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Revamping Practice Mode for Effective PVM Training in OSRS

May-23-2024 PST

Currently, the "Practice" mode in Old School RS is essentially just a normal instance with no tangible benefits. Players must pay for their supplies and bear the costs of dying, and if they fail at a specific mechanic, they have to start over from the beginning. This method is hardly conducive to learning. How is this supposed to help players improve their skills?

Revamping Practice Mode for Effective PVM Training in OSRS

As someone new to Player vs. Monster (PVM) content, I can reliably handle only Arch-Glacor, even up to 300% enrage in hard mode. The reason I can manage this boss is its unique system that allows toggling mechanics on and off for individual practice, followed by a full run with all mechanics combined, all without penalty for deaths. This approach is incredibly effective and highlights the need for similar improvements in the general practice mode.


A proper practice mode should enable players to focus on specific mechanics they struggle with, providing an environment where they can practice without the fear of losing supplies or incurring death costs. This mode should include free supplies usable only within the practice session, ensuring that players can experiment and learn without financial stress. The ability to choose and repeatedly practice particular mechanics until they are mastered would be immensely beneficial.


The current system discourages learning by making players redo content they already understand just to reach the troublesome part again, which is both frustrating and demotivating. I am not concerned with gaining drops or experience points during practice; my sole focus is mastering the mechanics. The financial burden and time investment required under the current system make the learning curve unnecessarily steep, pushing new players away rather than helping them "get good."


For those who dismiss these concerns with a "get good" mentality, understand that my intention is precisely to improve my skills. Moreover, the argument that others had to learn this way is flawed. Embracing innovation and improving systems is crucial for attracting and retaining new players. The current UI and systems are not user-friendly for newcomers, and if the game is to thrive, it needs features that facilitate learning.


Learning a boss fight shouldn't cost 20 million OSRS GP in supplies and death fees, nor should it require over 30 hours of repetitive attempts. Many players have other commitments and limited time. An improved practice mode would enable efficient learning without these unnecessary barriers. The resistance to such changes often stems from a desire to gatekeep content, which ultimately harms the game's longevity.


In conclusion, the current practice mode, which only removes death costs without offering loot, is insufficient. Players need the ability to skip to specific fight phases to practice particular mechanics. The game already has a precedent for providing free supplies in the Shattered Worlds minigame. OSRS could take inspiration from rhythm games like "A Dance of Fire and Ice" (ADOFAI), where players can practice specific parts of a level and adjust the speed for easier learning. While completing the level normally is required to progress, the practice mode allows focused training on challenging sections.


By adopting these improvements, OSRS can create a practice mode that truly supports player growth and skill development, ensuring a more welcoming and rewarding experience for all players. And buy osrs infernal cape or osrs boosting service, helps with your PVM training.