The historical rivalry between World of Warcraft and Old School RuneScape has taken an unexpected turn this summer, with a significant number of players and streamers, including the well-known Savix, moving to OSRS. This phenomenon has sparked an intense debate about the current popularity of both MMOs, even leading a representative from Jagex, the developer of RuneScape, to intervene in the discussion.
It is completely true to its reference MMORPG
The controversy began when Savix, who has been exploring the Ironman mode in Old School RuneScape, rejected a $5,000 offer to promote WoW: Mists of Pandaria Classic. In a Twitch stream, he expressed that he preferred to continue enjoying his progress in RuneScape, which sparked a wave of reactions among veterans and new fans. Some in the community even proclaimed that “RuneScape has won the MMO war.” However, players and developers have urged moderation, reminding that both games can be enjoyed simultaneously.
The Jagex moderator, known as Mod Sween, emphasized the importance of valuing each title without undermining the other, highlighting that they are pleased to see a resurgence of interest in OSRS. This exchange of comments reflects a common competitiveness in the genre, although it has maintained a more friendly than confrontational tone. Players who have migrated to OSRS do not necessarily do so out of disappointment with WoW, but many continue to enjoy both titles.
The growing popularity of Old School RuneScape does not stand as a declaration of war. Rather, it represents a celebration of diversity within the MMO genre, highlighting how both WoW and RuneScape have maintained loyal player bases for years. In the end, this situation illustrates the power of choice in video games, where the community celebrates the peculiarities of each game rather than competing for supremacy.
