Jagex is expanding the RuneScape universe in an exciting new direction with the announcement of RuneScape: Dragonwilds, a cooperative open-world survival game set to enter early access this spring. This fresh take on the iconic franchise brings survival mechanics, exploration, and skill-based progression to a brand-new region within the RuneScape lore.
Explore the Untamed Continent of Ashenfall
Set in the newly discovered continent of Ashenfall, Dragonwilds invites one to four players to team up, master survival skills, build shelters, and battle powerful foes—including an abundance of formidable dragons. Ashenfall is divided into two main regions with five diverse biomes, each teeming with challenges, secrets, and familiar yet twisted creatures. While this isn’t the same continent RuneScape fans have adventured through before, longtime players will recognize iconic locations reimagined, such as a mysterious wizard’s tower or a castle reminiscent of classic RuneScape landmarks.
Creatures Reimagined with Wild Magic
While players will encounter classic RuneScape monsters such as dragons, trolls, rats, and cows, these creatures have been warped by Ashenfall’s untamed magic, fusing them with elements of nature like thorns, vines, and other plant-like mutations. This transformation adds a fresh twist to familiar adversaries, making each encounter unpredictable and engaging.
Classic RuneScape Skills Return with a Survival Twist
At the heart of Dragonwilds is a deep skill system featuring beloved RuneScape activities like woodcutting, cooking, and crafting. These skills don’t just help players survive—they open up new ways to interact with the environment.
During an early preview at the Game Developers Conference (GDC), a showcase revealed exciting mechanics, including:
- Wind runes enabling gliding across vast distances.
- A unique woodcutting ability where players can align trees and send a spectral axe flying through them all at once—a move humorously dubbed “ax-tral projection.”
Release Plans and Upcoming Deep-Dive Reveal
RuneScape: Dragonwilds enters early access on PC this spring, with plans for an expanded launch, including consoles, in 2026. Fans eager to learn more can tune into Jagex’s official Twitch deep-dive reveal on April 15 at 9:00 AM PT for exclusive gameplay insights and developer commentary.
As RuneScape takes its first step into the survival genre, Dragonwilds promises a fresh and immersive experience that blends nostalgic elements with new and exciting mechanics. Stay tuned for more updates as this adventure unfolds!
