Is RuneScape Coming to Xbox? The Definitive Answer & FAQs
The question of whether RuneScape will grace the Xbox console has been a recurring one within the gaming community for quite some time. The short answer is: it’s complicated. While a direct, official release of RuneScape on Xbox in the traditional sense is not currently confirmed, the situation is nuanced. Let’s break it down.
RuneScape itself, in its flagship forms (both RS3 and OSRS), has not been officially announced for Xbox. However, there are elements that connect the franchise to Xbox, creating confusion and sparking ongoing speculation among fans. This includes RuneScape perks available through Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and an indication that Jagex, the developer, is working on a RuneScape related project for consoles. To understand the situation fully, we need to look at different aspects of the RuneScape universe and Jagex’s plans.
RuneScape and Console: A Murky History
Jagex has indeed explored the possibility of consoles for the RuneScape franchise. In the 2020/2021 roadmap, there were talks about exploring a console release. However, this hasn’t translated into a direct port of the core games, RuneScape 3 or Old School RuneScape (OSRS). Instead, what’s been confirmed is a survival game from the RuneScape franchise is in development for consoles.
This subtle distinction is important. Jagex isn’t focused on porting the existing MMO games to consoles; instead, they’re developing a new title within the RuneScape universe designed specifically for console play. This game was mentioned alongside a recent announcement that they’ve hired developers specifically to work on it, signaling concrete progress. The timeline for its release is still unclear.
The confusion might stem from the fact that certain RuneScape experiences are available on consoles through other means. For instance, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate provides members with perks within the existing PC/Mobile versions of RuneScape. These perks include experience boosting items, in-game currency, and a free pet, creating an association with the Xbox platform without the game being playable directly on the console.
RuneScape on Other Platforms
It’s worth noting the breadth of platforms already accessible for RuneScape. The core game, both RuneScape 3 and Old School RuneScape, are playable on Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems. They’ve also expanded into the mobile realm, with fully functional iOS and Android apps, featuring full cross-platform play with the PC counterparts. This means your progress is seamless, whether you’re at your computer or on the go. The successful implementation of cross-platform on mobile suggests that it’s technically feasible to also expand the player base to consoles.
The Future of RuneScape on Consoles
While the traditional RuneScape experience is not on Xbox consoles as of yet, the console ecosystem isn’t devoid of RuneScape entirely. With the upcoming, yet-unnamed, RuneScape survival game, fans who prefer console gaming will soon have something to look forward to. The potential console release aligns with the growing trend of MMORPGs expanding to various platforms and will make the RuneScape experience more accessible.
The gaming market is constantly evolving, so it’s certainly possible we’ll see further expansions in the future. Until then, gamers will have to be satisfied with PC, mobile, and the exciting promise of the new console title within the RuneScape universe.
RuneScape FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
To further clarify any remaining questions, here’s a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions regarding RuneScape, its platform availability, and the broader franchise:
General RuneScape Questions
1. Can You Play RuneScape on Xbox?
As of now, the main games, RuneScape 3 and Old School RuneScape (OSRS) are not directly playable on Xbox consoles. However, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate offers perks for the PC/Mobile versions and a new console game is in development within the RuneScape universe.
2. Is RuneScape Coming to Consoles?
A RuneScape franchise game is coming to consoles. This is not a direct port of the original MMOs but rather a survival game. Details remain scarce, but it is under active development.
3. What is the closest thing to RuneScape on Xbox?
If you are looking for an MMO experience similar to RuneScape on Xbox, Black Desert Online is a solid option.
4. Is RuneScape on Xbox Game Pass?
While RuneScape isn’t directly playable through Xbox Game Pass, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members can claim perks for the PC/Mobile versions, such as XP boosts and in-game currency.
5. Where Can I Play RuneScape?
RuneScape is primarily played on Windows, Mac, and Linux computers, and is also available as a mobile app for both iOS and Android devices with full cross-platform functionality.
6. Does Anyone Still Play RuneScape?
Yes! RuneScape remains a popular MMORPG with a dedicated player base. While the number of new players may not be as high as the peak of the game, there is a large community of veterans who regularly return to the game.
7. Is OSRS or RS3 better?
This is a matter of preference. RS3 is generally considered more casual-friendly due to faster leveling and skilling, while OSRS is more grindy, appealing to players seeking the more traditional RuneScape experience.
8. Is RuneScape Still Good in 2023?
RuneScape 3 continues to be a compelling MMORPG in 2023, with several updates and improvements.
RuneScape Game-Specific Questions
9. What is the oldest RuneScape game?
The first public version of RuneScape was released in January 2001 as a beta, later to be renamed RuneScape Classic after the release of RuneScape 2.
10. Is RuneScape free to play?
RuneScape is free to play, but offers optional membership that unlocks more content, including additional skills and quests.
11. Is RuneScape cross-platform PC and Xbox?
RuneScape doesn’t directly support cross-platform play between PC and Xbox, since it is not on Xbox. However, PC and mobile platforms do have cross-platform play with each other.
12. Is RuneScape 3 a pay-to-win game?
While RuneScape 3 has certain elements like Treasure Hunter and the ability to buy bonds which might suggest a pay-to-win aspect, it is generally not considered a strictly pay-to-win game.
13. How many people play RuneScape 3 vs Old School RuneScape?
Old School RuneScape generally has a larger player base, usually ranging between 70,000-130,000 active players per day compared to RuneScape 3’s 20,000-50,000 active players.
RuneScape Related Questions
14. Is it too late to get into RuneScape?
It’s absolutely not too late to start playing RuneScape. Both RS3 and OSRS offer experiences for both new and veteran players.
15. Why are people still playing Old School RuneScape?
The main reason players prefer Old School RuneScape over RuneScape 3 is because of nostalgia. It’s considered a more authentic and challenging RuneScape experience, often attracting players who prefer the older, less streamlined gameplay.
In conclusion, while the idea of RuneScape on Xbox is exciting for fans, the immediate reality is a bit different. While no direct release of the original MMOs is planned, a new, console-specific experience within the franchise is in development. Keep an eye on official announcements and enjoy the game in its available forms!