RuneFest 2026: what Jagex announced about RS4

Jagex revealed a new RuneScape MMORPG at RuneFest 2026, under the working title RS4. The announcement introduced the project, its setting and a concept teaser, while explaining why the studio wanted to involve players years before launch.

About this report: this article records what was announced at RuneFest 2026. For the latest reviewed picture, use the RS4 overview and release and beta FAQ. Later announcements belong in those current guides and their own event coverage; corrections to this report will be noted here.

Watch the official concept teaser

The player above uses Jagex’s own video, linked from its RS4 announcement page. You can also open the official video directly.

Treat it as an early concept presentation. It does not establish final gameplay, a combat system, a control scheme or a playable release. The announcement itself leaves those details open.

What the reveal established

Jagex named Unreal Engine as the technology behind the new MMORPG. The reveal did not specify an engine version or system requirements, and did not present RS4 as a Dragonwilds expansion or a replacement for the current RuneScape client.

The announced story begins in Ashenfall during the Sixth Age, years after Dragonwilds and Kuldra’s destruction. Jagex described an ambition to explore more of Gielinor over time, without providing a launch map or expansion schedule.

The publisher said Old School RuneScape, RuneScape and Dragonwilds would continue alongside RS4, with their own teams and plans. The reveal did not promise shared characters, items, subscriptions or gameplay.

Why reveal it before it is ready to play?

Jagex explained that it wanted to involve players earlier in development, using feedback to help shape the project. It cited community participation in its existing MMOs and technical lessons from Dragonwilds. Integrity and enduring character progression were stated priorities, rather than detailed mechanics announced at the event.

What Jagex said about timing

The announcement offered no release date or playable test. Jagex said launch was several years away.

It promised more information in 2027: the October 2026 announcement said Jagex would discuss the world, the game, the team and participation the following year. That was a plan for further information, not a 2027 launch announcement or a guaranteed beta.

The reveal also directed players to register interest on the official page. That invitation did not by itself grant test access.

Our separate engine, world and game-family articles explain parts of this same reveal. They are not separate official announcements. The current overview brings together subsequent confirmed information as it becomes available, including the distinctions between RS4 and other RuneScape projects.