2012 was a yr for Runescape. It began with the extremely unpopular introduction of the pay-to-win Squeal of Fortune system, which might later develop into Treasure Hunter. Then, to compound issues additional, the massively divisive Evolution of Fight replace got here alongside, leading to gamers quitting in droves. In a bizarre, roundabout manner, these dominoes falling is arguably the very best factor to occur to developer Jagex, as, with out hitting all-time low, it seemingly would not be thriving in the best way it’s at present – thanks, Previous College.
Although Previous College has by far been the most well-liked iteration of the enduring MMO, having lately damaged one more participant file after blowing up final yr, Jagex is way from executed with Runescape correct. On the finish of 2025, it made the daring determination to place axing Treasure Hunter to the polls. Over 125,000 neighborhood votes later, the MTX evil was defeated, signalling the daybreak of a brand new period for Runescape. However the studio did not cease there, asserting an ‘integrity roadmap’ that aimed to revive RS’s rep by the top of 2026. Now, the studio has offered additional particulars on what we are able to count on from the yr forward, alongside a separate, beefy content material roadmap that features its “largest space growth” ever.
Beginning with the integrity roadmap, there’s lots to like. Jagex is planning a UI replace, fight modernization, DailyScape and Aura overhauls, a decluttering of RS’ visuals, a complete content material rebalance, and, maybe most excitingly, API plugin assist. Previous College gamers have been spoiled by the delights of Runelite plugins for years, so it is nice to see its older (youthful?) sibling open up correct third-party assist.
Now on to the *pinched Italian hand gesture* content material. As of now, Treasure Hunter is lifeless – hooray! This leads us properly into Spring 2026, which introduces the primary of a two-part growth referred to as Havenhythe. In line with an accompanying presser, half one “will see the introduction of latest quests and early-game bosses, in addition to an elevated degree cap of 110 for the Hunter ability.” Although we do not know all the pieces concerning the second half of the growth, which launches this winter, the roadmap notes there will be a “remastered content material replace” and a “new end-game boss.”
As we transfer from spring to summer time, Jagex is ready to launch a “full refresh” of the present participant avatar mannequin. This brings with it “updates to fashions, animations, hairstyles, and clothes.” I acquired a sneak peek after I visited Jagex HQ final week, and the bald head of the default avatar has by no means glistened so brightly; the bald brotherhood approves.
A suped-up character wants a suitably renovated house. This summer time, they’re going to be getting simply that. “Alongside a rise to [level] 120,” Jagex says, “the Development ability will get a brand new recipe system that lets gamers unlock and construct furnishings impressed by in-game achievements, adventures, and victories.” Runescape’s participant housing system has all the time been extra about utility than anything, and Jagex hopes this replace will assist gamers “create an area that feels private, welcoming, and value visiting.”
The ultimate factor of be aware on the roadmap is that Autumn 2026 will see the return of Leagues. Whereas RS’ first try paled compared to Previous College’s just about perfected components, the workforce is taking loads of learnings from each its first crack at Leagues, in addition to what its sibling has been as much as. Count on one thing particular this time round.
Although I am very a lot a savant for Previous College’s point-and-click model gameplay, and have been essential of ‘fashionable’ Runescape through the years, I am unable to assist however be impressed by the sheer quantity of labor going into the sport. The dying of Treasure Hunter has already piqued my curiosity, and I’ve a sense it will not be lengthy earlier than I chew the bullet and delve into this rejuvenated model of Gielinor.
