“It’s impossible to downplay the significance of this update,” stated Mark Ogilvie, RuneScape’s lead designer.  “A rework of the combat system has been the most requested update from our community, and thousands of man hours have gone into developing a more fluid, interactive and tactical combat system. The Evolution of Combat update will fundamentally change the way people play and view RuneScape forever.”

Due to the game-changing nature of the release, RuneScape members will have the opportunity to be among the first to trial the new system with a limited access closed beta; the first in the game’s history. Beta registration will open to all RuneScape members on 1st June in preparation for the first beta entry on 26th June. The beta will run from 26th June until September and will allow testers the exclusive chance to preview the expansion before the rest of the world.

Through the Evolution of Combat, RuneScape has undergone the most significant change in its 11-year history. Rumours and speculation have been rife among the RuneScape community as players have tried to guess just what this exciting new content will contain. With the developers promising a totally revolutionary change to the game – upping the level of immersion and player involvement while, critically, retaining the features and overall charm that have made the browser-based adventure so popular – players have been rushing to sign up for the chance to take part.

“The Evolution of Combat update is the biggest change we’ve ever made in RuneScape’s long history and we’re incredibly excited to finally let our players take part.” commented Mark Ogilvie, RuneScape’s Lead Designer. “We really wanted to make our conflict game play more about the actual art of combat, so we’ve added amazing abilities which will give the player a wealth of choices to use in PvE and PvP combat, and the way those abilities relate to each other will bring a completely new sense of tactical depth to the game. We’ve also made huge improvements to the look and sound of combat, meaning the entire game has become a far more gritty, visceral and adrenaline pumping experience. “

Speaking about the beta, Mark Ogilvie continued, “We have always valued the views and feedback our community which is why we are so excited to be launching this game-changing update with a members’ beta. By introducing this update with a limited-access beta, we are able to interact with our community in a completely new way and offer our members the chance to try the new features first, helping to shape the future of one of the most important elements of the game. I know players won’t want to miss out on the chance to take part in this exclusive opportunity, so be sure to register your interest when registration opens on 1st June.”