Few MMORPGs can claim the longevity, cultural impact, and community devotion that RuneScape has built over the past quarter century. As Jagex prepares to celebrate RuneScape 25th anniversary in 2026, the studio is marking the milestone with its most ambitious year yet. Under the banner of “RS25”, RuneScape is entering a new era defined by large-scale content updates, community-driven design, and global live events that reflect how far the franchise has come since its humble beginnings.

A Landmark Investment Year for RuneScape

Jagex has confirmed that 2026 represents its biggest investment year ever, aimed at transforming RuneScape into a more transparent, player-focused live service. This renewed commitment will impact every corner of the franchise, from RuneScape 3 to Old School RuneScape and beyond. Major events are planned on both sides of the Atlantic, reinforcing RuneScape global reach and celebrating the community that has supported it for 25 years.

For RuneScape 3 players, change begins early. Player avatar updates, sweeping visual improvements, and enhanced player support systems are all part of the plan. One of the most significant shifts arrives on January 19, when Jagex will host the next RS Ahead livestream, unveiling the long-anticipated Integrity Roadmap. On the same day, the controversial Treasure Hunter event will be removed, along with numerous associated items, signaling a bold step toward restoring trust and balance in the game economy.

Old School RuneScape Enters a New Chapter

Old School RuneScape is also gearing up for a massive year following the successful introduction of the Sailing skill. Jagex is preparing to launch a brand-new OSRS roadmap that builds on this momentum, featuring a new large-scale team raid, additional Grandmaster-level quests, and a fresh seasonal structure. These updates are being shaped directly by player feedback, reinforcing OSRS reputation as one of the most community-driven MMOs in the industry.

Alongside gameplay updates, OSRS will host its largest creator event ever, titled Undead: Factions. This event brings together creators and players in a competitive showcase that highlights the evolving social side of the game. Meanwhile, anticipation continues to build toward the OSRS Winter Summit on January 25, where Jagex is expected to reveal even more long-term plans.

As new content rolls out, the in-game economy remains a focal point for players. Whether preparing for raids or tackling high-level quests, managing resources such as OSRS gold remains essential. Many players continue to rely on trusted marketplaces like from the RSgoldfast store to efficiently support their in-game goals while navigating RuneScape ever-changing world.

Expanding the Universe With Dragon Wild

Beyond the core MMORPG experience, Jagex is expanding the RuneScape universe with RuneScape: Dragon Wild, a fantasy survival game scheduled for official launch later this year. The title is expected to deliver a wealth of new content at release, and Jagex projects sales exceeding one million copies in 2025 alone.

The development team has already confirmed three major content updates planned for the year, including expansions to the Ashfall map, new quests, additional skills, and—true to RuneScape tradition—plenty of dragons. More details will be revealed during the RuneScape: Dragon Wild Summit livestream on January 29, offering fans a deeper look at how the game fits into the broader RuneScape legacy.

Music, Memories, and the RS25 Celebration

One of the most striking tributes to RuneScape history arrives in the form of the RuneScape: 25th Anniversary 5LP Vinyl Box Set. Spanning decades of iconic compositions, the collection condenses the franchise’s vast musical legacy into an authoritative celebration of its soundscape. For many players, these tracks are inseparable from memories of exploration, combat, and discovery.

The vinyl release officially kicks off the year-long RS25 celebration, which is backed by Jagex largest annual investment to date. This celebration is not just about nostalgia—it represents a forward-looking reset for the franchise. Plans include the complete removal of microtransactions from RuneScape 3, ambitious new OSRS content, and large-scale live experiences that bring the community together in person.

Among the most exciting announcements is a doubled-capacity RuneFest, reflecting growing demand for in-person celebrations, as well as RuneScape first major tournament in the United States. These events underline Jagex intent to push RuneScape onto a larger global stage while staying rooted in the community that made it successful.

As RuneScape approaches its 25th anniversary, it stands as a rare example of an online world that continues to evolve without losing its identity. With sweeping updates, community-first design, and a renewed vision for the future, RS25 is shaping up to be more than a celebration—it’s a statement of intent for the next generation of RuneScape adventurers.