Old School RuneScape launched Hardcore Worlds on November 4, 2026, introducing a permanent mode where characters have one life and no respawns. The worlds run separately from the main game, with death forcing players to choose between starting over and leaving the mode.
The MMORPG has been running since 2013, built on a snapshot of RuneScape from 2007. Its open-world structure includes 24 skills, 140+ quests, and PvP combat. Hardcore Worlds bring the single-life restriction to the full game, including its upcoming content.
What happens when a Hardcore character dies?
A death in Hardcore Worlds brings the character to the Reaper.
The transfer option means a character's death does not have to erase all their progression. It does, however, end that character's current Hardcore run. Starting again within Hardcore Worlds requires the reset option.
The Reaper in Hardcore Worlds
“Hardcore Worlds gives our most fearless players a way to take on the full game with everything on the line,” said Old School RuneScape creative director Kieren Charles.
Trading remains, with a separate economy
Hardcore Worlds retain trading and access to the Grand Exchange, but their economy is separate from the main game's. Players can trade within the Hardcore environment without joining the main game's economy.
XP gains and drop rates remain unchanged. Its defining change is the consequence of death, while the familiar game features remain available.
Players planning their next skill or quest can browse the Old School RuneScape guides hub for help with the wider game.
Reaper's Raffle offers real-world prizes
The Reaper's Raffle and World First rewards also began on November 4. Completing tasks set by the NPC Death earns entries into the raffle, giving players a chance to win physical prizes through their in-game activities.
The announced prizes include:
- Skilling pins.
- Skateboard decks.
- A Starforge PC bundle.
- A Godwars Replica collection.
- An exclusive Death NPC trophy.
Task completion earns a raffle entry, not a guaranteed prize. The rewards accompany the launch, while Hardcore Worlds itself is a permanent addition.
Old School RuneScape is available on PC, Steam, iOS, and Android, with cross-platform play and progression between PC and mobile.
