Old School RuneScape (OSRS) is one of the longest-running MMORPGs, with a unique history and a dedicated player base. Whether you're brand new or returning after years away, getting started can feel overwhelming. This guide walks you through RuneScape gold the basics of OSRS, from account creation to early training goals, so you can set yourself up for long-term success. Sufficient RuneScape gold will help you prepare better.

Creating Your Account and Choosing a Client

To play OSRS, you'll need a Jagex Account. This system provides improved security, two-factor authentication, and the ability to manage multiple characters. You can create one through the official RuneScape website or by downloading the Old School RuneScape app.

On PC, you'll also need a client. The three main options are:

Official Client – simple and supported directly by Jagex.

HDOS – adds high-definition visuals.

RuneLite – the most popular choice, with plugins like Quest Helper that streamline your gameplay.

If you're just starting, RuneLite is highly recommended.

The Basics: Tutorial Island

Your journey begins on Tutorial Island, where you'll learn movement, skilling, and combat. OSRS runs on a tick-based system, with game actions processed every 0.6 seconds. Controls are point-and-click, but you can use hotkeys for faster navigation.

Once you graduate from Tutorial Island, you'll land in Lumbridge-the central hub for most beginners. From here, the world is open, and you can pursue any path you choose.

Combat Styles and Training

OSRS features three main combat styles:

Melee – Close-range fighting using swords, scimitars, and heavy armor.

Ranged – Bows, crossbows, darts, and throwing knives for distance fighting.

Magic – Offensive spells, teleportation, and utility abilities.

Combat is influenced by RNG (random number generation). Your accuracy and damage depend on your stats, gear, and enemy defenses. Higher-level bosses often require swapping prayers, dodging attacks, and switching combat styles on the fly.

Training Tips

Melee: Scimitars are ideal early weapons. Train with the best metal armor you can equip, and aim for quests like Waterfall Quest to quickly boost Attack and Strength.

Ranged: Free-to-play players can use bows and arrows; members unlock faster options like darts and knives. Start with leather armor, then move to dragonhide.

Magic: Fire Strike is a reliable early spell. Members gain access to a wider variety of training options, including teleportation and alchemy.

Beginner Training Spots

For free-to-play players:

Levels 1–20: Cows near Lumbridge-good XP and valuable hides.

Levels 20–30: Frogs in Lumbridge Swamp-higher health, steady combat training.

Levels 30–50: Flesh Crawlers in the Stronghold of Security-aggressive monsters, minimal effort.

Levels 50+: Ogress Warriors-excellent money-making with rune drops.

For members:

Early Game: Rock Crabs (Rellekka) and Sand Crabs (Zeah) are efficient, low-effort training spots up to around level 70.

Mid Game: Transition to Slayer tasks for profit and combat XP.

Quests: The Foundation of Progression

Quests aren't just storylines-they unlock powerful items, training methods, and shortcuts. For example:

Waterfall Quest – Boosts Attack and Strength to level 30 instantly.

Druidic Ritual – Unlocks Herblore.

Rune Mysteries – Unlocks Runecrafting.

Many players follow an optimal quest order guide, saving hours of grinding. Completing Recipe for Disaster for the powerful Barrows Gloves is one of the biggest early-to-mid game milestones.

Skills and Skilling

OSRS features 23 skills, with level 99 as the cap. Skills range from combat-focused (Attack, Strength, Magic) to gathering (Fishing, Mining, Woodcutting) and production (Smithing, Herblore, Fletching).

Free-to-play players have access to a limited set of skills, while members unlock advanced ones like Slayer, Farming, Agility, and Construction.

Fishing & Cooking: Great for food and steady AFK training.

Woodcutting & Firemaking: Simple but slow, with unique minigames like Wintertodt for faster training.

Slayer: Assigns monster tasks, combining combat training with profits.

Construction: Expensive but unlocks a Player-Owned House with teleports, altars, and utilities.

Each skill contributes to buy RS gold your progression, and many unlock new money-making methods.