*Image Credit: Jagex, RuneScape 3 (RS3) and Old School RuneScape (OSRS)*

RuneScape’s success as a leading MMORPG comes from its dual offerings: Old School RuneScape (OSRS—an older version of the game brought back with new updates) and RuneScape 3 (RS3—the original version of the game updated through today). Both share the same world of Gielinor but have evolved into two entirely different games and communities. This guide breaks down the main differences to help you choose which version to play regardless of whether you’re a returning player or completely new.

Game Mechanics and Combat Systems

OSRS: Simple and Straightforward

Old School RuneScape relies on a traditional combat system known as “tick-based” combat. Here, each action takes place in 0.6-second intervals, or "ticks." This combat style is about skill over stats, although timing and manual input often determine success. Each action, from using a special attack to eating food and healing, requires precise timing to execute optimally.

Pros of OSRS Combat:

Skill-based: Success often depends on timing and strategizing.
Classic experience: Nostalgic for older players who remember pre-2013 RuneScape.
Consistency: Fewer updates ensure stability for long-time players.

Cons of OSRS Combat:

Slow progression: Leveling can feel grind-heavy and time-consuming.
Limited combat variety: No modern abilities or diversity in attack styles.

RS3: Attempt at Modernity

RuneScape 3 introduced the Evolution of Combat (EoC) system which introduced combat with abilities (like WoW), which was very controversial at the time. Players can activate abilities, chain attacks, and create combinations, making combat feel faster and more akin to modern RPGs. RS3 also offers a "Legacy Mode," letting players opt for the classic, tick-based combat if preferred.

Pros of RS3 Combat:

Variety in playstyles: EoC offers a wide array of combat styles, weapons, and abilities.
Faster-paced and modern: Action and abilities give a dynamic edge.
Optional Legacy Mode: Allows a classic combat experience for those who prefer it.

Cons of RS3 Combat:

Steeper learning curve: EoC takes time to master and isn’t for everyone.
Divisive update: Many longtime players found EoC alienating and moved to OSRS when it launched.

Graphics and Aesthetics

*Image Credit: Jagex, RuneScape 3 (RS3)*

OSRS’s visual style is firmly rooted in early 2000s graphics. Many players find its pixelated, low-resolution graphics charming, and now if you play with the Runelite client you can opt into High Detail graphics that make it look a lot more modern than before while still keeping its original charm.

OSRS: A Nostalgic Charm

Pros of OSRS Graphics:

Nostalgia factor: Retro visuals appeal to returning players.
Low system requirements: Runs smoothly on almost any device, including mobile.

Cons of OSRS Graphics:

Outdated visuals: Jarring for players used to modern graphics.
Limited animations: Lacks the fluidity of newer MMORPGs (again Runelite can somewhat fix this).

RS3: Visually Updated

In RS3, Jagex has implemented frequent graphical overhauls, creating a much richer visual experience. Modern RS3 environments are more detailed, with refined lighting effects, smoother character models, and more immersive visuals.

Pros of RS3 Graphics:

Visually appealing: High-resolution textures, detailed models, and atmospheric lighting.
World immersion: Graphical updates add depth and realism to Gielinor.

Cons of RS3 Graphics:

Higher system requirements: Demands more from your hardware.
Possible disconnect for long-time fans: Some players prefer the retro look.

Economy and Microtransactions

*Image Credit: Jagex, Old School RuneScape (OSRS) Grand Exchange*

OSRS: Earn It All

Old School RuneScape emphasizes a self-sufficient, player-driven economy. While OSRS includes microtransactions through Bonds (which can be bought for real money and sold for in-game currency), it lacks the extensive monetization seen in RS3. For players who prefer to earn rewards rather than purchase them, OSRS’s limited microtransactions foster a fairer economy.

Pros of OSRS Economy:

Player-driven market: Fewer items and inflation keep the economy balanced.
Minimal microtransactions: Less “pay-to-win” feel than in RS3.

Cons of OSRS Economy:

Bonds still influence the economy: Real-money trading impacts high-tier items.
Limited economic tools: Fewer mechanics for players who enjoy advanced trading.

RS3: Convenience at a Cost

RS3’s economy is more complex and includes microtransactions like Treasure Hunter Keys and Solomon’s General Store, allowing players to purchase experience boosts, cosmetics, and more. While these conveniences appeal to some, others feel they disrupt game balance, creating a “pay-to-win” environment.

Pros of RS3 Economy:

Convenient boosts: Microtransactions can speed up leveling.
Frequent updates to economy: New items and events introduce unique market opportunities.

Cons of RS3 Economy:

Microtransactions impact gameplay: Some players may feel pressured to spend.
Perceived imbalance: Real-money boosts affect the competitive landscape.

