Jagex has acted on feedback for Fresh Start Worlds in RuneScape and Old School RuneScape.
Jagex Changes Up Runescape’s Fresh Start Worlds
Written by Ollie Bradley at 09/01/2022, 05:31 AM
When Jagex announced that it was bringing fresh start servers to RuneScape and Old School RuneScape, the reaction was...mixed. Because while the idea of starting afresh sounds fun on paper, players were quick to point out that membership holders will then have to pay for a brand new membership.
Fresh start worlds in RuneScape are a fairly self explanatory concept. But the overall idea is to hit the big red 'reset' button for all players, allowing brand new and veteran players to experience Gielinor as if from day one.
It will also allow them to attempt world-firsts and hiscores with a clean sheet - a factor that some disgruntled Reddit users believe is the primary motive behind the Fresh Start Worlds in RuneScape as it will tempt vets into paying for another membership as they strive for a bonafide hiscore. And they're not alone in their pessimism.
"Imagine not polling this" read one comment. "See you guys in falador" read another, referencing the go-to in-game protest spot for players. "Jagex boosting subscription numbers prior to selling the company again." Us MMO gamers can be a cynical bunch.
But Jagex wasn't content with letting the backlash slide, and when they said they'd take feedback on board, it looks like they delivered. Because Fresh Start Worlds in RuneScape will now allow players to purchase memberships with Bonds, which can be acquired in-game.
But the membership fee isn't the only change Jagex is making. The Fresh Start Worlds were also set to introduce an XP boost, which has now been rebalanced. Fresh Start Worlds exclusive cosmetics and rewards will also be made available to other servers at some point in the future.
The Fresh Start Worlds will now launch on RuneScape on September 26 while they will join Old School RuneScape in October. Fresh Start Worlds will only be around for a limited time, although characters made and levelled in them can later be merged with main accounts.
All in all, we can't help but feel a little pity for Jagex if their intentions were true. But at least by providing these changes to the Fresh Worlds, they will be offering the best of both worlds.