RuneScape 4 Is Real, But Jagex Promises It Won’t Replace Old School

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By Gaming News
5 October 2026 no comments

Key Takeaways
  • Jagex officially announced RuneScape 4 (RS4), an upcoming standalone MMORPG built from scratch in Unreal Engine.
  • Originally planned as an expansion for RuneScape: Dragonwilds, the project transitioned into an independent MMO following community feedback.
  • RS4 will operate alongside RuneScape 3, Old School RuneScape, and Dragonwilds without replacing existing games or forcing player migration.

What is the new RuneScape 4 MMO?

Jagex officially announced the fourth RuneScape MMORPG during the RuneFest 2026 convention in Birmingham. The developer confirmed the studio is building the game from the ground up in Unreal Engine. This new iteration targets a modern generation of players while retaining the permanent progression principles of the franchise.

The title currently holds the working name RS4. Jagex set the narrative in Gielinor during the Sixth Age, specifically beginning in the Ashenfall region. The timeline takes place several years after the events of RuneScape: Dragonwilds and the destruction of the Dragon Queen Kuldra.

Executive producer Jesse America stated the entire studio will collaborate on this massive project. A conceptual teaser trailer showcased a dragon rider battling a three-headed creature above a verdant valley, observed by a wizard.


The Shift from Expansion to Standalone Release

The origins of RS4 stem directly from player feedback during the development of RuneScape: Dragonwilds. Jagex initially planned to release the content as a survival game expansion titled Shadows of Ashenfall.

Playtesters requested a more traditional MMO framework, asking for persistent servers, high player counts, and player-to-player trading hubs. The studio acknowledged this demand and expanded the project scope into a full, independent game.

This transition significantly shifts the release timeline. Jagex had originally targeted a 2027 launch for the Dragonwilds expansion. The developer clarified that the full RS4 release remains several years away. Meanwhile, the team acknowledged performance issues with the Switch 2 version of RuneScape: Dragonwilds and committed to resolving them.

Also, learn more about the origins and evolution of RuneScape with our Pixel Sundays!


Will RuneScape 4 replace RuneScape 3 and Old School?

Jagex explicitly stated that RS4 will not replace RuneScape 3, Old School RuneScape, or RuneScape: Dragonwilds. The developer intends to run all four titles concurrently, with dedicated teams supporting each individual game.

The studio views RS4 as an additional entry point into the Gielinor universe. Jagex confirmed the ambition is to expand the overall franchise rather than migrate the existing player base.

Cross-progression details remain unconfirmed at this early stage. Jagex withheld specific information regarding platforms, combat systems, and membership structures until next year.


Expanding Gielinor Beyond Video Games

The RuneFest 2026 presentation also confirmed Jagex’s plans to expand the franchise into linear media. The company announced a new animated adaptation of the RuneScape universe.

Jagex partnered with content creator Charlie White, widely known as MoistCr1TiKaL, and Lyrical Media for this production. The series aims to translate the lore and characters of Gielinor for audiences outside the MMO ecosystem.

Jagex maintains a clear focus on community-driven development for all upcoming projects. The studio will reveal more comprehensive details about the RS4 universe and gameplay mechanics next year.

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A video game enthusiast ever since I first got my hands on a Game Boy. Over the years, I've played many different games across various genres, discovering hidden gems and niche titles along the way. I'm also passionate about technology, always up-to-date with the latest news and insight in the PC and Console market. Ready to share and bring you the latest news !

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