PvP (Player vs. Player) Content (aka Pking)

*Image Credit: Jagex, Old School RuneScape (OSRS) Pking/PvP*

OSRS: High-Risk, High-Reward PvP in the Wilderness

OSRS is known for its intense PvP, or pking (player-killing), particularly in the Wilderness, where players can attack each other and loot defeated opponents. OSRS also includes Bounty Hunter for structured PvP and Deadman Mode events, which are high-stakes PvP tournaments.

Pros of OSRS PvP:

Thrilling risk and reward: Wilderness PvP is high-stakes and intense.
Active PvP community: OSRS has a dedicated player base for PvP.
Skill-based: PvP requires strategic skill switching, timing, and positioning rather than abilities.

Cons of OSRS PvP:

High barrier to entry: The PvP scene can be difficult for newcomers.
Strictly limited areas: PvP mostly occurs in the Wilderness.

RS3: Not Really a Thing

If you are looking for a game with PvP then this is not it. RS3’s PvP is less focused on the Wilderness but offers PvP mini-games like Castle Wars, Soul Wars, and Clan Wars, although these minigames are mostly dead at this point.

Pros of RS3 PvP:

Casual-friendly: PvP minigames can be fun without high stakes.
Structured environments: Organized PvP options add variety.

Cons of RS3 PvP:

Lower activity in Wilderness: PvP in RS3’s Wilderness is less popular (almost non-existent)
Fewer high-stakes options: Lacks OSRS’s intense Wilderness experience.

Player Community and Game Culture

OSRS: Community-Driven Content

OSRS is known for its community-led content updates. Jagex polls players on potential updates, requiring a 75% approval rate for implementation. This democratic process allows the community to shape the game’s future, keeping content aligned with player interests.

Pros of OSRS Community:

Direct influence on content: Players have a say in updates.
Strong nostalgic community: Passionate about preserving the classic experience.

Cons of OSRS Community:

Slower content release: Polling delays updates.
Older player base: The retro feel may attract fewer new players.

RS3: Evolving World

RS3’s development is guided by Jagex with little input from players, which admittedly means faster updates and sometimes more ambitious projects. Though players can provide feedback, decisions ultimately rest with the developers, leading to more frequent and often larger updates.

Pros of RS3 Community:

Frequent updates: New content keeps the game feeling new.
Broader appeal: Modern gameplay attracts a more diverse demographic.

Cons of RS3 Community:

Less player influence: Jagex has the final say, sometimes alienating players.
Inconsistent experience: The game’s rapid evolution may be divisive.

Skill System and Leveling

Image Credit: Jagex, Old School RuneScape (OSRS) Farming

OSRS: Slow and Steady

OSRS’s leveling is grind-heavy, with significant effort required to progress. Each level feels hard-earned, appealing to players who value a challenging grind and steady satisfaction from milestones.

Pros of OSRS Leveling:

Rewarding milestones: Every level is an achievement.
Old-school skills: Focuses on classic skills without fast-tracking progression.

Cons of OSRS Leveling:

Slow progression: Skills take significantly longer to max out.
Limited skill variety: Fewer skills compared to RS3.

RS3: Fast-Paced Progression

RS3’s skill system is faster, with access to a lot of new skills (Summoning, Necromancy, Invention and more), advanced training methods alongside more afk options, and microtransactions. Skills like Invention and Archaeology bring unique mechanics, providing diverse paths for progression.

Pros of RS3 Leveling:

Faster progression: Easier to level up for casual players.
Variety in skills: Newer skills like Invention add some depth.

Cons of RS3 Leveling:

May feel less rewarding: Faster leveling can feel less satisfying (although many skills go up to 120 instead of 99 now).
Microtransaction influence: Experience boosts can detract from traditional grinding and the overall experience of progression.

Which Version Should You Play?

*Image Credit: Jagex, RuneScape (3) Archaeology*

As you can see, choosing between OSRS and RS3 depends on your preferences for gameplay, graphics, and how you progress. If you’re drawn to nostalgia, community-driven updates, and a challenging experience with one of the biggest grinds (and biggest communities) in gaming, OSRS might feel like home. Its simplicity and reliance on player feedback offer a grounded experience that stays true to its roots.

On the other hand, if you prefer modern graphics, a faster-paced leveling system, and a range of combat abilities, RS3 might suit you better. While this community isn’t as large as OSRS, it is in a relatively healthy place and arguably closer-knit.

Each game has unique strengths and weaknesses, and the best way to decide, honestly, is to try both versions. Both OSRS and RS3 offer rich worlds and passionate communities with free-to-play as an option. Give ‘em both a shot and see which one you like more!

Note: If you pay for membership you can switch between both games at any time, although progress on one game does not carry over to the other.