RuneScape is a fantasy MMORPG developed and published by Jagex, released originally in January 2001. RuneScape can be used as a graphical browser game, implemented on the client-side in Java, and incorporates 3D rendering. 

RuneScape takes place in the world of Gielinor, a medieval fantasy realm divided into different kingdoms, regions, and cities.Players can travel throughout Gielinor via a number of methods including on foot, magical spells, or charter ships.Each region offers different types of monsters, resources, and quests to challenge players. The game's fictional universe has also been explored through a tie-in video game on another of its maker's websites, FunOrb, Armies of Gielinor, and the novels Betrayal at Falador,Return to Canifis,and Legacy of Blood.

RuneScape does not follow a linear storyline; rather, players set their own goals and objectives. Players can choose to fight non-player character monsters, complete quests, or increase their experience in the available skills. Players interact with each other through trading, chatting, or by participating in mini-games and activities, while others require cooperative or collaborative play.

The 27 skills in RuneScape enable players to perform various activities within the game, allowing for interaction with NPCs, the environment and other players. Players gain experience points in a skill when they use it. As the skill level rises, the ability to retrieve better raw materials and produce better products increases, as does the experience awarded if the player uses new abilities.The total skill level of a player partly symbolises the player's status in the game and subscribers with a high total level can appear on the official high scores.Upon reaching the highest available level in a skill, members may buy a special cape to symbolise their achievement.