Best Magic Spells in Old School RuneScape for Every Playstyle
Magic in Old School RuneScape (OSRS) is a cornerstone skill, offering players a versatile toolkit for combat, utility, and exploration. Whether you’re battling bosses, teleporting across Gielinor, or enchanting items, the right spells can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll explore the best magic spells in OSRS, covering combat, teleportation, and utility options across all spellbooks. From free-to-play (F2P) beginners to pay-to-play (P2P) veterans, there’s something here for everyone looking to master magic.
Magic isn’t just about dealing damage—it’s about strategy and efficiency. Combat spells let you tackle tough enemies, while utility spells save time and resources. Teleport spells are a game-changer for getting around the massive world of OSRS. Choosing the right spell depends on your goals, whether it’s leveling up, making money, or dominating in PvP. With four spellbooks—Standard, Ancient, Lunar, and Arceuus—there’s a wealth of options to explore.
Understanding Spellbooks
Each spellbook serves a unique purpose:
- Standard Spellbook: Available to all players, it offers a mix of combat, teleport, and utility spells.
- Ancient Magicks: Unlocked after Desert Treasure, focused on powerful combat spells.
- Lunar Spellbook: Unlocked via Lunar Diplomacy, emphasizing support and skilling spells.
- Arceuus Spellbook: Gained with Arceuus favor, great for reanimation and utility.
Top Combat Spells for PvM and PvP
Combat spells are the backbone of any mage’s arsenal. They range from low-level strikes to devastating barrages, each suited for specific scenarios. Here are the best picks for dealing damage and controlling the battlefield.
Fire Surge (Standard Spellbook)
Fire Surge is the most powerful elemental spell in the Standard Spellbook, requiring 95 Magic. It delivers a base max hit of 24, boosted further with gear like the Tome of Fire. It’s ideal for PvM against enemies weak to fire, like the Kraken, and shines in PvP for its high damage output.
- Requirements: 95 Magic, 7 Fire, 10 Air, 1 Wrath Rune
- Best Use: High-damage PvM, PvP burst damage
Ice Barrage (Ancient Magicks)
Ice Barrage, requiring 94 Magic, is the king of Ancient Magicks. It freezes enemies for 20 seconds and hits multiple targets with a base max hit of 30. It’s a staple for PvP, Slayer tasks like bursting maniacal monkeys, and bossing where crowd control is key.
- Requirements: 94 Magic, 6 Water, 2 Blood, 4 Death Runes
- Best Use: PvP, multi-target Slayer, boss kiting
Vulnerability (Standard Spellbook)
Vulnerability lowers an enemy’s Defense by 10%, making it a must-have for PvM against high-defense bosses like Zulrah. At 66 Magic, it’s accessible for mid-level players and pairs well with melee or ranged teammates.
- Requirements: 66 Magic, 5 Earth, 5 Water, 1 Soul Rune
- Best Use: Bossing, team PvM
Essential Teleport Spells for Fast Travel
Teleport spells save hours of travel time, letting you zip to key locations for quests, skilling, or PvM. They’re especially valuable for Ironmen and players optimizing their gameplay.
Varrock Teleport (Standard Spellbook)
Varrock Teleport, available at 25 Magic, is a F2P-friendly spell that drops you near the Grand Exchange. It’s perfect for trading, banking, or accessing Varrock’s activities like the Agility course.
- Requirements: 25 Magic, 3 Air, 1 Fire, 1 Law Rune
- Best Use: Trading, questing, skilling
Annakarl Teleport (Ancient Magicks)
Requiring 90 Magic, Annakarl Teleport places you in the Demonic Ruins in the Wilderness. It’s a high-risk, high-reward spell for PvP or Wilderness Slayer, offering quick access to dangerous areas.
- Requirements: 90 Magic, 2 Blood, 2 Law Runes
- Best Use: Wilderness PvP, Slayer tasks
Utility Spells for Skilling and Money-Making
Utility spells are where Magic shines outside combat. They boost efficiency, save resources, and even turn a profit. These spells are essential for players looking to maximize their time in OSRS.
High Level Alchemy (Standard Spellbook)
High Level Alchemy, unlocked at 55 Magic, converts items into coins based on their alch value. It’s one of the best ways to train Magic profitably, especially with items like Yew Longbows or Rune equipment. Pair it with a Staff of Fire to save runes.
String Jewellery (Lunar Spellbook)
String Jewellery, requiring 80 Magic, crafts amulets at a rapid pace, offering decent Magic and Crafting XP. It’s a semi-AFK method for training and can be profitable with gold amulets.
- Requirements: 80 Magic, 10 Earth, 2 Astral Runes
- Best Use: Skilling, AFK training
Reanimate Demon (Arceuus Spellbook)
Reanimate Demon lets you summon defeated monsters to fight for you, granting Prayer XP alongside Magic XP. At 72 Magic, it’s great for Ironmen or players training Prayer efficiently.
Best Spells for Beginners (F2P and Low-Level)
New players or those sticking to F2P need spells that are accessible and effective. These options help you level up Magic without breaking the bank.
Fire Strike (Standard Spellbook)
Fire Strike, available at 13 Magic, is the strongest F2P strike spell. It’s cheap to cast and great for early combat training against cows or goblins.
Low Level Alchemy (Standard Spellbook)
Low Level Alchemy, at 21 Magic, is a budget-friendly way to train Magic while turning low-value items into coins. It’s less profitable than High Alch but perfect for F2P players.
Spellbook Comparison and When to Use Each
Choosing the right spellbook depends on your playstyle and goals. Below is a table comparing the spellbooks and their standout spells to help you decide.
| Spellbook | Key Spells | Best For | Unlock Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Fire Surge, High Level Alchemy, Vulnerability | All-purpose, F2P, money-making | None |
| Ancient | Ice Barrage, Annakarl Teleport | PvP, multi-target PvM | Desert Treasure |
| Lunar | String Jewellery, Vengeance | Skilling, team support | Lunar Diplomacy |
| Arceuus | Reanimate Demon, Offering Spells | Prayer training, utility | 60% Arceuus Favor |
Tips for Choosing Your Spellbook
Switch strategically: Use the Magic Skillcape or altars to swap spellbooks based on your activity. For example, stick to Ancients for PvP, but switch to Standard for alching.
Consider costs: Ancient Magicks are rune-intensive, so ensure you have the budget before spamming Ice Barrage.
Quest early: Unlock Lunar and Ancient spellbooks as soon as possible for access to high-level spells.
Maximizing Spell Efficiency
To get the most out of your spells:
- Use elemental staves: A Staff of Fire eliminates Fire Rune costs for spells like High Alch.
- Boost Magic accuracy: Equip gear like the Ancestral Set or Kodai Wand for better spell hits.
- Combine with potions: Divine Battlemage Potion boosts Magic and Defense, perfect for bossing.
Magic in OSRS is a dynamic skill that rewards preparation and knowledge. Whether you’re blasting enemies with Fire Surge, teleporting to Varrock, or alching for profit, these spells will elevate your gameplay. Experiment with different spellbooks and find the combo that suits your style—Gielinor is yours to conquer!