boots & Ropes and the Doom Combat Achievements show that OSRS continues to evolve without losing its roots.

RuneScape 3 (RS3): The modern continuation, powered by enhanced 3D visuals, ability-based combat, and frequent expansions. With seasonal events, Double XP Weekends, and bosses like Amascut, Goddess of Destruction, RS3 delivers constant innovation for players who want faster, more dynamic gameplay.

Both versions share the legendary setting of Gielinor, but each offers a completely different path. One focuses on tradition and community-driven gameplay, the other on innovation and constant updates.

The world of Gielinor

The world of Gielinor is the living stage where every RuneScape adventure unfolds. Kingdoms, deserts, forests, and the dangerous Wilderness each come with their own history, characters, and challenges. Whether you play OSRS or RS3, this world feels alive and shaped by your choices.

Quests with depth
RuneScape quests are famous for storytelling. They are not simple fetch tasks but involve puzzles, dialogue choices, and unique boss fights. Some are lighthearted, others grow into epic sagas that define the history of Gielinor.

PvE challenges
From battling goblins outside Lumbridge to legendary bosses like the Corporeal Beast or Amascut, PvE in RuneScape always offers variety. Raids, dungeons, and seasonal events bring unique rewards and long-term goals. To face these challenges, players need the best gear, potions, and supplies and all of it depends on gold.

PvP zones full of risk and reward
In OSRS, the Wilderness remains one of the most iconic PvP zones in MMO history, where every fight can mean total loss or huge profit. In RS3, structured arenas and competitive events provide more balanced alternatives. But no matter the format, victory in PvP requires preparation, resources, and a strong economy behind you.

In RuneScape, the world is not just a backdrop. Every quest, monster, and encounter is tied to the economy. From PvE consumables to PvP gear, gold is what makes adventure possible.

OSRS vs RS3 – key differences

Old School RuneScape (OSRS)

  • Visuals: Classic low-poly graphics that defined an era and keep the nostalgia alive.
  • Progression: Slower but rewarding, focused on patience, mastery, and long-term goals.
  • Community-driven: Every update is decided by player polls. Recent changes like Poll 85 Bridges, Boots & Ropes or the Pet Insurance Rework show how much influence the community has.
  • Economy: The 07 GP currency is the backbone of progression. Every piece of gear, every bond, and every Grand Exchange trade revolves around gold.

RuneScape 3 (RS3)

  • Modern look: Enhanced 3D engine, polished animations, and a full soundtrack.
  • Combat: The Abilities System creates fast-paced, action-oriented battles compared to OSRS’s tactical style.
  • Content variety: Frequent seasonal events, daily challenges, and the Treasure Hunter system keep the world in motion. Updates like Double XP Weekends and the Amascut boss highlight RS3’s evolving endgame.
  • Accessibility: Designed for both casual and hardcore players, offering convenience while still rewarding dedication.

Progression always ties into wealth. OSRS Gold fuels the classic grind, while RS3 Gold powers the modern adventure.

RuneScape economy

RuneScape has one of the most dynamic player-driven economies in MMO history. Prices, resources, and trade flows are shaped entirely by the community, creating a living market that reacts to every update and decision.

  • Grand Exchange: The central marketplace where items are bought and sold. Prices shift constantly with supply and demand, making flipping items a full gameplay loop.
  • Bonds: Special tradeable items that let players exchange in-game gold for membership. This connects progression directly to the economy and allows access to premium content without spending real money.
  • Skills: Professions like Woodcutting, Fishing, Smithing, and Herblore form the backbone of the economy. High-level skillers supply resources, while PvM players and traders fuel demand. Every log, fish, or potion has real value in Gielinor.

This design makes RuneScape’s economy one of the most immersive in the MMO genre and ensures that gold is always in demand.

Community & updates

RuneScape has thrived for over two decades thanks to its passionate community and constant stream of updates.

  • OSRS – Community in control: Every major change must pass a player vote, ensuring that Old School RuneScape always reflects the will of its audience.
  • RS3 – An evolving world: RuneScape 3 takes the opposite approach, delivering frequent quests, bosses, seasonal events, and expansions that push the game forward.
  • Shared passion: Whether in OSRS or RS3, the RuneScape community is one of the most loyal in the MMO genre. Clans, tournaments, livestreams, and fan projects expand Gielinor far beyond the game itself.

This balance of tradition in OSRS and innovation in RS3, supported by a vibrant player economy, is what makes RuneScape unique even after 20 years.

RuneScape FAQ

Is RuneScape still active today?
Yes. Both OSRS and RS3 remain highly active in 2025. OSRS evolves through weekly polls and updates such as Poll 85 Bridges, Boots & Ropes and Doom Combat Achievements. RS3 keeps moving forward with new quests, Double XP events, and bosses like Amascut, Goddess of Destruction. Millions of players log in monthly, supported by clans, streamers, and a dedicated community.
What is the difference between OSRS and RS3?
OSRS is based on the 2007 version of RuneScape with retro graphics, slower progression, and community-approved updates. RS3 features modern visuals, ability-based combat, and frequent content drops. Both share the same lore but offer very different experiences.
How does the Grand Exchange work?
The Grand Exchange is the game’s central marketplace. Prices shift with supply and demand, much like a stock exchange. Some players profit by flipping items, while others use it to quickly gear up or restock.
Can I play without paying for membership?
Yes. RuneScape offers Bonds, tradeable items that unlock membership through in-game gold. This allows access to premium quests, skills, and areas without spending real money.
What are skills in RuneScape?
Skills drive both progression and the economy. From Woodcutting and Fishing to Herblore, Smithing, and Construction, every action produces resources or items with real market value. High-level skills can create serious wealth while unlocking unique gameplay paths.
Is RuneScape free to play?
Yes. Both OSRS and RS3 have free-to-play worlds with quests and skills. Membership expands the map, adds exclusive skills like Agility or Slayer, and unlocks the full storyline. Many players begin in F2P and later use Bonds or gold to step into membership.
How does PvP work in RuneScape?
In OSRS, PvP is centered around the Wilderness, a high-risk zone where every fight can mean profit or loss. RS3 provides structured arenas and minigames for more balanced PvP. Both reward preparation, risk-taking, and strategy.
Why has RuneScape lasted for over 20 years?
RuneScape’s strength is its dual nature. OSRS preserves nostalgia and tradition, while RS3 constantly innovates with modern mechanics. Combined with an active community and a player-driven economy, RuneScape continues to attract both veterans and newcomers.

Start Your RuneScape Journey Today

For more than twenty years, RuneScape has given players the freedom to shape their adventure, from questing and PvP battles to trading and skill mastery. Whether you prefer the classic challenge of OSRS or the modern pace of RS3, Gielinor offers endless ways to play.

At the center of it all is gold. OSRS Gold and RS3 Gold unlock faster progression, stronger gear, and full access to every update.

Start your journey with CoinLooting today and enjoy safe trades, instant delivery, and the freedom to play RuneScape your way.