Jagex Unveils RuneScape 4 and Animated Series at RuneFest 2026

Key points

• Jagex revealed RuneScape 4 (RS4) at RuneFest 2026 in Birmingham, UK, marking the first numbered follow-up since RuneScape 3 in 2013.
• RS4 is built in Unreal Engine, though the specific version was not disclosed, and is in early development with a dedicated team.
• The game originated as an expansion for RuneScape: Dragonwilds but evolved into a standalone MMO after player feedback requested a more traditional experience.
• A CGI teaser showed a green valley, floating islands, and a dragon rider facing a three-headed dragon in the Ashenfall region.
• Jagex also announced an animated series based on RuneScape, developed by Lyrical Animation and creator Charlie 'MoistCr1TiKaL' White.
• Existing titles, including RuneScape 3, Old School RuneScape, and Dragonwilds, will continue to operate alongside RS4.

Background

Jagex has expanded the RuneScape franchise since 2001, including Old School RuneScape and the survival game RuneScape: Dragonwilds. The announcement follows a broader industry trend of major franchises transitioning to Unreal Engine, as seen with CD Projekt Red's Witcher 4. The animated series represents a new step in Jagex's ambition to expand the RuneScape world beyond gaming, leveraging the 25-year history of the franchise and its large player base.

How outlets are covering it

TechPowerUp focused on the technical and developmental aspects of RuneScape 4, emphasizing its Unreal Engine foundation, early development status, and origins as a Dragonwilds expansion. Variety highlighted the animated series announcement, focusing on the partnership with Lyrical Animation and Charlie White, and framing it as a strategic move to expand the franchise beyond gaming. Both outlets confirmed the announcement at RuneFest 2026 but emphasized different aspects of Jagex's broader expansion strategy.

Why it matters

The announcement signals Jagex's commitment to evolving the RuneScape franchise through new technology and media formats. The shift to Unreal Engine and the development of an animated series indicate a strategic move to modernize the franchise and reach new audiences, while maintaining support for existing titles. The long development timeline suggests a cautious approach to ensuring quality and player engagement.

What to watch

Jagex is expected to reveal more details about the animated series in 2027. RuneScape 4 is in early development and is not expected to launch for a few years. No specific release dates or platform details have been announced for either project.