As RuneScape approaches its 25th anniversary, developer Jagex is expanding the franchise in a bold new direction. Unveiled at GDC 2025, RuneScape: Dragonwilds is an upcoming open world survival game set in the legendary fantasy universe of Gielinor.

In a featured interview with PC Gamer, Jake Blunt, Senior Community Manager at Jagex, shared an in-depth look at the game’s inspiration, systems, and goals. From magical mechanics to the return of iconic RuneScape elements, Dragonwilds promises to be both a fresh take on the survival genre and a faithful extension of the RuneScape legacy.

Why Make RuneScape a Survival Game?

Blunt explained that the transition to a survival-focused game was a natural evolution for the studio. RuneScape’s popular Ironman Mode, where players must progress entirely on their own, laid the groundwork for this idea.

“Ironman is essentially a survival game. We’ve always had the appetite to go further with that. Now, with the right team and timing, Dragonwilds brings that vision to life,” Blunt told PC Gamer.

The team saw an opportunity to blend the emotional resonance of RuneScape with the design of modern survival experiences like Valheim.

Survival Magic: A Unique Twist

Instead of sticking to traditional survival mechanics, Dragonwilds introduces Survival Magic — a system that allows players to perform high-powered tasks with flair and ease.

“You can conjure a spectral axe to fell trees in a single swing, explode logs into planks, or shatter rocks instantly,” Blunt said.

The system is designed to reduce grind and elevate player creativity, empowering builders, explorers, and adventurers alike.

PvP: A Player-Driven Possibility

While Dragonwilds is primarily a co-op survival game, PvP is being actively explored. During a game jam, Jagex created a prototype PvP mode and invited alpha testers to try it.

“It was janky, but players had fun,” Blunt admitted. “And that’s what matters. We listen. If players want more PvP, we’ll explore it.”

Currently, PvP is a toggleable option in alpha builds — and may expand based on future player feedback.

Appealing to All Survival Playstyles

Dragonwilds is built with multiple survival archetypes in mind — from relaxed builders to hardcore monster hunters.

“We’re planning updates by type — base building, monster hunting, crafting, and more — to ensure no group is left behind,” said Blunt.

This strategy ensures that players with different priorities will all find something meaningful in the game’s regular content cycles.

Honoring RuneScape’s Roots

Despite the genre shift, Dragonwilds stays true to the soul of RuneScape. Under the leadership of veteran narrative designer Mod Raven, the game will feature returning NPCs, signature humor, and deep lore tied to the RuneScape universe.

“It still feels like RuneScape,” Blunt said. “Even the party hats look incredible in Unreal Engine 5.”

A Familiar World in a New Engine

Dragonwilds features a reimagined Gielinor built in Unreal Engine 5, allowing for greater visual fidelity while retaining the charm of the original world.

“Sometimes I have to be the one saying, ‘That doesn’t look RuneScapey enough,’” Blunt laughed. “It’s tough — but it matters.”

Buildings, biomes, and characters will all look sharper — but still evoke the memories long-time players hold dear.

Early Access and the Road Ahead

RuneScape: Dragonwilds is slated to launch in Early Access on PC in 2025. A deeper look at gameplay will be shared during a live Twitch reveal on April 15, 2025.

“Community feedback is everything. That’s how RuneScape lasted 25 years, and that’s how Dragonwilds will grow too,” said Blunt.

Conclusion

RuneScape: Dragonwilds is more than a survival game — it’s a bold reimagining of a beloved franchise. With co-op gameplay, high-fantasy magic, and a commitment to community feedback, Jagex is setting the stage for RuneScape’s next generation.

This interview originally appeared via PC Gamer’s GDC 2025 coverage.

RuneScape: Dragonwilds launches in Early Access later in 2025.