New RuneScape MMO Announced

Developer Jagex has announced a fourth MMO in the long-running RuneScape franchise, as well as an animated adaptation.

At RuneFest in Birmingham, England, Jagex offered a glimpse at this new MMO, which it said was built “for a new generation of players.” It’s still in early development, with a release not expected for at least a few years. While it doesn’t have an official title, Jagex is using RS4 as a working title. The game aims to “bring the world of Gielinor to life in Unreal Engine, combining the depth, freedom and community-led spirit that have defined RuneScape for 25 years with the technology and game design possibilities of today.”

Jagex currently manages RuneScape, Old School RuneScape, and the spinoff RuneScape: Dragonwilds. While RuneScape has received major updates previously referred to as RuneScape 2 and RuneScape 3, these were later integrated into the ongoing live service. The new game, though tempting to call RuneScape 4, has not yet received an official title from Jagex.

With the mention of Unreal Engine, the new RuneScape MMO is expected to feature modern visuals and design.

Here's the official blurb on the fourth RuneScape MMO:

Early Development & Vision

The new RuneScape MMO, currently unnamed and in early development, was the headline announcement at RuneFest. Designed for a new generation, it will utilize Unreal Engine to bring the world of Gielinor to life, merging the franchise's 25-year legacy of depth, freedom, and community with modern technology and game design.

Jagex clarified that the early announcement of RS4 is to build upon the technological advancements from Dragonwilds and leverage community co-development. The developer emphasized that RS4 will not replace existing titles like RuneScape, Old School, or Dragonwilds, which will continue to receive investment. Instead, RS4 will serve as an additional way to experience Gielinor.

Jagex stated that having diverse RuneScape experiences can strengthen the entire franchise, allowing players to engage with one game, move between several, or discover Gielinor through RS4. The goal is to expand the RuneScape universe, not replace current games.

Setting and Lore

RS4 will be set in Gielinor, specifically in the Sixth Age. The narrative will begin in Ashenfall, an area previously explored in RuneScape: Dragonwilds and located north-east of Gielinor, which players have only recently started to discover.

The new game will take place years after the events of Dragonwilds and the destruction of the Dragon Queen Kuldra, with Ashenfall having evolved over time. This initial setting is just the beginning of a broader adventure.

Jagex plans for the adventure to extend beyond Ashenfall, incorporating familiar locations and introducing new areas and stories across Gielinor.

RuneScape Animated Adaptation

RuneScape, one of the world's longest-running video games with over 300 million player accounts created in 25 years, is expanding into new genres and adaptations. Jagex announced an animated adaptation at RuneFest, developed in partnership with YouTuber Charlie White, known as MoistCr1TiKaL, and LA-based production company Lyrical Media.

Additionally, Jagex unveiled plans to expand RuneScape beyond games, partnering with creator and internet phenomenon, Charlie White aka MoistCr1TiKaL as well as acclaimed LA Based production business Lyrical Media, to bring the world, characters and stories of Gielinor to life in a new exciting animated adaption.

Jagex announced a lot more at RuneFest today. Here’s everything we saw.