RuneScape 4 Officially Revealed by Jagex

RuneFest, Jagex’s annual event for RuneScape, is underway in Birmingham, where the studio revealed its next major project: RuneScape 4. The title began as an expansion for RuneScape: Dragonwilds called Shadows of Ashenfall, but developers shifted direction after player feedback highlighted demand for social mechanics. The team aimed to integrate persistent servers, high player counts, and player-to-player trading, aligning the game more closely with Jagex’s traditional MMO design. This creative pivot led to the realization that the project warranted its own standalone game.

Jagex confirmed RuneScape 4 will be built using Unreal Engine, marking a technical departure from the studio’s previous titles. Early footage showcased dragons as a central theme, with players able to both fight and ride them. The development team emphasized that the project is a studio-wide effort, involving all of Jagex’s divisions rather than a single specialized group. This collaborative approach underscores the significance of the new MMO within the company’s broader strategy.

The announcement leaves the future of Jagex’s existing games—RuneScape (RuneScape 3), Old School RuneScape, and RuneScape: Dragonwilds—unconfirmed. RuneScape 4 is described as the studio’s fourth pillar, suggesting ongoing support for the other titles. However, industry observers anticipate potential shifts in player migration as the new MMO evolves, though no official details have been provided about its release timeline or platforms.

RuneScape 4 remains in very early development, with no confirmed release window, platforms, or gameplay mechanics disclosed. The studio has not addressed whether the new MMO will replace or coexist with existing RuneScape titles. For now, players are left with early visuals and the promise of a fresh experience built on Unreal Engine, with further details expected in the coming months.