When Was Old School RuneScape (OSRS) Released? A Deep Dive into Its History
Old School RuneScape, often abbreviated as OSRS, is a beloved massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) that has captured the hearts of millions of players worldwide. Known for its nostalgic charm and community-driven development, OSRS stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of retro gaming. But when was OSRS released, and what led to its creation? In this blog post, we’ll explore the release date of OSRS, its origins, key milestones, and why it remains a cultural phenomenon in 2025. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious newcomer, this detailed journey through OSRS history will answer all your questions.
The Evolution of RuneScape
RuneScape, the parent game of OSRS, first launched on January 4, 2001, created by brothers Andrew and Paul Gower under their company, Jagex. Initially a browser-based game built with Java, RuneScape grew into one of the most popular MMORPGs of its time. Over the years, it underwent significant updates, including the transition to RuneScape 2 in 2004 and RuneScape 3 in 2013. These updates brought enhanced graphics, new mechanics, and a modernized experience—but not all players were on board with the changes.
The Push for a Retro Version
By 2012, dissatisfaction with RuneScape’s direction peaked, particularly after the controversial “Evolution of Combat” update. Many veteran players longed for the simpler, nostalgic gameplay of the mid-2000s. This discontent sparked a grassroots movement, with communities rallying for a return to the 2007 version of RuneScape. Jagex took notice and, in early 2013, announced a bold plan: they would poll the player base to determine interest in reviving an older version of the game.
The Official Release Date of OSRS
Announcement and Voting Process
On February 13, 2013, Jagex officially announced the possibility of launching “Old School RuneScape,” based on a backup of the game’s source code from August 10, 2007. To gauge demand, they opened a poll on February 15, 2013, with tiered voting thresholds that would determine the game’s features and accessibility:
- 50,000 votes: Minimum needed to launch OSRS.
- 250,000 votes: Additional resources for development.
- 500,000 votes: No extra membership fee and enhanced features.
- 750,000 votes: Full support with no additional costs.
The poll closed on March 1, 2013, with 449,351 votes—falling just short of the 500,000 mark. Despite this, Jagex committed to launching OSRS without an extra fee for the first six months, a decision that would later become permanent.
Launch Day: February 22, 2013
Old School RuneScape officially released on February 22, 2013, earlier than anticipated, as part of an “Early Access” scheme. Jagex opened over 50 servers and granted a free month of membership to all poll voters. On launch day, OSRS hit 50,000 concurrent players within just four hours, signaling an immediate success. Built from the August 2007 codebase, it retained the classic point-and-click interface, low-poly graphics, and mechanics that fans adored.
Key Milestones After the Release
Introduction of Free-to-Play (February 19, 2015)
Initially, OSRS was exclusive to paying members. However, on January 25, 2015, Jagex announced a poll to introduce permanent free-to-play (F2P) access alongside membership bonds—items players could buy with real money or earn in-game to pay for membership. The poll passed, and on February 19, 2015, OSRS became free-to-play, broadening its reach and welcoming new adventurers to Gielinor.
Mobile Release (October 30, 2018)
A major milestone came with the mobile launch of OSRS on October 30, 2018, for iOS and Android. After a beta phase starting in June 2018, the full release offered cross-platform play, allowing seamless transitions between mobile and desktop. This accessibility boosted OSRS’s popularity, with over 500,000 downloads during its soft launch in select regions. The mobile version retained the full experience, from epic boss fights to skilling, making it a game-changer for on-the-go players.
Peak Player Counts and Beyond
OSRS has consistently grown since its debut. Its highest recorded peak came on December 1, 2024, with 231,719 concurrent players, surpassing even RuneScape 3’s numbers. This milestone, reported by the OSRS Wiki, underscores its status as Jagex’s flagship title in 2025, driven by regular updates and a passionate community.
Why OSRS Remains Popular in 2025
Community-Driven Development
Unlike most MMORPGs, OSRS thrives on player input. Since its release, over 2,800 polls have shaped its content, from new quests like “Song of the Elves” to skills like Sailing (introduced in 2025). Updates require a 70% approval rate from eligible voters (players with a total level of 280+), ensuring the game evolves in line with community desires. This democratic approach keeps OSRS fresh yet true to its roots.
Nostalgia Meets Innovation
OSRS blends the 2007 experience with modern additions. Areas like Fossil Island and bosses like the Nightmare of Ashihama didn’t exist in the original codebase but were added post-launch. This balance of nostalgia and innovation appeals to both returning veterans and new players exploring Gielinor for the first time.
A Robust Free-to-Play Model
The F2P option, combined with membership bonds, makes OSRS accessible without upfront costs. Free players can enjoy a substantial portion of the game, while members unlock extras like additional skills (e.g., Slayer) and quests. This flexibility has sustained a diverse player base for over a decade.
OSRS Release Timeline: A Quick Overview
Here’s a concise table summarizing key dates in OSRS’s history:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| February 13, 2013 | Jagex announces OSRS and opens poll |
| February 22, 2013 | OSRS officially releases |
| February 19, 2015 | Free-to-play introduced |
| October 30, 2018 | Mobile version launches |
| December 1, 2024 | Record peak of 231,719 players |
How OSRS Compares to RuneScape 3
While RuneScape 3 offers advanced graphics and a more structured narrative, OSRS prioritizes simplicity and freedom. Its retro aesthetic and lack of rigid class systems—relying instead on 23 skills like Fishing and Magic—set it apart. Players often cite OSRS’s grindy, sandbox nature as a refreshing contrast to modern MMORPGs.
The Future of OSRS
As of April 7, 2025, OSRS shows no signs of slowing down. The recent addition of Sailing as a skill, approved via community poll, marks a historic shift, being the first new skill since launch. With Jagex’s commitment to player feedback and cross-platform support, OSRS is poised to remain a staple of the MMORPG genre for years to come.
Conclusion
Old School RuneScape was released on February 22, 2013, born from a desire to recapture the magic of 2007 RuneScape. From its humble beginnings to its mobile expansion and record-breaking player counts, OSRS has evolved into a cultural icon. Its unique blend of nostalgia, community governance, and accessibility ensures it thrives in 2025 and beyond. Whether you’re chopping trees in Lumbridge or battling the Theatre of Blood, OSRS offers an adventure shaped by its players—one that started over 12 years ago and continues to grow. When was OSRS released? Now you know: it’s a legacy that began in 2013 and still defines retro gaming today.