How to Play Old School RuneScape (OSRS): A Comprehensive Guide
Old School RuneScape (OSRS) is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) that has captured the hearts of millions of players worldwide. Developed by Jagex, OSRS offers a nostalgic experience for those who played RuneScape in the early 2000s, while also attracting new players with its unique gameplay and community-driven updates. If you’re new to OSRS, this guide will walk you through the basics and help you get started on your adventure.
Getting Started
When you first log into OSRS, you’ll create your character. The game doesn’t have a complex character creation system, so you can jump straight into the action. You’ll start in Tutorial Island, where you’ll learn the fundamentals of the game. The tutorial is designed to teach you how to move, interact with objects, and perform basic actions like attacking and using abilities. Once you’ve completed the tutorial, you’ll be transported to the mainland, where your real adventure begins.
Understanding the Game Mechanics
OSRS is an open-world game, meaning you can explore and interact with the environment freely. The game is skill-based, and your progression is determined by how much time and effort you put into training your skills. There are 23 skills in total, ranging from combat skills like Attack and Strength to non-combat skills like Cooking and Fishing. Each skill has its own benefits, and you can choose to focus on the ones that suit your playstyle.
Combat System
Combat is a core part of OSRS. The game features both PvM (player versus monster) and PvP (player versus player) content. The combat system is turn-based, and your attacks are determined by your stats and the equipment you’re using. As you progress, you can unlock new abilities and weapons to enhance your combat experience.
Quests and Storylines
OSRS has a vast array of quests that provide storylines, rewards, and access to new areas. Quests can range from simple tasks like delivering items to complex puzzles that require careful thinking. Completing quests not only helps you progress but also immerses you in the game’s rich lore.
Building Your Skills
One of the unique aspects of OSRS is its skill-based progression system. You can train your skills by performing specific actions related to each skill. For example, to increase your Fishing level, you need to catch fish, and to increase your Smithing level, you need to craft metal items. As your skills level up, you unlock new recipes, better equipment, and more efficient ways to earn in-game currency.
Making Money
In OSRS, making money (GP) is essential for purchasing equipment, supplies, and other items. There are several ways to make GP, such as selling items you’ve crafted, looting drops from monsters, or participating in the Grand Exchange, which is the game’s player-driven marketplace. You can also join clans or groups to collaborate on money-making activities.
Exploring the World
The world of Gielinor is vast and filled with diverse locations, each with its own unique charm and challenges. From the bustling streets of Varrock to the dark caves of the Wilderness, there’s always something new to explore. Be cautious, though, as certain areas are dangerous, especially the Wilderness, where other players can attack you.
Joining the Community
OSRS has a vibrant and active community. Joining a clan or a group of players can enhance your experience, as you can participate in events, get tips, and collaborate on challenging content. The game also has regular updates, many of which are voted on by the players through the in-game Poll System, ensuring that the community has a say in the game’s development.
Tips for New Players
Start with the Basics: Focus on completing the early quests and training your essential skills like Cooking, Fishing, and Woodcutting.
Experiment with Different Playstyles: OSRS offers a lot of flexibility, so don’t be afraid to try out different skills and activities to find what you enjoy most.
Stay Patient: Progress in OSRS takes time, especially since it’s a skill-based game. Enjoy the journey and don’t rush through the content.
Conclusion
Old School RuneScape is a game that offers something for everyone, whether you’re a casual player or a hardcore grinder. With its rich gameplay, engaging community, and constant updates, OSRS is a game that you can play for hours on end without getting bored. So, what are you waiting for? Create your account, log in, and start your adventure in Gielinor today!