Summary (tl;dr)

Jagex, the developer behind the popular RuneScape massively multiplayer online (MMO) franchise, has announced a new, fourth RuneScape MMO, tentatively titled "RuneScape 4" or "RS4", currently in development with Unreal Engine. This news was delivered alongside the reveal of "RuneScape Reignited," a new "fresh-start" character type for the existing RuneScape game, both unveiled at their annual RuneFest convention.

Essential Background

RuneScape is a long-standing fantasy MMORPG that has captivated players for over two decades. The franchise currently maintains two primary versions: the continuously updated "RuneScape" (often referred to as RuneScape 3) and "Old School RuneScape," a highly popular iteration based on a 2007 build of the game. Additionally, Jagex released "RuneScape: Dragonwilds," a survival spin-off, expanding the universe in recent years.

The Full Story

At RuneFest 2026, Jagex made a dual announcement that has ignited significant buzz within the gaming community. The company officially revealed that a brand-new, fourth RuneScape MMO, codenamed "RS4," is in early development. This upcoming title, built using Unreal Engine, initially began as an expansion for "RuneScape: Dragonwilds" but evolved into a full standalone game aimed at attracting a new generation of players with modern visuals and design, while promising to maintain the core "RuneScape" spirit.

Simultaneously, Jagex unveiled "RuneScape Reignited," a permanent new character type within the existing RuneScape game, set to launch on December 2, 2026. This "fresh-start" mode aims to revitalize the game by introducing a separate economy, removing controversial "pay-to-progress" features like Treasure Hunter, and providing a remastered player journey with an Adventure Guide and official plugin support. The announcements, made in close succession, indicate Jagex's strategy to expand the franchise with a new flagship title while also addressing long-standing community feedback for its current main game.

Why It Matters

The announcement of "RuneScape 4" signifies a major forward-looking step for the franchise, leveraging modern game development tools (Unreal Engine) to potentially broaden its appeal and competitive standing in the MMORPG market. This commitment to a new core game suggests Jagex is positioning RuneScape for sustained growth and innovation.

Concurrently, "RuneScape Reignited" addresses years of player concerns regarding game integrity, monetization, and new player experience in the existing RuneScape. By offering a clean slate, a fresh economy, and a focus on core gameplay, Jagex aims to draw back lapsed veterans and provide a more accessible entry point for newcomers, fostering a more engaging and community-driven experience. The combined announcements highlight Jagex's dual strategy of expanding the RuneScape universe with new technology while also rejuvenating its beloved existing titles, potentially reshaping the future landscape for one of gaming's longest-running MMOs.

Geographic Location

• NEC, Birmingham, England, United Kingdom (RuneFest 2026 convention where announcements were made)