On April 15th, Jagex launched RuneScape: Dragonwilds, an unexpected twist for the famous franchise after 24 years since the original RuneScape. Instead of its traditional MMO format, the new title delves into the cooperative survival genre, quickly capturing the attention of players with this innovative proposal.
A change that has suited the franchise well
The game has reached a peak of 52,641 simultaneous players and has received 85% positive reviews, suggesting that this change in direction has been well received by the community. With a third-person camera and a cartoon art style, Dragonwilds moves away from the classic isometric view, presenting a more accessible world for new generations.
Dragonwilds incorporates collection and building mechanics typical of the survival genre, but adds a distinctive element: magic is accessible to all characters. This creative use of magic allows players to automate resource gathering or perform tasks that would normally be tedious, providing a fresh and engaging approach to the game’s survival mechanics.
Dragons, which act as active threats in the environment, are a relevant component of the gameplay, adding a level of tension to exploration and building. Players must stay alert, as these creatures can devastate their bases at any moment, introducing an element of risk and excitement.
Although Dragonwilds may not be what fans of the saga expected, its playful approach and the possibility of innovating in the survival genre could revitalize interest in the RuneScape universe. If the game overcomes the typical challenges of its early access period and optimizes its content, it could become a radically successful spin-off for Jagex.
