Runescape vs Old School Runescape: Which One Reigns Supreme?

Runescape and Old School Runescape are two massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs) developed and published by Jagex. Runescape was first released in 2001 and quickly gained popularity for its open-world gameplay and extensive skill system. Old School Runescape, on the other hand, is a version of the game that was released in 2013, bringing back the classic gameplay and graphics of the game from 2007.

The purpose of this blog post is to provide a comprehensive comparison between Runescape and Old School Runescape, highlighting the differences in gameplay, graphics, combat systems, quests, communities, microtransactions, skill training, and player feedback. By examining these aspects, players can make an informed decision about which version of the game they prefer or if they should try both.

The history of Runescape and Old School Runescape

Runescape was originally developed by Andrew and Paul Gower and released in January 2001. It quickly gained a large player base and became one of the most popular MMORPGs of its time. The game featured a vast open world where players could explore, complete quests, engage in combat, and train various skills. Over the years, Runescape received numerous updates and expansions, expanding the game world and adding new content.

In 2013, Jagex released Old School Runescape as a response to player demand for a version of the game that resembled the original 2007 version. Old School Runescape brought back the classic graphics, gameplay mechanics, and content from that era. It was well-received by players who wanted to experience the nostalgia of the early days of Runescape.

Since its release, both games have continued to receive updates and changes to keep them fresh and engaging for players. These updates have introduced new quests, areas, skills, and gameplay mechanics to both Runescape and Old School Runescape.

Gameplay differences between Runescape and Old School Runescape

The gameplay mechanics of both Runescape and Old School Runescape are similar in many ways. Players can explore the open world, complete quests, engage in combat, and train various skills. However, there are some key differences between the two games.

In Runescape, the combat system is based on a player’s combat level and the stats of their equipment. Players can choose from a variety of combat styles, including melee, ranged, and magic. The combat is more fast-paced and action-oriented, with abilities and special attacks that can be used during battles.

Old School Runescape, on the other hand, features a more traditional combat system. Players have a combat level that determines their effectiveness in combat, but the combat mechanics are simpler and more focused on strategy and timing. Players can choose from a variety of combat styles, but the combat is slower-paced and relies more on player skill and knowledge of the game.

Graphics and visual differences between Runescape and Old School Runescape

One of the most noticeable differences between Runescape and Old School Runescape is the graphics and visual style of the games. Runescape features modern, high-definition graphics with detailed character models, environments, and special effects. The game has a more realistic and immersive visual style, with vibrant colors and detailed textures.

Old School Runescape, on the other hand, retains the classic graphics and visual style of the game from 2007. The game has a more pixelated and retro look, with simpler character models, environments, and special effects. The visual style is nostalgic for players who grew up playing the game in its early days.

Combat system differences between Runescape and Old School Runescape

The combat systems in both Runescape and Old School Runescape have their own unique mechanics and gameplay elements. In Runescape, combat is more fast-paced and action-oriented. Players can use a variety of abilities and special attacks to defeat enemies. The combat is based on a player’s combat level and the stats of their equipment.

In Old School Runescape, combat is more strategic and slower-paced. Players must carefully time their attacks and use the right combat style to defeat enemies. The combat is based on a player’s combat level and their skill in using the different combat styles.

Quests and storyline differences between Runescape and Old School Runescape

Both Runescape and Old School Runescape feature a wide variety of quests and storylines for players to complete. In Runescape, quests are an integral part of the game and provide players with a way to progress through the game world and unlock new content. The quests in Runescape are often complex and involve multiple steps and objectives.

In Old School Runescape, quests are also an important part of the game, but they are generally simpler and more straightforward compared to Runescape. The quests in Old School Runescape often involve completing tasks for NPCs or exploring specific areas of the game world.

Community and player base differences between Runescape and Old School Runescape

The communities and player bases of both Runescape and Old School Runescape are vibrant and active. However, there are some differences between the two games in terms of the types of players and the overall community atmosphere.

Runescape has a larger player base and a more diverse community. The game attracts players of all ages and backgrounds, from casual players who enjoy exploring the game world and completing quests, to hardcore players who focus on high-level combat and skill training.

Old School Runescape has a smaller player base compared to Runescape, but it has a dedicated and passionate community. The game attracts players who enjoy the nostalgia of the classic version of the game and prefer the simpler gameplay mechanics and graphics.

Microtransactions and monetization differences between Runescape and Old School Runescape

Both Runescape and Old School Runescape have microtransactions and monetization models, but there are some differences between the two games in terms of how they handle these features.

Runescape features a freemium model, where players can access the game for free but have the option to purchase membership to unlock additional content and features. The game also offers cosmetic items and other in-game items for purchase through microtransactions.

Old School Runescape also features a freemium model, but it does not have as many microtransactions as Runescape. The game primarily relies on membership subscriptions for monetization, with cosmetic items and other in-game items available for purchase.

Skill training and leveling differences between Runescape and Old School Runescape

Both Runescape and Old School Runescape have extensive skill training and leveling systems that allow players to progress and improve their characters. However, there are some differences between the two games in terms of how these systems work.

In Runescape, players can train a wide variety of skills, including combat skills, gathering skills, crafting skills, and more. The skill training in Runescape is more complex and involves a combination of activities, such as fighting monsters, gathering resources, and completing quests.

In Old School Runescape, the skill training is simpler and more focused on traditional methods. Players can train skills by performing specific actions, such as fishing to train the fishing skill or mining to train the mining skill. The skill training in Old School Runescape is more time-consuming and requires more effort compared to Runescape.

Player feedback and opinions on Runescape and Old School Runescape

Player feedback and opinions on both Runescape and Old School Runescape are varied and subjective. Some players prefer the modern graphics and gameplay mechanics of Runescape, while others enjoy the nostalgia and simplicity of Old School Runescape.

Many players appreciate the updates and new content that Runescape has received over the years, as it keeps the game fresh and engaging. However, some players feel that the game has become too complex and overwhelming, with too many updates and changes.

On the other hand, players who enjoy Old School Runescape appreciate the classic graphics and gameplay mechanics that resemble the early days of the game. They enjoy the slower-paced and more strategic combat, as well as the simpler skill training and leveling systems.

Future updates and developments for Runescape and Old School Runescape

Both Runescape and Old School Runescape have a roadmap of upcoming updates and developments that will continue to improve and expand the games.

Runescape has a dedicated team of developers who are constantly working on new content and features for the game. They regularly release updates that introduce new quests, areas, skills, and gameplay mechanics. The future updates for Runescape will continue to build on the existing content and provide new experiences for players.

Old School Runescape also has a team of developers who are focused on maintaining the classic gameplay and graphics of the game. They release updates that are voted on by the player community, ensuring that the game remains true to its roots. The future updates for Old School Runescape will continue to bring back classic content and introduce new features that are in line with the game’s original vision.

Conclusion and final thoughts on Runescape vs Old School Runescape

In conclusion, both Runescape and Old School Runescape offer unique and engaging MMORPG experiences. Runescape provides a modern and immersive gameplay experience with high-definition graphics, fast-paced combat, and complex skill training systems. Old School Runescape, on the other hand, offers a nostalgic journey back to the classic version of the game with pixelated graphics, strategic combat, and simpler skill training systems.

Ultimately, the choice between Runescape and Old School Runescape comes down to personal preference. Some players may prefer the modern and updated version of Runescape, while others may enjoy the nostalgia and simplicity of Old School Runescape. Both games have their own strengths and weaknesses, and it’s up to the individual player to decide which version of the game they enjoy more.