Beginners' Guide

New and returning players will begin on Tutorial Island where they'll be met by Reginald. He'll explain the basic mechanics of the game, including how to move the player character and the camera.

First up, you'll need to know how to get around.The Minimap is the adventurer's best friend. As well as showing you the surrounding area, it has two essential functions:Home teleport

‍This returns you to any lodestone (circular stone plinths found in most major cities) that you've visited and activated. Note that this can't be done during combat, though.

‍World MapThe best way to find your next adventure. Click the World Map button, then use the filtering options on the left of the World Map interface to find the type of content you're most interested in.

RuneScape has a classless progression system and a vast, open world. It can be hard to decide what to do first.If you ever need a nudge in the right direction, the Path System is for you. It will point you to content based on your choice of three categories: questing, combat and non-combat skills.

Click the Compass icon, then select the Path tab to get started.

Daily Challenges are another great way to start levelling up and learning about the array of content RuneScape offers. These tasks can often be completed in as little as 20 minutes, and get you a nice chunk of XP to boot.

Speak to Challenge Mistress Fara in Burthorpe to find out more.

The joy of RuneScape is the freedom it offers. Be an intrepid quester, a mighty warrior, a deft artisan...or all of those things!

Got the hang of the free game? Consider upgrading to membership to unlock everything RuneScape has to offer.