RuneScape vs OSRS Compared

Old School RuneScape (OSRS) and RuneScape 3 (RS3) are two distinct but related game versions accessible with a single account. The choice between OSRS and RS3 boils down to personal preference in gameplay style, and new or returning players can act on these points before deciding to try either.

OSRS and RS3 are separate online games, not a single progression path. Your character and progress in each is independent.

OSRS recaptures RuneScape as it existed in August 2007, restored from a backup of the game at that time.

Since its launch in February 2013, OSRS has introduced its own new quests and seasonal events. Jagex's commitment to OSRS development rests on polling more than any other independent factor: development depends extensively on player polls.

Players can access Old School RuneScape and the bigger graphically robust RuneScape 3 with a single account, but choose a game based on playstyle, not hardware.

For players who want the original experience, OSRS offers slower, more simple gameplay with older, Basic graphics systems and with armor, weapons, prayer-based combat from the original game, rather than a modern feature set. There may be pricing differences between the two versions.

Choosing between Old School RuneScape and RuneScape 3 won't be just a term in new game players' vocabulary: it defines how they want to experience RuneScape, from the original city of Varrock to the lands added later in RS3. They're actually two unique games:

Old School RuneScape is the 2007-style version restored by Jagex from a 2007 backup, with slower, spread out play. RuneScape 3 is the modern game, with advanced presentation and monetization systems not covered under OSRS.

Start with OSRS where the old-school Varrock feeling and original skill system is paramount. Jump to RS3 for faster modern development by Jagex without an influence over it from the OSRS playerbase.