RuneScape Removes Auras System
The fantasy MMO RuneScape has announced the removal of auras, shifting their benefits to in-game items instead. This marks a major change to character customization and strategy, requiring players to adapt to new systems for enhancing their avatars' abilities. The update is designed to streamline gameplay and ensure balance, especially for competitive and endgame content.
- The auras system was tied to the Members Loyalty Programme, introduced on June 28, 2011, which awarded "Loyalty Points" to players for consecutive months of paid subscription. This system was criticized for being time-gated, making new players feel disadvantaged as it could take years to accumulate enough points for top-tier auras. - Developer Jagex stated the removal is part of a "Road to Restoration" initiative aimed at improving the game's long-term health by reducing "unhealthy gameplay." The company acknowledged that auras pressured players into activity during specific one-hour windows and contributed to the feeling of "dailyscape," where players feel obligated to log in daily to complete routine tasks. - While many aura benefits will be transferred to other in-game items, some are being removed entirely. For example, the effects of the "Penance" and "Vampyrism" auras are planned to be moved to items like god books or scrimshaws, while combat auras like "Berserker" and "Mahjarrat" are being phased out, with their power intended to be integrated into players' base character stats. - Skilling-related aura effects are also being moved to new sources. For instance, many skilling buffs will be consolidated into a renamed "Totem of the Skiller" on the island of Anachronia, and the "Green Fingers" farming aura effect may become a reward from the Dungeoneering skill. - The dedicated aura slot on the equipment interface will be completely removed. Cosmetic effects from certain auras will be preserved and moved to a new "Visual Effects" category within the player's wardrobe. - Following the announcement, Jagex has not yet confirmed what will happen to the millions of unspent Loyalty Points that players have accumulated. The company has stated it is figuring out the future of the loyalty store and will provide updates when available.
