Jagex reveals RuneScape 4 as a standalone Unreal Engine MMO
Jagex announced RuneScape 4 at RuneFest 2026, a new MMO built in Unreal Engine that evolved from a planned Dragonwilds expansion.
Jagex unveiled RuneScape 4 at RuneFest 2026 on Sunday, October 4th. The project is a new standalone MMORPG being built in Unreal Engine.
Originally conceived as an expansion for the Unreal Engine 5 survival game RuneScape: Dragonwilds, the scope grew. Playtester feedback requesting a more traditional MMO take on the Dragonwilds setting prompted the shift. The team realized the ambition warranted a full, independent game.
Technical foundation
The new MMO is being developed in Unreal Engine, a first for the RuneScape franchise. Jagex has not specified which version of the engine is being used. A dedicated team is working on the project, which the company states is in early development.
Setting and narrative
The story of RuneScape 4 picks up years after the events of Dragonwilds. It follows the period after the downfall of the Dragon Queen Kuldra. Set in Gielinor, the adventure begins in the Ashenfall region, the same area featured in Dragonwilds.
Players will revisit known areas and venture into mysterious new places. The game will focus on dragons, large-scale exploration, and adventuring. Jagex promises gamers will experience the world changing around them.
Position within the franchise
RuneScape 4 will exist alongside the current live games. RuneScape 3, Old School RuneScape, and Dragonwilds will all continue to run independently. The new title will not replace any existing game.
Each project will have its own content roadmap and dedicated team. Jagex stated it has learned from the success of Old School RuneScape. The company aims to build RuneScape 4 with direct community feedback, adhering to principles of integrity, permanent progression, and community-driven development.
Development status and outlook
RuneScape 4 is in early development and is still a few years away from release. Jagex is not ready to discuss target platforms. Real gameplay is not expected to be shown for a while.
Monetization details are unknown. It is also unknown whether player progress will carry over from RuneScape 3. Given the emphasis on community-driven development, early access or alpha build tests seem likely, though no information has been set.
The announcement was accompanied by a CGI teaser at RuneFest. It depicted a town in a green valley, floating islands, and a dragon rider under attack by a three-headed dragon. The expansion for Dragonwilds, from which RS4 evolved, was reportedly planned for 2027.
RuneScape 4 is still a few years away. Real gameplay is not expected for a while.
