Is OSRS Worth Playing in 2025?
Image Credits: Jagex, Old School RuneScape (OSRS)
Old School RuneScape (OSRS) is a game that keeps surprising people. It’s one of the only MMOs that has grown in popularity year after year. In fact, it’s currently the second most popular MMO, right behind World of Warcraft. But why? Let’s break down what makes this game so unique and why it continues to thrive, even in 2025.
A Game Unlike Any Other
If you’ve played games like World of Warcraft or Final Fantasy 14, OSRS might seem strange at first. The graphics are simple, the gameplay is point-and-click, and the progression system feels completely different. Most MMOs guide you with a main questline, but OSRS leaves you to figure things out on your own.
This might seem frustrating at first, but it’s also part of the game’s charm. OSRS is a sandbox MMO where you set your own goals. Do you want to fight bosses, max out skills, or earn lots of gold? You get to decide. This freedom is what draws many players in and keeps them hooked.
Nostalgia Isn’t the Whole Story
Some people think OSRS is only popular because of nostalgia, but that’s not the case. Sure, the game started as a version of RuneScape from 2007, but it has grown far beyond that. Many players today didn’t even play RuneScape back then. They’re new to the game and love it for what it is now.
Long-Term Progress That Matters
Unlike many other MMOs, OSRS doesn’t throw away your progress when new content comes out. In games like World of Warcraft, your gear and achievements often become useless when the next expansion drops. But in OSRS, old items like the Abyssal Whip and Barrows Armor are still useful today.
This means you can take a break from the game, come back years later, and pick up right where you left off. Players love knowing their time and effort won’t be wasted.
Fun Temporary Game Modes
Every so often, OSRS introduces special game modes like Leagues and Deadman Mode. These are temporary events with faster leveling, unique rewards, and different rules. They’re a fun way to mix things up and bring old and new players together.
For example, the most recent League reached over 200,000 players at the same time, setting a new record. These events also give content creators on YouTube and Twitch plenty to talk about which helps the game stay popular.
A Friendly Community and Creative Tools
OSRS has one of the best gaming communities out there. Content creators on YouTube and Twitch produce videos that attract millions of views, even from people who aren’t actively playing. This keeps the game in the spotlight and encourages players to return.
On top of that, tools like RuneLite, a third-party client, have made the game more accessible. RuneLite adds helpful features like quest guides, timers, and custom overlays. While some argue it makes the game too easy, it’s clear that many players enjoy the convenience.
We have to also mention here that most updates need to pass a vote, requiring 70% of player support in polls to pass. While this can be a pain sometimes with votes on content not quite making it through, it definitely does a good job at guaranteeing that Jagex is working on and implementing only things that the community as a majority wants in the game.
A Bright Future
OSRS is absolutely thriving. With consistent updates and exciting plans for the future, players know the game isn’t going anywhere. New features like HD graphics on RuneLite, community-driven servers, and potential new skills are all on the horizon.
While many MMOs feel like cash grabs or are riddled with pay-to-win mechanics, OSRS stands out. It’s a game where your progress feels meaningful, and the developers genuinely care about the community.
Why Play OSRS?
At its core, OSRS is a game where you set your own goals and enjoying the journey. It’s simple yet deep, nostalgic yet modern, and accessible yet challenging. Whether you’re a veteran player or someone trying it for the first time, OSRS offers something special that no other MMO can match.
If you’ve been curious about the game, now might be the perfect time to give it a shot. With its growing community and exciting updates, OSRS shows no signs of slowing down.
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