Long-time fans of RuneScape, prepare for a wild twist! Jagex, the veteran studio behind the iconic massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG), has just unveiled its newest project: RuneScape: Dragonwilds. This isn’t your typical questing and skilling in Gielinor; instead, players are thrust into a brand-new, untamed continent called Ashenfall in a thrilling open-world survival crafting game. The announcement, made on March 31, 2025, has sent ripples of excitement and a healthy dose of disbelief through the gaming community. Could this be the fresh direction the RuneScape franchise needs, or will it be a dragon too far?
For over two decades, RuneScape has captivated millions with its vast world, intricate lore, and engaging gameplay. Now, Jagex aims to conquer a different genre, tapping into the popular survival crafting trend with a distinctly RuneScape flavor. RuneScape: Dragonwilds promises a cooperative experience for 1-4 players, challenging them to gather resources, construct shelters, master skills, and ultimately confront the awakened dragons, including a formidable Dragon Queen, that threaten the land of Ashenfall.
Ashenfall Beckons: A Land Forged by Magic and Dragons
Forget the familiar landscapes of Lumbridge or Falador. Dragonwilds transports players to Ashenfall, a continent shrouded in mystery and brimming with raw, untamed magic. This never-before-seen land within the RuneScape universe is described as a hand-crafted landscape ravaged by Anima, a wild and transformative magical energy. This Anima-rich environment will allow players to wield incredible power, such as conjuring spectral axes to instantly fell entire rows of trees or manipulating nature’s energy to repair damaged armor. Imagine the possibilities! Exploding ore veins with a mere snap of your fingers – this isn’t your grandpa’s mining skill.
The developers have teased diverse biomes within Ashenfall, hinting at a visually stunning and varied world to explore. While Ashenfall is a new location, eagle-eyed fans might spot familiar architectural styles and creature types, albeit with a wild, Anima-infused twist. Expect to encounter mutated versions of classic RuneScape creatures, perhaps cows fused with thorny vines or trolls exhibiting strange, plant-like growths. This blend of the familiar and the new could offer a comforting sense of nostalgia while keeping the survival experience fresh and unpredictable.
Survival with a RuneScape Twist: Familiar Skills, New Challenges
At its core, RuneScape: Dragonwilds embraces the fundamental mechanics of the survival crafting genre. Players will need to scavenge for resources, craft essential tools and equipment, build bases to protect themselves from the elements and hostile creatures, and manage their needs like hunger and stamina. However, Jagex is weaving in iconic RuneScape elements to create a unique experience.
The announcement explicitly mentions the return of classic RuneScape skills like woodcutting and cooking, reimagined within the survival context. Imagine using your woodcutting prowess to not just gather logs, but to strategically clear areas for building or create defensive structures. Cooking might involve preparing meals from foraged ingredients and hunted creatures, offering buffs and advantages for survival. The progression system will allow players to unlock new spells, crafting recipes, and abilities, offering a sense of growth and mastery as they delve deeper into the mysteries of Ashenfall.
Dragons are the New Boss: Prepare for Epic Encounters
The central threat in Dragonwilds is, unsurprisingly, dragons. The forgotten continent of Ashenfall has seen these majestic and powerful creatures awaken, and players will find themselves constantly under the looming shadow of their reign. The ultimate goal? To slay the Dragon Queen. This monumental task can be undertaken solo or with up to three friends in cooperative gameplay. Teamwork and strategic planning will likely be crucial to overcome the challenges posed by these formidable foes.
The teaser trailer showcased glimpses of intense combat encounters, hinting at a blend of action and strategic use of skills and crafted gear. Will we see familiar combat styles from RuneScape adapted for this new format? Will magic play a significant role in dragon slaying? Jagex promises legendary RuneScape creatures alongside entirely new foes like the fearsome Garou, suggesting a diverse and dangerous bestiary to contend with.
Powered by Unreal Engine 5: A Visual Leap for RuneScape
One of the most striking aspects of the announcement is the revelation that RuneScape: Dragonwilds is being built using Unreal Engine 5. This represents a significant technological leap for the franchise, promising stunning visuals, detailed environments, and fluid animations. The “hand-crafted landscape” of Ashenfall is expected to be a visual treat, drawing players into its magical and dangerous world. This graphical fidelity could attract a new audience while impressing long-time fans accustomed to RuneScape’s more stylized aesthetic.
Early Access and the Road Ahead
Jagex has announced that RuneScape: Dragonwilds will launch into Early Access on PC in Spring 2025. This allows players to experience the game in its development stages, provide feedback, and help shape its future. While no specific date has been given for the Early Access launch, the announcement encourages players to wishlist the game on Steam to stay updated.
For those eager to see the game in action, Jagex has scheduled a deep-dive livestream on Twitch for April 15th at 5:00 PM BST (9:00 AM PT). This event will offer a first look at gameplay, provide more details about the game’s features, and give players a chance to ask questions to the development team. Jagex also plans to release more news and updates in the coming weeks and months, keeping the community engaged as the Early Access launch approaches. The developers have expressed that community feedback has been central to the development of Dragonwilds, suggesting a collaborative approach to shaping the game.
Will Dragonwilds Breathe New Fire into the Franchise?
The announcement of RuneScape: Dragonwilds marks a bold new direction for Jagex and the RuneScape franchise. By venturing into the popular survival crafting genre with a cooperative focus and a fresh setting within the beloved RuneScape universe, Jagex aims to attract both veteran players and newcomers alike. The promise of stunning visuals powered by Unreal Engine 5 and the integration of familiar skills with new magical abilities create a compelling premise.
However, the success of Dragonwilds will depend on its ability to capture the essence of RuneScape while delivering a satisfying and engaging survival crafting experience. Can Jagex strike the right balance between nostalgia and innovation? Will the dragon-slaying gameplay be as epic as it sounds? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: the world of RuneScape is about to get a whole lot wilder, and players are eagerly awaiting the chance to face the dragons of Ashenfall.
Add Comment