I have been playing Runescape for a total of over 10,000 hours in the last 10 years. This game is incredibly enjoyable and offers so much more than other MMORPGs. Now, let's get on with the review.

Runescape, created by Jagex, has been a staple in the gaming world since 2001. The original version, now known as Runescape Classic, is no longer available. Players can dive into either Runescape 3 or Old School Runescape (OSRS), both boasting stable and high player bases. This review focuses primarily on Runescape 3, though I enjoy playing both versions due to their distinct content and experiences.

RS3, continually updated since 2003, features an ability-based combat system, more akin to other modern MMOs. In my view, this version is more beginner-friendly, heavily focusing on PVM with less active PVP due to the new combat system. RS3 also includes microtransactions, which I'll cover later in the review.

OSRS, a legacy version of Runescape 3, was launched in 2013 from a 2007 backup. It's especially nostalgic for many players. OSRS differs significantly in its combat system, lacking abilities and focusing more on straightforward attacks with some special weapon attacks. PVP remains very active in OSRS. Bonds in OSRS can be exchanged for membership and are purchasable with real money or in-game currency.

Runescape offers a free-to-play experience, but full content access requires membership, available for about $8-9 a month. Membership can also be obtained through in-game bond purchases. A single membership covers both Runescape 3 and OSRS.

Bonds, purchasable with real money or in-game currency, can be exchanged for membership, unlocking all content without real-world spending. They can also be used for runecoins in the 'Solomon Store' for cosmetics, bank slots, pets, etc. I don't view this as pay-to-win, though some functional items like bank slots and legendary pets offer minor gameplay advantages.

Runescape boasts 28 different skills, each levelable separately. Maxing a skill at 200m experience secures a hiscores spot. Achieving level 99 or 120 in skills grants 'Cape of accomplishment' or 'Master cape of accomplishment,' respectively. Your 'Combat level' increases as you level combat-related skills like magic, range, prayer, and summoning.

Runescape doesn't constrain players to a specific class. Instead, it offers various combat styles: melee (close-range combat), magic (distance-based spellcasting), and ranged (distance-based archery). Monsters have specific weaknesses, and combat revolves around using abilities, which increase with your level.

Runescape's quests differ significantly from typical MMO fare, offering story-driven, varied experiences rather than simple fetch or kill tasks. Completing quests yields points and rewards, with a 'Quest cape' available upon completing all quests.

This mode offers a fresh experience, even for veterans, by prohibiting trade with others. Players must be self-sufficient, crafting or earning their own equipment. It's a mode I particularly enjoy but recommend mainly to those already familiar with Runescape.

Similar to the standard Ironman modes, but with only one life. Certain 'safe deaths' don't affect hardcore status, and a 'jar of divine light' converts your account to a normal ironman/woman upon depleting lives.

RS3 includes microtransactions, but I don't view them as overtly pay-to-win. They can expedite progress in hiscores but are not essential, especially in the Ironman/Ironwoman mode where they're disabled.

📚 Diverse Skills: 28 different skills offering a variety of gameplay experiences.
🗺️ Extensive Quests: Over 227 quests, each with unique storylines and challenges.
🎵 Rich Music: A large track list that enhances the gaming atmosphere.
🏅 Achievement System: Unique tasks with rewarding achievement diaries.
🛡️ Engaging Raids: Challenging raids and minigames for dynamic gameplay.
🌍 Multiple Worlds: Less crowding and more exploration options.
🏡 Player-Owned Features: Farms and houses for personalized space.
🐉 Challenging Dungeons: Exciting dungeons and bosses for skill testing.
🎥 Plenty of Guides: Abundant YouTube guides for easy learning.
📱 Versatile Interface: Customizable and mobile-friendly gaming interface.
💰 Expansive Banking: Large and expandable banking system for item management.
💎 Bonds System: In-game benefits accessible through bonds.
👥 Clan Community: Clans and citadels for communal play and support.
🔨 Self-Sufficient Modes: Ironman/Ironwoman modes for independent gameplay.
🚀 Open Class System: Freedom to choose any class, ensuring diverse gameplay.
📢 Regular Updates: Consistent game updates and a plethora of cosmetics.
🌐 Vast World: Large, accessible world even on low-spec devices.
🌟 High-Quality Graphics: Visually impressive graphics enhancing player immersion.

💳 Microtransactions: The game includes microtransactions which may affect gameplay.
⏳ Grindy Elements: Some gameplay aspects can feel repetitive and grindy.
🎮 Declining Minigames: Minigames and PVP sections less active than before.
🏁 Challenging Events: Keeping up with events can be demanding and time-consuming.
🤯 Overwhelming for Newcomers: The game's vastness can be daunting for first-time players.

Runescape offers an expansive world with thousands of hours of gameplay. It's a game that everyone should try to see if it suits them. The game can be overwhelming for newcomers, but there's a helpful community and plenty of online resources. It's also great for group play, like bossing, raiding, and questing together.