After an adventure through Early Access, Jagex has announced that RuneScape: Dragonwilds is preparing to leave Early Access and make its console debut on September 15. The launch marks a major moment for the iconic RuneScape franchise, with Dragonwilds becoming the first game in the series to arrive on consoles in 25 years. Xbox Game Pass subscribers will also be able to jump into the adventure at no additional cost when it launches.
For those who haven’t ventured into the world of RuneScape before, Dragonwilds takes the franchise in a new direction, combining survival mechanics with RPG elements while remaining firmly rooted in the game’s long-running fantasy universe. Players take on the role of an ordinary adventurer rather than some legendary hero. Starting at level 1, you’ll need to explore, gather resources, craft equipment, and develop your skills before you’re ready to take on the game’s biggest threats, including the fearsome Queen Kuldra.
Set within Ashenfall, a mysterious continent located in the world of RuneScape, Dragonwilds gives players a large fantasy world to explore. The area is packed with familiar enemies and creatures, including Black Knights, Zogres, Chromatic Dragons, and Kalphites, alongside dangerous vaults, dragons, and plenty of secrets to uncover.
Survival isn’t simply about fighting your way through Ashenfall, either. Players will need to make use of the environment, gather resources, and master the game’s various skills as they push further into the continent. The game also introduces a range of magical abilities that can make everyday survival considerably more entertaining.
These Skill Spells allow players to summon a spectral axe to cut down trees, teleport away from danger, launch fish into the air, transform bones into peaches, and even explode ore with magic. There’s also the ability to jump ridiculously high, because apparently even surviving in a dangerous fantasy world needs a little fun.
Building is another major part of the experience, with players able to construct their own homes using hundreds of different building pieces. Whether you’re looking to create a simple shelter or something much more elaborate, the system is designed to give players plenty of freedom while also providing protection from the ever-present dragon threat.
While the console launch represents the next major step for RuneScape: Dragonwilds, Jagex isn’t stopping there. The developer has already outlined plans for a roadmap of additional content that will continue to expand the game in the years ahead, including new skills, regions, and adventures.
For RuneScape fans, the move to consoles is a significant milestone for a franchise that has been around for a quarter of a century. For newcomers, Dragonwilds could provide a very different way to experience the world of RuneScape. RuneScape: Dragonwilds launches worldwide on September 15 for consoles, with Xbox Game Pass subscribers able to begin their adventure from day one.
