History

• British developer Andrew Gower wrote the Runescape game with the assistance of his brother Paul Gower while Andrew was attending the University of Cambridge. The game went online in 2001. In the same year, the brothers formed Jagex Ltd. The game contained both 2D and 3D elements. Later, the developers re-engineered the game to be entirely three-dimensional.
  
  

Function

• Runescape can be played in most web browsers. The graphics are very simplistic. Nevertheless, Runescape has become one of the most popular role-playing games on the Internet. The Runescape servers span the globe. Players connect to a server that is close to them. You can play the basic game for free, or get additional game features for a small monthly fee.
  
  

Features

• As in other MMORPGs, each player has an avatar. The new player completes a brief tutorial when he first begins playing the game. Money and inventory items can be obtained by battling non-player characters, fishing, mining and completing quests. There are two graphics details levels; standard and high. Player-versus-player combat may take place in the Wilderness or in the Runescape Duel Arena.
  
  

Benefits

• This lightweight, Java-based game will run under almost any platform. It does not require a sophisticated graphics or sound card to run. It is available to people from all around the world. Game walkthroughs are readily available, as are detailed maps of the Runescape realm. The quests in Runescape are optional, but are nevertheless a good way to get desirable inventory items and money. There are teleport spells you can earn which can facilitate travel around the game realm. You can also take shortcuts, travel by sea or use spirit trees to get around Runescape.
  
  

Considerations

• The quality of the graphics in Runescape is poor in comparison to other role-playing games. Full screen mode is available only to paid members. The music is also very simplistic. You must have the most current version of Java to enjoy the full functionality of the game. There are no large-scale in-game maps. Traveling around by foot can be cumbersome and time-consuming. It usually takes time to get faster transportation methods.