RuneScape Developer Responded to Players' Backlash Over Recent Survey

A few days earlier, Jagex sent a survey to random players to "explore how they value different membership features and combinations." The survey was hinting at new features in the game support, including new subscription tiers. Players were discontent with the new implications and expressed their opinions online. 

Reportedly, one of the points that sparked the negative reaction was the idea of splitting memberships and the potential increase in subscription prices. Now, membership can apply to both Old School Runescape and Runescape 3, while the new proposal suggests that the membership would only apply to one of the titles. The joint membership giving access to the two games might still be available via a more expensive subscription option. However, players have shared screenshots showing an option of a basic one-month membership for $10.99 for only one of the two games. 

Other implications featured in the survey included the integration of ads, reduced AFK timers, mobile-exclusive game access, and "enhanced player support" providing players with personalized support updates. You can check out this Reddit post providing a thorough overview of what was in the survey.

As a response, Jagex has issued a statement with feedback to the community reaction. "We've seen your feedback, concerns, and criticisms, and we want to provide clarity on its purpose and some of the information contained within." The developer pointed out that the survey does not represent a finalized plan for the proposed modifications: "It is not a list of planned changes – it's a research tool designed to help us understand what you, the players, value most in your membership."

The developer called surveys touching controversial topics a "safeguard," helping to identify unpopular ideas at the early stages: "One of the reasons we include controversial or polarising topics in surveys is because they provide valuable insights into what players truly like, dislike, and feel strongly about. Great community management isn’t just about listening to what players want; it’s also about being open to exploring uncomfortable topics so that we can make informed, player-driven decisions."

Jagex also said that they are exploring ideas of cheaper memberships and expanded packages and are evaluating "how players value access to both RuneScape and Old School RuneScape."

As for the advertisements addition, the developer stated that there are "no plans to include ads in the base membership or to make ad-supported options a significant part of the game." Also, the devs noted that the idea of shorter AFK timers was criticized by the community, and they are considering that feedback.

Read Jagex's response here and don't forget to join our 80 Level Talent platform and our new Discord server, follow us on Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, Telegram, TikTok, and Threads, where we share breakdowns, the latest news, awesome artworks, and more.