RuneScape is one of the longest running and most popular free-to-play games in the world.
The fact you can have a good experience with it without spending a cent has meant it's proven particularly popular with teens and tweens over the years, and the UK-based developer Jagex has certainly been no slouch on ensuring that the game moves with the times. While it's never already been the best looking, most impressive MMO on the market, it's clearly recently been doing something right, as its player population has only continued to grow as the years have passed. Its low system requirements and browser-based nature also mean that pretty much anyone -- even those with aged, low-spec computers -- can get in on the action.
Now, the RuneScape game has been updated to its third major version -- fifth incarnation overall -- since its launch back in 2001. RuneScape 3, as the new version is called, promises to provide not only enhancements to the overall look as well as feel of the game, but also to allow its players to enjoy an experience that they, in part, help to define.
Central to the new incarnation of the game is the ongoing dynamic event known as the Battle of Lumbridge. All players who aren't actively involved in the game's initial tutorial will find themselves transported to Lumbridge on their next login, and the battle will begin. Players may swear allegiance to one associated with two different factions, and are then able to collect special "Divine Tears" items through either PvP combat or levelling up their skills. These Tears support their faction's war effort, and paying members will be able to acquire more of them per day than free players. After ten weeks, a winner will be declared, and also the ongoing Runescape 3 Gold plot from the RuneScape universe will continue accordingly.