Jagex Unveils Unreal Engine MMO RuneScape 4 Alongside Franchise Overhaul

Jagex has announced a fourth mainline entry in its fantasy franchise under the working title RuneScape 4. Unveiled at RuneFest 2026 at the NEC in Birmingham, the upcoming MMORPG marks the studio's first mainline shift away from its proprietary RuneTek engine to Epic Games' Unreal Engine.

A 1:31 teaser trailer showcased adventurers and dragons in the continent of Ashenfall during the Sixth Age. Jagex stated the project aims to bring Gielinor to life in Unreal Engine by pairing modern design tools with the community-led structure developed over the franchise's 25-year history. Dragon riding and aerial combat will serve as central gameplay pillars.

From Survival Expansion to Standalone MMO

RuneScape 4 originated as an expansion concept titled Shadows of Ashenfall for RuneScape: Dragonwilds, initially planned for a 2027 window. Early prototypes led the team to broaden the project's scope into an independent release.

"When we saw the very first prototypes and read the designs that they'd brought together, we realized that the game direction of all of this pointed at a completely different scope," said Jesse America, executive producer of Dragonwilds. "We came to the realization that it essentially would be an MMO, and that it deserved its own game." America added that the project will be developed across the entire studio rather than by an isolated sub-team.

Jagex confirmed the new MMO will not replace existing titles. Instead, it will operate concurrently alongside RuneScape, Old School RuneScape, and Dragonwilds. A final title, supported platforms, and a release date have not been announced, with Jagex indicating a launch is still a few years away as it prepares for early community co-development.

RuneScape Reignited and Plugin API

Jagex also detailed near-term updates for existing players, led by RuneScape Reignited, a permanent new character type launching December 2, 2026.

Reignited introduces an isolated, fresh economy and separate hiscores, with no paid microtransaction progression. All Reignited characters will receive 10 days of free members' content access from December 2 to December 12, 2026, alongside the rollout of an Adventure Guide and Remastered Journey update.

Ahead of Reignited, Jagex will release its official RuneScape Plugin API in October 2026.

Animated Series Adaptation

Beyond the game client, Jagex announced an animated adaptation set in Gielinor, partnering with content creator Charlie White (MoistCr1TiKaL) and production company Lyrical Media through Lyrical Animation. Release timing, format, distributor, and storyline specifics remain unannounced.