How to Create a New OSRS Account Step by Step Guide

Old School RuneScape (OSRS) is a beloved MMORPG that takes players back to the nostalgic world of Gielinor as it was in 2007. Whether you’re a returning player or a newcomer eager to explore this iconic game, creating a new OSRS account is your first step toward adventure. This comprehensive guide walks you through the process of setting up a new account, securing it, and starting your journey, all while optimizing for a smooth experience. Let’s dive into how to create a new OSRS account and set yourself up for success!

Before we get into the steps, let’s explore why you might want to start fresh with a new OSRS account. Old School RuneScape offers a unique blend of nostalgia and fresh content, with over 230,000 concurrent players at its peak in 2024, making it a thriving community. Here are some reasons to create a new account:

• Nostalgic Adventure: Relive the 2007 RuneScape experience with updated mechanics and community-driven content.
• Specialized Builds: Create accounts for specific playstyles, like Ironman, Pure, or Skiller, to challenge yourself.
• Fresh Start: If you’re returning after years away, a new account lets you experience the game anew without outdated progress.
• Community Engagement: Join clans, participate in polls, and shape the game’s future with your account.

With these motivations in mind, let’s move on to the account creation process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating an OSRS Account

Creating an OSRS account is straightforward, but following the right steps ensures your account is secure and ready for the game. Below is a detailed breakdown of the process.

Visit the Official RuneScape Website

Start by navigating to the official RuneScape website at runescape.com. This is the central hub for both RuneScape and Old School RuneScape. On the homepage, look for the “Create an Account” or “Sign Up” button, typically prominently displayed. Avoid third-party sites to prevent phishing scams.

Provide Basic Information

Once you click “Create an Account,” you’ll be prompted to enter the following details:

• Email Address: Use a valid email for account verification and recovery. Jagex requires this as of January 2010.
• Username: Choose a unique name that will represent your character in-game. This is how other players will see you.
• Password: Create a strong password with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using special characters like punctuation, as they’re not allowed in OSRS passwords.

Tip: Write down your password and store it securely. Never reuse passwords across different platforms to protect your account.

Complete the CAPTCHA and Verification

After entering your details, you’ll need to complete a CAPTCHA to verify you’re not a bot. Jagex may also send a verification email to your provided address. Check your inbox (and spam folder) for a link to confirm your email. This step is crucial for account recovery and security.

Choose Your Game Mode

Once your account is created, you’ll start on Tutorial Island, where you’ll learn basic game mechanics. At the end of the tutorial, you can choose a game mode:

Game Mode	Description	Best For
Main Account	Standard account with no restrictions, allowing trading and all skills.	New players or those wanting flexibility.
Ironman Mode	Self-sufficient mode with no trading or player interaction for items.	Players seeking a solo challenge.
Hardcore Ironman	Ironman with one life; death converts to regular Ironman.	Experienced players wanting high stakes.
Ultimate Ironman	Ironman with no bank access, requiring inventory management.	Veterans looking for extreme difficulty.

Note: Ironman modes cannot be added to an existing account after creation, so choose carefully or create a new account later if needed.

Securing Your OSRS Account

Account security is critical in OSRS, as hijacking and scams are real risks. Jagex bans accounts involved in real-world trading or botting, so protecting your account ensures you can enjoy Gielinor safely. Here’s how to secure your new account.

Set Up the RuneScape Authenticator

The RuneScape Authenticator adds two-factor authentication (2FA) to your account. Visit the Authenticator landing page on the RuneScape website, scan the QR code with an app like Google Authenticator, and enable it. This generates a 6-digit code every 30 seconds, required for logins on untrusted devices.

Why It Matters: 2FA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access, even if someone knows your password.

Register Your Email and Set Recovery Questions

Ensure your email is registered with Jagex for account recovery. Set up recovery questions in the account management section to help regain access if you lose your password. Use answers that are memorable but hard for others to guess.

Avoid Phishing and Sharing Account Details

Jagex never contacts players via email, only through the in-game Message Centre. Ignore emails claiming to be from Jagex, and never share your account details. Log out after playing, especially on shared computers, to prevent autofill vulnerabilities.

Getting Started in Old School RuneScape

With your account created and secured, it’s time to jump into OSRS. Here’s how to make the most of your early game experience.

Complete Tutorial Island

All new accounts begin on Tutorial Island, where you’ll learn movement, combat, skilling, and more. Follow the NPC instructions to gain basic knowledge of the game. This takes about 10-15 minutes and sets you up for success in Lumbridge, your starting hub.

Explore Free-to-Play Content

New accounts are free-to-play by default, with access to limited worlds and content. Focus on these early goals:

• Complete F2P Quests: Quests like “Cook’s Assistant” and “The Restless Ghost” are beginner-friendly and offer experience.
• Train Combat: Fight cows or goblins in Lumbridge to level up Attack, Strength, and Defence.
• Earn Gold: Collect cowhides or mine copper ore to sell at the Grand Exchange for starting cash.

Use the OSRS Wiki (oldschool.runescape.wiki) for detailed guides on quests and money-making.

Consider Membership for Full Access

While free-to-play is fun, a membership unlocks the full OSRS experience, including all skills, quests, and members-only worlds. Membership is shared between RuneScape and OSRS, so one subscription covers both games. Sign up via the RuneScape website or in-game, and consider the benefits:

• More Skills: Access skills like Slayer, Farming, and Construction.
• Exclusive Areas: Explore regions like Morytania and the Elf Lands.
• Better Money-Making: Engage in high-level activities like bossing and clue scrolls.

Tips for New OSRS Players

To wrap up, here are some essential tips to help you thrive as a new OSRS player:

Use RuneLite for Enhanced Gameplay

Download RuneLite, a Jagex-approved third-party client, via the Jagex Launcher. It offers plugins like Quest Helper, Ground Items, and a Wiki button to streamline your experience. RuneLite is especially useful for beginners navigating complex mechanics.

Join a Clan or Community

OSRS is a social game. Join a clan through the in-game Clan Hub or forums to find friends, get advice, and participate in group activities like raids. Reddit’s r/oldschoolrs is another great place to connect.

Stay Updated with News

Check the RuneScape website or follow @OldSchoolRS on Twitter for updates, events, and polls. OSRS is community-driven, with over 1,000 polls since 2013 shaping the game’s direction.

Avoid Real-World Trading

Buying or selling accounts, gold, or items for real money violates Jagex’s rules and risks a permanent ban. Stick to legitimate gameplay to protect your account and the game’s economy.

Creating a new OSRS account is your gateway to a world of adventure, community, and nostalgia. By following this guide, you’ve set up a secure account, chosen the right game mode, and learned how to start strong. Whether you’re slaying dragons, skilling to 99, or exploring Gielinor’s lore, your OSRS journey begins now. Log in, complete Tutorial Island, and let the adventure unfold!