E308: Runescape HD is officially coming to a monitor near you
If you weren't aware, the free-to-play browser-based MMORPG Runescape is being reborn as Runescape HD. That means players with computers capable of handling the graphics (and at this point that's probably all of them) will be able to enjoy Runescape with both improved visuals and at a full-screen setting. The visual upgrades consist of a new lighting system and procedural texturing system. According to Jagex, the game still runs at below 256mb of RAM on most machines and is very much an efficient title even with the upgrade. We have to admit it's a pretty impressive upgrade for a browser game. The official FAQ on the Runescape HD experience upgrade can be found after the cut.
Massively will have more information for you from our hands on time with the HD experience and new tutorial; expect details on that later today!
What is RuneScape HD?
RuneScape is the largest and farthest reaching Java game worldwide, and the second largest massively multiplayer online (MMO) game in the world. Runescape HD, the newest version of the game, delivers the first fully immersive full-screen MMO game experience with the "click and play" ease of a browser based game. Runescape HD runs like a top quality off-the-shelf game, without the need for software or a large download, and offers a character-based gaming experience, in which players can choose any path they like for gameplay.
How is RuneScape HD different from previous versions of the game?
RuneScape HD is a series of improvements, all researched and implemented with a single objective: to massively improve RuneScape graphically. A new lighting system and procedural texturing have been incorporated into RuneScape HD to enhance the graphics far beyond anything offered in a browser-based game today. The game boasts a massive world to travel across, over 100 quests and weekly updates to content and characters. Moving forward, RuneScape HD will focus on multiplayer and team-based gaming, providing players with social content and deeper opportunities to engage with and meet other players.
How does Jagex fit in?
Jagex Ltd., is an independent developer and publisher of online games headquartered in Cambridge, United Kingdom. The company is best known for RuneScape, but is also the publisher of many other games on FunOrb. With the launch of RuneScape HD, Jagex is redefining immersive online gaming, raising the bar for innovation in MMOs and the online games industry at large. With more than seven years in the space, Jagex has secured RuneScape's position as one of the largest MMOs in the world.
Does Jagex have venture funding?
Jagex is an independent game developer. In fact, it is the largest independent game developer in the United Kingdom, with nearly 400 employees. What is the release date of RuneScape HD? Is this a beta version? RuneScape HD will be live for U.S.-based players by mid-July 2008. This release is the full version upgrade.
Who is the target audience?
RuneScape HD attracts a new audience of enthusiast gamers that is untapped and underserved by the existing games space. RuneScape HD offers gameplay that appeals to a wide range of demographics and psychographics, and is recommended for gamers of all ages.
What makes RuneScape HD different from other MMOs?
No other MMO property can match the graphics, accessibility or user adoption of RuneScape HD-in an ever-growing market, RuneScape has sustained its stronghold and remained a dominant force in online gaming for more than seven years. The game caters to a 'roaming' audience, allowing users to play anytime, anywhere, from any computer. Given that today's gamers expect easy access to their favorite games, RuneScape HD's flexible game experience attracts many audiences and enables a fulfilling experience for casual players and enthusiasts. Further, play is free to anyone, and RuneScape HD can be easily played on the same computers that first accessed it seven years ago.
How many users does RuneScape have?
RuneScape has over 1 million subscribers and has been played by over 6 million players worldwide in the last 14 days.
How much does it cost to play?
RuneScape is free to play for everyone. For upgraded game access, subscriptions are available starting at US$5.00.
In what countries is RuneScape HD available?
While most of RuneScape's players are based in the U.S., gameplay is available worldwide. The game has language and currency localization for the following countries: United Kingdom, Germany.
