Jagex Unveils Unreal Engine-Powered RuneScape 4 and Animated Series at RuneFest

Key points

• Jagex revealed RuneScape 4 at RuneFest 2026 in Birmingham, marking the first mainline entry to use Unreal Engine.
• The game is in early development, with a release expected in a few years, and will operate concurrently with RuneScape 3, Old School RuneScape, and Dragonwilds.
• Jagex partnered with Lyrical Animation and streamer Charlie 'MoistCr1tikal' White to produce an animated series based on the Gielinor universe.
• RuneScape 4 originated as a planned expansion for Dragonwilds but evolved into a standalone MMO after player feedback.
• The franchise has generated over $3 billion in lifetime revenue and 300 million accounts since 2001.

Background

RuneScape, launched in 2001, is a long-running MMORPG franchise that has expanded to include Old School RuneScape and the survival game RuneScape: Dragonwilds. The series is known for its persistent, concurrent game versions, allowing players to access multiple iterations simultaneously. Recent developments include the console release of Dragonwilds in September 2026 and ongoing community-driven development models.

How outlets are covering it

Kotaku highlights the shift to Unreal Engine as a major technical upgrade for the mainline series, noting the uncertainty regarding whether the game will use Unreal Engine 5 or 6. TechPowerUp emphasizes the game's origins as a Dragonwilds expansion that grew into a standalone title due to player demand for a traditional MMO experience. Jagex's official press release focuses on the cross-media expansion, detailing the partnership with Lyrical Animation and Charlie White, and stressing the franchise's commitment to integrity and permanent progression. While Kotaku questions whether players will embrace a modern visual style, TechPowerUp notes that the new game will run alongside existing titles, a rarity in the MMO genre.

Why it matters

The announcement signals a significant technological and strategic shift for a 25-year-old franchise, moving from its proprietary RuneTek engine to Unreal Engine. The concurrent release of an animated series indicates Jagex's intent to expand the RuneScape brand beyond gaming into broader media, leveraging popular digital creators to reach new audiences.

What to watch

Jagex plans to reveal more details about the animated series in 2027. RuneScape 4 is in early development, with no specific release date or platform details provided yet. The studio will continue supporting existing titles while developing the new MMO and cartoon.