The legendary online game RuneScape is celebrating a monumental milestone in 2026: its 25th anniversary. To mark the occasion, its developer, Jagex, has announced RS25, a transformative and ambitious programme that represents the largest annual investment in the franchise's history. This initiative promises a renewed focus on player experience, game integrity, and expansive new content across the RuneScape universe.
A New Era of Integrity and Player-First Design
At the heart of the RS25 strategy is a profound commitment to game integrity and respect for players. In a significant move following a community vote, Jagex will remove the Treasure Hunter microtransaction system from RuneScape in 2026. This decision underscores a shift towards player-first design and greater transparency.
The studio is embarking on a comprehensive rejuvenation of the flagship game. This includes a long-requested Player Avatar refresh, meaningful visual upgrades, and major improvements to player support systems. Jagex CEO Jon Bellamy stated that RS25 is a statement of the franchise's future, focused on building foundations for its next great era and ensuring it continues to connect millions of players for decades to come.
Massive Content Roadmaps and Live Events
Players can expect an unprecedented slate of new content and live experiences. Old School RuneScape has unveiled its most ambitious roadmap ever for 2026, which will introduce a new Raid, a new League, and a new Grandmaster quest.
The celebration will also extend into the real world with major events. RuneFest 2026 is set for October 3-4 at the Birmingham NEC, doubling in size to host 6,000 fans. In a first for the studio, Jagex will host Deadman All-Stars Live at the Rosemont Theatre in Chicago on June 20, bringing a high-stakes competitive event to the United States. Furthermore, an exclusive creator LAN event for Old School RuneScape is planned for later in the year.
Franchise Expansion and Corporate Evolution
The RS25 programme also highlights the growth of the RuneScape franchise beyond its core titles. RuneScape: Dragonwilds, which has already surpassed 1 million sales in early access, has a full year of expansions planned ahead of its global launch, including releases on new platforms.
Jagex is reinforcing its commitment to the next generation of developers through the RS25: Future Talent Pathway, a mentorship programme launched in partnership with Into Games. Reflecting its deep connection to its flagship title, the studio has also revealed a refreshed corporate identity that aligns it more closely with the RuneScape franchise.
UK Creative Industries Minister Ian Murray commended Jagex for its quarter-century of innovation, highlighting the studio's role in demonstrating how British game development can produce iconic international hits. With record investment and a clear, player-centric vision, RS25 sets the stage for the next chapter of one of gaming's most enduring and beloved worlds.
