Runescape used to be one of my favorite games of all time. Now, it is turning into Ruinedscape. Ever since Andrew Gower left, the game has gotten progressively worse. Of course, not everyone will agree with me, but this is opinion. Many of the recent updates have moved towards the fine line between microtransactions and RWT. Some updates have been geared towards the graphics, which, honestly, look absoultely terrible now. Most RS veterans will agree that Runescape was so fun because it was unique. Even despite the horrible graphics, we used to defend Runescape in all its glory because it was simple. It was fun to play with your friends. Now, everything seems to be geared towards making profit. Now, I know a company has to make money to stay around, but Runescape under the direction of Andrew Gower seemed to do just fine. Maybe I'm too cynical. Maybe it's because it is true. I don't know, but if Runescape doesn't straighten up its act soon, it will definitely not be around much longer.
Runescape
Posted by Blaise170 on
I've spent over 85 days in Runescape, starting December 9th, 2005; ending mid-autumn 2010. Last 3 of those years were as a member.
I agree with everything you have written. I had just logged in for the first time in 6 months yesterday, and I was presented with promotions and marketing schemes before the game even loaded. I played around for a while, but didn't enjoy any of it. The world was cramped with what looked like minigames and quest-related areas, and I saw absolutely no improvements. I was told to upgrade my account at every corner I turned.
I noticed the Runescape Website has adopted many characteristics that can be found in most other P2P MMORPGs, such as a sign-up splash screen, Members-only website community features, and purchasable game cards that offer greater benefits for those who spend more. This leads me to believe that Jagex is trying to make the game more like most other RPGs: Cluttered, complex, money-devouring, and and "free-to-play, pay-to-win".
Of course, change isn't necessarily a bad thing. In a world with such a small scale, things would definitely start to get repetitive. But with the type of updates I've seen so far, it loos like Jagex isn't trying to improve the world for those who have already explored it; they're trying to lure in a whole new set of adventurers with special offers and promotions.
It's good to see that other people around agree with my views. Many of my friends seem to think that all these updates are the greatest thing since sliced bread. I don't see much use for the Squeel of Fortune myself. Why pay for more spins?