OSRS Robert the Strong Unraveling the Legend of a Dragonkin Slayer
In the vast world of Old School RuneScape (OSRS), few characters capture the imagination quite like Robert the Strong. A towering hero from the Fourth Age, his legacy is woven into the lore of Gielinor, marked by epic battles against the Dragonkin and a surprising connection to a certain feline friend. This blog post dives deep into Robert’s story, his significance in OSRS quests, and why he remains a fan favorite. Whether you’re a lore enthusiast or a player tackling Dragon Slayer II, here’s everything you need to know about this legendary warrior.
Robert the Strong is a mythic figure in OSRS, renowned for his role in the Dragonkin Conflicts during the Fourth Age. Standing taller than any ordinary human, he’s depicted as a formidable warrior clad in armor resembling rock-shell armor and wielding a unique bow akin to an ogre bow. His exploits are central to quests like A Tail of Two Cats and Dragon Slayer II, where players uncover his past and face him in battle.
Origins and Background
Born on Teragard, the original human world, Robert hailed from a family of librarians, as revealed in the book The Young Robert found in his library. His curiosity about the Schism, a powerful energy source, hints at his adventurous spirit even before arriving on Gielinor. Once there, he earned his moniker through unmatched strength and bravery, rising as a savior against the Dragonkin’s terror.
Appearance and Gear
Robert’s imposing stature sets him apart. His armor, likely inspired by Fremennik rock-shell, and his six-foot-long bow make him a striking figure. In cutscenes, he’s shown using Dragonkinbane arrows, crafted after visiting the ruined plane of Kethsi—a testament to his resourcefulness and determination.
The Dragonkin Conflicts and Robert’s Legacy
The Dragonkin, enraged by the abuse of the Stone of Jas, wreaked havoc across Gielinor in the Fourth Age. Robert emerged as their greatest adversary, driving them into hiding and cementing his legend. His battles are more than just tales of valor; they shape the narrative of OSRS quests and lore.
Key Battles and Achievements
- Slaying a Dragonkin: In a pivotal cutscene from A Tail of Two Cats, Robert avenges his panther companion, Odysseus, by killing a Dragonkin in their castle.
- Kethsi Expeditions: Robert traveled to Kethsi, learning to craft Dragonkinbane weaponry, which was crucial to weakening his foes.
- Stone of Jas Vision: In While Guthix Sleeps, players see Robert in a vision, hinting at his interaction with the Stone and his strategic insight: using the Dragonkin’s curse against them.
Reincarnation as Bob the Cat
One of the most surprising twists in OSRS lore is that Robert is reincarnated as Bob the Cat. Revealed in A Tail of Two Cats, this connection adds depth to his character. Players help Bob recall his past life in Dragon Slayer II, facing Robert in a dream sequence—a battle that blends nostalgia with challenge.
Robert the Strong in OSRS Quests
Robert’s presence looms large in several quests, particularly A Tail of Two Cats and Dragon Slayer II. These quests not only explore his heroics but also test players’ skills against his formidable combat abilities.
A Tail of Two Cats
This quest introduces Robert through cutscenes, showing his duel with a Dragonkin. It’s a lighter quest with a focus on lore, setting the stage for his deeper role in later content. Players learn of his bond with Odysseus and his relationship with Ilsinor, his “sweetheart.”
Dragon Slayer II Battle Guide
In Dragon Slayer II, players face Robert in Bob’s dream. This fight is no walk in the park, so here’s a breakdown to help you succeed:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Recommended Stats | 70+ Attack, Strength, Defence; 80+ Ranged for hybrid approach |
| Gear | Torag’s or Dharok’s armor, Dragon boots, Toktz-ket-xil shield, Sarachnis cudgel or Dragon mace |
| Inventory | Super combat potion, 2-3 prayer potions, 8 karambwans, rest sharks |
| Strategy | Pray Protect from Missiles, use Piety/Chivalry, hide behind pillars when he shouts “See if you can hide from this!” to avoid his Strong Arrow special (up to 60 damage). |
Tip: His special attack disrupts prayers, so reactivate them quickly. Melee with a crush weapon is most effective, as Robert is resistant to other styles.
Fun Facts and Cultural References
Robert’s character is rich with nods to both OSRS history and real-world inspiration, making him a fascinating subject for lore hunters.
Connections to RuneScape 3
Robert’s Strong Arrow special attack mirrors Nomad’s Soul Blast from RuneScape 3’s Nomad’s Requiem, a subtle homage to shared lore. His mannerisms also echo Nomad’s, adding a layer of continuity between the games.
Real-World Inspirations
The name “Robert the Strong” may draw from historical figures like Robert the Strong, a Frankish nobleman who fought Vikings in the 9th century, or Robert the Bruce, Scotland’s hero king. While no direct confirmation exists, these parallels enrich his character’s gravitas.
Community Love for Bob
Fans adore the Robert-Bob connection, often memeing about Bob’s heroic past. Posts on Reddit, like one celebrating a player’s victory over Robert in Dragon Slayer II with 985 upvotes, show the community’s engagement with his story.
Why Robert the Strong Matters to OSRS Players
Robert isn’t just a background character; he’s a symbol of heroism, sacrifice, and the quirky charm of OSRS lore. His story bridges epic battles with personal touches, like his love for Odysseus and Ilsinor, making him relatable yet larger-than-life.
Lore Impact
Robert’s actions shaped Gielinor’s history, pushing back the Dragonkin and setting up future conflicts explored in quests like One of a Kind (RuneScape 3). His foresight—hiding items on Kethsi for future adventurers—shows a strategic mind, inspiring players to dig deeper into the lore.
Challenge and Reward
Facing Robert in Dragon Slayer II is a rite of passage for many players. Overcoming him feels like stepping into the shoes of a legend, and the community’s shared tips (like using pillars to dodge his special) foster a sense of camaraderie.
Enduring Appeal
From his reincarnation as Bob to his Kethsian adventures, Robert’s multifaceted story keeps players hooked. His blend of strength, mystery, and humor (who doesn’t love a cat-hero?) ensures he remains a staple in OSRS discussions, fan art, and theories.
Robert the Strong is more than a warrior; he’s a cornerstone of OSRS’s rich narrative tapestry. Whether you’re battling him in a dream or chuckling at Bob’s obliviousness, his legend resonates. Got a favorite Robert moment? Share it in the comments, and let’s keep the lore alive!