This past weekend, Jagex hosted the much-anticipated RuneFest 2025, a vibrant celebration of all things RuneScape. After a hiatus due to the pandemic, the event was a triumphant return, showcasing a plethora of exciting updates and future plans for both RuneScape and Old School RuneScape as we sail into 2026.
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Setting Sail with the New Sailing Skill
One of the most thrilling announcements was the introduction of the Sailing skill in Old School RuneScape. Players were given a sneak peek at this new feature, which allows them to embark on nautical adventures across the vast seas of Gielinor. Starting on a humble raft, players will level up their sailing prowess, eventually commanding crews and engaging in epic naval battles against krakens, leviathans, and even cutthroat pirates. This is not just a skill; it’s a whole new way to experience the game!
The Long-Awaited HD Mode
In addition to sailing, the long-anticipated HD Mode for Old School RuneScape is finally on the horizon. Set to launch later this year, this optional mode will revamp the classic MMO with enhanced graphics while preserving its iconic visual identity. Players can look forward to experiencing Old School RuneScape in a stunning new light, optimized for a range of devices.
New Challenges Await: Bosses and Quests
For the seasoned adventurers, Jagex has unveiled two formidable new bosses: Yama, the Master of Pacts, and the Doom of Mokhaiotl. These challenges will be available in the coming months, adding fresh excitement to the endgame content. Furthermore, the summer will bring the highly anticipated Varlamore: The Final Dawn, introducing new quests and areas to explore, including Auburnvale, Custodia Pass, and the Tlati Rainforest.
Project Zanaris: A New Era of Customization
In a groundbreaking move, Jagex announced the opening of sign-ups for Project Zanaris. This innovative community world program allows players to customize their own game worlds, set their own rules, and create unique gameplay experiences. The first wave of closed playtests is set to begin in April, and the excitement is palpable!
Expanding the Universe: RuneScape Leagues and Havenhythe
For the main RuneScape game, the beloved Leagues mode is making its debut. This limited-time game mode will allow players to start anew, experiencing accelerated XP and rare drop rates while completing tasks to unlock powerful new items.
Additionally, the upcoming Havenhythe expansion, set to launch in early 2026, promises to introduce a new area filled with quests, bosses, and skilling activities. Players will delve into the mysteries of this isolated land, facing new threats and uncovering ancient secrets.
Celebrating the Community: Golden Gnomes Awards
The Golden Gnomes Awards made a triumphant return, honoring the incredible contributions of the RuneScape community. Notably, Crystal and SoloMission were celebrated as the RuneScape Creators’ Choice and Old School RuneScape Creators’ Choice winners, respectively, highlighting the vibrant creativity within the community.
A Musical Collaboration: Beatstar x Old School RuneScape
In an exciting partnership, Jagex collaborated with Beatstar to feature “Amascut’s Promise (Remix)” in the popular mobile rhythm game. This marks a significant milestone as the first video game soundtrack to be included as a playable track in Beatstar, allowing players to enjoy a beloved Old School RuneScape tune in a fresh and engaging way.
Event Details: RuneFest 2025
RuneFest 2025 was the tenth RuneScape convention, taking place at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham, United Kingdom, on 1 and 2 March 2025. Originally scheduled for 7 and 8 September 2024 as part of the Insomnia Gaming Festival, the event was rescheduled due to unforeseen circumstances, with tickets transferring to the new dates.
Tickets
- Early Bird: £150 plus booking fee (first 500 tickets)
- Standard: £175 plus booking fee
Additional Ticket Information
An additional batch of 1,000 tickets was planned for release on 15 May, although this sale was postponed due to unforeseen circumstances.
Main Event Schedule
The main event kicked off at 10:30 AM on 1 March with the “Welcome to RuneFest” presentation from Mod Mark. The first day featured keynotes for both RuneScape and Old School RuneScape, while the second day focused on panels led by Jagex employees and community stalls in the main hall.
Goodie Bag
Attendees received a special goodie bag that included:
- A backpack featuring the RuneFest logo
- An information booklet
- A black notebook
- A RuneFest marker pen
- A Penguin Hunt card
- A Wise Old Man paper model crafting kit
- A set of 4 RuneFest trading cards
Each attendee was also given a wristband for entry into the venue, with VIP wristbands available for content creators and separate wristbands for staff.
Additional Features
As with previous RuneFests, attendees enjoyed a variety of activities, including:
- Main Stage reveals
- Playtesting of the latest content
- A dedicated LAN area with a 99 party
- Cosplay contests
- Opportunities to meet community members, Jagex Moderators, and creators
- Real-world challenges to earn skill chips
- Entertainment and a party atmosphere
- Livestreams for those unable to attend in person
- RuneFest merchandise
This year also introduced a Community Zone, tournaments, a camping area, and new RuneScape products, including the RuneScape Kingdoms tabletop game and board game.
As we look ahead, the announcements from RuneFest 2025 signal an exhilarating year for both RuneScape and Old School RuneScape. With new content, gameplay innovations, and a strong focus on community engagement, the future is bright for adventurers in the world of Gielinor. Stay tuned for more updates as these developments unfold!