OSRS Fire Cape vs Obsidian Cape: Which One Should You Choose?
In Old School RuneScape (OSRS), capes are more than just fashion statements—they’re powerful gear that can define your playstyle and showcase your achievements. Two of the most iconic capes for mid-to-high-level players are the Fire Cape and the Obsidian Cape. Whether you’re a melee enthusiast tackling tough PvM challenges or a casual adventurer looking for reliable stats, choosing between these capes can feel overwhelming. In this detailed comparison, we’ll break down their stats, acquisition methods, uses, and more to help you decide which cape suits your OSRS journey best. Let’s dive into the fiery depths of the Fire Cape and the sturdy simplicity of the Obsidian Cape!
Fire Cape: The Melee Masterpiece
The Fire Cape is a legendary melee cape earned by conquering the TzHaar Fight Cave, a grueling minigame that pits you against waves of enemies, culminating in a showdown with the fearsome TzTok-Jad. Known for its animated lava-flow design, this cape isn’t just a status symbol—it’s a powerhouse for melee combat, offering top-tier bonuses that make it a must-have for serious fighters.
Obsidian Cape: The Accessible All-Rounder
The Obsidian Cape, on the other hand, is a piece of the Obsidian armor set, obtainable through simpler means—either by purchasing it for 90,000 Tokkul from TzHaar-Hur-Tel’s Equipment Store in TzHaar City or as a drop from TzHaar monsters. With no skill requirements to equip, it’s a go-to choice for players who want solid defensive stats without the grind of the Fight Cave.
Stats Comparison: Fire Cape vs Obsidian Cape
Fire Cape Stats
The Fire Cape is renowned for its melee-focused bonuses, making it the second-best melee cape in OSRS (only outdone by the elusive Infernal Cape). Here’s what it brings to the table:
- Attack Bonuses: +1 Stab, +1 Slash, +1 Crush, +4 Strength
- Defence Bonuses: +11 to all styles (Stab, Slash, Crush, Magic, Ranged)
- Prayer Bonus: +2
- Weight: 1.814 kg
That +4 Strength bonus is a game-changer for melee DPS, giving you an edge in Slayer tasks, boss fights, and PvP encounters.
Obsidian Cape Stats
The Obsidian Cape prioritizes defence over offence, offering balanced stats that rival an untrimmed Cape of Accomplishment. Here’s the breakdown:
- Attack Bonuses: None
- Defence Bonuses: +9 to all styles (Stab, Slash, Crush, Magic, Ranged)
- Prayer Bonus: None
- Weight: 1.814 kg
While it lacks offensive bonuses, its +9 defence across the board makes it a reliable choice for tanking damage.
Side-by-Side Stats Table
| Stat | Fire Cape | Obsidian Cape |
|---|---|---|
| Stab Attack | +1 | 0 |
| Slash Attack | +1 | 0 |
| Crush Attack | +1 | 0 |
| Strength | +4 | 0 |
| Defence (All) | +11 | +9 |
| Prayer | +2 | 0 |
| Weight | 1.814 kg | 1.814 kg |
The Fire Cape clearly outshines the Obsidian Cape for melee combat, but the Obsidian Cape holds its own as a budget-friendly defensive option.
How to Get Each Cape
Obtaining the Fire Cape
Earning a Fire Cape is no walk in the park. You’ll need to complete the TzHaar Fight Cave, a 63-wave gauntlet featuring increasingly tough monsters, ending with TzTok-Jad. Here’s what’s involved:
- Requirements: 70+ Ranged or Melee recommended, 43+ Prayer for protection prayers.
- Time: 1-2 hours, depending on skill and gear.
- Difficulty: High—Jad’s one-hit KO attacks require precise prayer switching.
- Reward: The Fire Cape (plus 8,000 Tokkul if sold back).
It’s a test of endurance and skill, but the payoff is worth it for melee enthusiasts.
Obtaining the Obsidian Cape
The Obsidian Cape is far easier to acquire, making it accessible to a wider range of players:
- Requirements: None to equip; access to TzHaar City needed.
- Cost: 90,000 Tokkul (roughly 300-400k GP if buying Tokkul via the Grand Exchange).
- Drop Chance: Rare drop from TzHaar monsters.
- Time: Minutes if buying; variable if farming.
For players short on time or skill, the Obsidian Cape is a quick and practical pickup.
Practical Uses in OSRS
Fire Cape Uses
The Fire Cape’s offensive bonuses make it a staple for melee-focused activities:
- Slayer Tasks: Boosts DPS against high-HP targets like Abyssal Demons.
- Bossing: Essential for fights like the Giant Mole or early-game Zulrah attempts.
- PvP: The +4 Strength gives a slight edge in melee duels.
- Utility: Counts as warm clothing at Wintertodt and unlocks deeper access to Mor Ul Rek.
Plus, its animated design screams prestige—perfect for flexing at the Grand Exchange.
Obsidian Cape Uses
The Obsidian Cape shines as a versatile, low-effort defensive option:
- Early-to-Mid Game: Ideal for players without access to skill capes or the Fight Cave.
- Wintertodt: Counts as warm clothing, a rare perk for non-Fire Cape users.
- PKing: Cheap to replace, reducing risk in the Wilderness.
- Tanking: Solid defence for low-level bossing or PvM.
It’s a practical choice for Ironmen or casual players building up their accounts.
Which Cape Should You Choose?
For Combat Enthusiasts
If you live for melee combat and have the skills to tackle Jad, the Fire Cape is the clear winner. Its +4 Strength bonus translates to higher max hits, making it invaluable for Slayer, bossing, and PvP. The extra effort pays off in raw power and prestige.
For Casual Players or Ironmen
Not ready for the Fight Cave? The Obsidian Cape is your best bet. It’s easy to obtain, offers strong defensive stats, and serves as a stepping stone until you’re ready for bigger challenges. Ironmen, in particular, appreciate its accessibility early on.
Cost vs Reward Consideration
The Fire Cape is “free” in terms of GP but demands time and skill. The Obsidian Cape costs Tokkul (or GP equivalent), but it’s a low-barrier entry to solid stats. Weigh your resources—time versus money—and your goals in OSRS.
Final Verdict: For maximum combat potential, aim for the Fire Cape. For convenience and defence on a budget, stick with the Obsidian Cape until you’re ready to take on Jad.
Both capes have their place in OSRS, and your choice depends on your playstyle, skill level, and patience. Have you snagged a Fire Cape yet, or are you rocking the Obsidian Cape? Let us know your thoughts, and happy ‘scaping!