Getting started in RuneScape is a quick and easy process. Within a few minutes you can create an account and start playing the game!


The first thing you'll need is a new character to play! You can create yourself a new account by clicking here and clicking the "Create a Free Account" button. Once you've done that, you can come back here to continue the guide.


You play the game by clicking the 'Play RuneScape' link from the RuneScape main page. The initial download process will then start. During the download a grey security box will pop up.

You will be asked 'Do you want to install and run RuneScape?'

You should check the box that appears next to 'Always trust content from Jagex Ltd' and then click 'Yes'.

This will take you into the game where you can select different detail modes or worlds, or just log in to play straight away. We recommend you try the high detail mode first. If you have problems with the high detail mode, try the low detail version by selecting it on the log-in screen.

You will then be presented with an interface to set up your character, as shown on the left:

Here you will be presented with a wide variety of options for your character and what they look like. You can keep adjusting this as much as you like in this interface, or you can simply click 'Preset' to be given a previously generated character. Later, you may pay some characters in-game to change your look if you decide you'd prefer a different haircut, clothes or even gender. Click here to read about changing your look in-game.

Once you have finished you should click the 'Confirm' button, which will launch your character into the opening quest, Unstable Foundations, where some friendly and not-so-friendly citizens of RuneScape await you.


Your character will begin their RuneScape life in a darkened cellar. Here you will be introduced to the basics of playing RuneScape. You will be taken through a variety of activities, including combat, navigation, Mining, Woodcutting and much more.

This should only take about 15 minutes to complete. When you've finished, your character will be free to explore Lumbridge, and your RuneScape adventures can truly begin!

For more information on what you can do when you first enter RuneScape and how you can do it, please see the Beginners' Guide section.

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