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Which RuneScape is Most Played?

The answer is clear: Old School RuneScape (OSRS) is currently the most played version of the iconic MMORPG. While both RuneScape 3 (RS3) and OSRS maintain dedicated communities, OSRS consistently boasts a significantly larger player base. This popularity is evident in average concurrent player counts, and in the overall buzz surrounding the game within the broader gaming community. Although the franchise as a whole hit its highest-ever player membership peak in 2019 with over 1.1 million paying subscribers, the majority of that engagement is focused on OSRS.

The Rise of Old School RuneScape

Originally, RuneScape was the dominant version, having launched in its original form way back in 2001. However, over the years, as the game evolved and underwent significant changes, a segment of the player base yearned for the simplicity and classic gameplay of the earlier era. This led to the creation of Old School RuneScape in 2013. This version deliberately rolled back the game to its 2007 state, offering a nostalgic experience that resonated with veteran players and drew in new ones who preferred a more traditional MMORPG style.

Player Numbers: OSRS vs. RS3

The disparity in player numbers is significant. While RS3 manages a solid average of around 20,000 to 50,000 concurrent players, OSRS frequently sees between 70,000 and 130,000. These figures clearly illustrate the popularity gap between the two versions. While there are claims of bots and real-world trading (RWT) inflating the player counts on OSRS, even factoring these into account, the core player base for OSRS is markedly larger. The highest player count ever recorded for OSRS was 157,000 concurrent users, further illustrating the game’s strong following.

Why is OSRS More Popular?

Several factors contribute to OSRS’s popularity.

Nostalgia: The classic feel and mechanics of OSRS appeal to players who have fond memories of the original game.
Gameplay Simplicity: OSRS features a more straightforward combat system and generally longer, more challenging grinds, which resonates with players who enjoy that type of experience. This “harder” feel is in contrast to the more modernized and often faster-paced mechanics of RS3.
Active PvP: The PvP community in OSRS is known to be much more active, which provides an additional draw for many players.
Mobile Accessibility: The release of a mobile version in 2018 significantly broadened OSRS’s reach and allowed players to engage with the game on the go, boosting its accessibility and overall player base.
Community Driven Development: OSRS involves its community directly with polls and community driven changes to the game, building more trust and community engagement.

The Enduring Appeal of RuneScape 3

While OSRS dominates in player count, RS3 continues to have a dedicated following as well. It is the original RuneScape that has been running since the initial release of the game in 2001 and it has evolved significantly over the years. RS3 is constantly updating and has introduced a host of modern features.

Modern Gameplay and Constant Updates

Evolving Combat System: The combat in RS3 is more complex, with a diverse range of abilities and strategies, offering a different challenge for players who prefer a more intricate system.
Faster Progression: Generally, the grind in RS3 is less arduous, with streamlined methods to accomplish tasks like mining and smithing, leading to a faster sense of progression for some.
Engaging Story Content: RS3 also often pushes updates focused on story and new gameplay mechanics.

Why Some Players Prefer RS3

Modern Convenience: Players that do not want the long grinds or the slower gameplay of OSRS may prefer the more modern feel of RS3.
Visual Upgrades: With consistent visual updates, RS3 has a more modern look and can appeal to those who value modern graphics.
Challenging Boss Fights: RS3 has a reputation for difficult and demanding boss fights, such as Telos (High Enrage), Nex: Angel of Death, and Solak, offering a different type of challenge than OSRS does.

Conclusion: Both Thriving, OSRS Dominates

In summary, while both versions of RuneScape remain popular in 2023 and beyond, Old School RuneScape has the larger and more active player base. OSRS’s blend of nostalgia, straightforward gameplay, and accessibility makes it a highly successful MMORPG even in the modern gaming landscape. RuneScape 3 however, is a solid modern offering that is also worth consideration, and which has not stopped attracting veteran players who enjoy the modernized gameplay. Both versions of the game provide unique experiences, so deciding which version to play depends on what you are looking for in an MMORPG.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about RuneScape and its two main versions:

1. What is the Difference Between OSRS and RS3?

OSRS is a version of RuneScape that is based on the 2007 version of the game. It has a more classic, simple gameplay with a slow grind and longer goals. RS3 is the original RuneScape that has evolved continuously since 2001, and includes modern features and more complex gameplay mechanics.

2. Is it Too Late to Start Playing RuneScape?

Absolutely not! It is never too late to start playing RuneScape. Both games have a wealth of content for new players and active communities.

3. Which Game is More “Grindy”?

OSRS is generally considered the more grindy of the two. The grind is one of the reasons why many players enjoy it. RS3 has streamlined many aspects to make grinding less time-consuming.

4. Is RuneScape Pay-to-Win?

While RS3 has some elements like Treasure Hunter and bonds that can give players an advantage, most players do not consider it to be a pay-to-win game. OSRS generally has less of a pay-to-win feel due to having less microtransactions.

5. Is Buying Gold Banned?

Yes, buying gold in either OSRS or RS3 is against Jagex’s rules and can result in a ban. While their detection methods primarily focus on the sellers, buyers also face a risk.

6. Can You Play RuneScape for Free?

Yes, both OSRS and RS3 can be played for free, with limitations. A paid membership unlocks additional content, including extra skills, quests, and access to more areas of the game world.

7. Why Do People Play OSRS?

Players often choose OSRS for nostalgia, the slower-paced gameplay, a more active PvP community, and because they genuinely enjoy the simple yet engaging style.

8. Why Do People Play RS3?

Players often choose RS3 for its modern features, its evolving combat system, the constant updates and new content and the fact that it is less time-consuming to level in than OSRS.

9. What is the Hardest Boss in RuneScape?

In RS3, Telos at high enrage is widely considered the most difficult boss encounter. OSRS does not have as many very difficult bosses as RS3.

10. Which RuneScape has a More Active PvP Community?

Old School RuneScape has a much more active PvP community than RS3.

11. Which RuneScape is Better?

There is no definitive answer, as it depends on personal preference. OSRS appeals to those who like classic gameplay and nostalgia, while RS3 attracts players who prefer modern mechanics and faster progression.

12. How Old is RuneScape?

The first public version of RuneScape was released in January 2001. The franchise has been going for over two decades.

13. What is the most Famous Player in RuneScape?

Zezima is considered one of the most famous players in RuneScape history, known for being the first to achieve level 99 in Slayer and reaching a total level of 2079.

14. Is RS3 Still Popular in 2023?

Yes, RS3 is still popular in 2023, with many veteran players returning to the game and enjoying the numerous updates and expansions.

15. What is “Real World Trading” (RWT)?

Real World Trading (RWT) is when players sell in-game gold or items for real money, which is against the game rules and is often associated with botting. RWT is more prominent on OSRS.

Which RuneScape is most played?