What is Dragonwilds from RuneScape?

RuneScape has been a cornerstone of fantasy gaming, known for its classic MMORPG style and beloved skill progression system. But in 2025, Jagex took a bold step in a fresh direction with Dragonwilds, a brand-new open-world survival game set in the RuneScape universe. 

And it’s not just a spin-off—it’s an entirely different adventure. Gone are the trading hubs of Grand Exchange and static quests; instead, you're thrown into a wild, dragon-infested continent where survival, cooperation, and creativity take center stage.

If you've ever wondered what is Dragonwilds, and how it fits into the broader RuneScape lore, you're in for a treat. In this article, we break down what Dragonwilds is, explore its key features, and explain why it might just be your next favorite game.

What is Dragonwilds?

Dragonwilds RuneScape is an open-world, cooperative survival crafting game launched in Early Access on April 15, 2025, and it represents a new chapter in the RuneScape universe. 

Developed by Jagex, the game ditches the typical MMORPG format in favor of something more hands-on and immersive. It’s set in Ashenfall, a previously unexplored continent where dragons have begun to stir, and players find themselves stranded and fighting to survive.

At its core, Dragonwilds blends traditional survival gameplay—think gathering resources, crafting, building shelters—with the iconic skill progression system that RuneScape fans know and love. 

Add in a touch of high fantasy and ancient magic, and you’ve got a rich, lore-filled sandbox that feels both familiar and entirely new.

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Dragonwilds Key Features

Let’s take a closer look at what makes Dragonwilds stand out:

Setting: The Forgotten Continent of Ashenfall

You’re not in Gielinor anymore. Ashenfall is a wild and untamed land, steeped in forgotten magic and dominated by ancient dragons. 

It’s a place where every day is a battle to stay alive—weathering the elements, defending your base, and uncovering dark secrets buried beneath the ash.

Survival Meets RuneScape

While it includes core survival mechanics like resource gathering, crafting, and shelter building, Dragonwilds is deeply infused with RuneScape DNA. 

Players use magic spells for survival, level up skills, and interact with familiar NPCs and items such as the abyssal whip or the anti-dragon shield.

Co-op Gameplay

You can go it alone or team up with up to four friends. Whether you're fending off a dragon attack or constructing a massive base, the game is designed to reward teamwork and strategic play.

Skill System and Magic

Dragonwilds integrates a progression system inspired by RuneScape, where players can level up skills like woodcutting, mining, and combat. 

There’s also a magical layer—utility spells used for crafting, skilling, and surviving against magical threats.

Advanced Base Building

Inspired by survival giants like Valheim, the building system in Dragonwilds is flexible and detailed. 

Rotate, elevate, and customize every aspect of your shelter to turn it into a true fortress.

Dragon Queen & Legendary Creatures

The ultimate challenge? Survive long enough to confront the Dragon Queen, a powerful force at the heart of Ashenfall. 

Along the way, you’ll battle all sorts of mythical beasts that test your combat and building skills alike.

Community-Driven Development

From alpha testing to full release, Jagex is working closely with players. 

The development roadmap evolves based on feedback, meaning the community has a real voice in shaping Dragonwilds' future.

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Dragonwilds Game Review: A Fresh Survival Fantasy

Let’s talk about gameplay. Dragonwilds wastes no time in impressing both combat-hungry adventurers and meticulous home-builders alike.

For survival fans who thrive on construction, Dragonwilds offers creative freedom that most early-access games lack. Want to build a multi-story base with unique roof lines? You can. 

Prefer to tuck away a cozy nook in a cliffside? Absolutely. Even advanced touches like roof valleys, half-wall trims, and pillar-based support systems make the building experience feel polished from the get-go.

Combat-wise, the thrill of facing mythical beasts like fire-breathing dragons gives the game urgency. You’re not just building for fun—you’re preparing for war. 

And the magic system gives players unique tools, like flying while building or magically repairing structures, to aid in both defense and aesthetics.

All of this is layered with RuneScape nostalgia—familiar NPCs, legendary gear, and deep lore ensure that longtime fans feel right at home in this strange, new world.

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Conclusion

Dragonwilds isn’t just another survival game—it’s a love letter to RuneScape fans and a bold new experience for gamers who crave fantasy and freedom. 

With its blend of magical combat, intricate base-building, and classic RuneScape progression, Dragonwilds RuneScape is setting a new standard for survival games. 

Whether you're here for nostalgia or the challenge, Ashenfall promises a wild ride—and maybe a dragon or two to slay along the way.

So, what is Dragonwilds? It’s survival, it’s fantasy, and it’s RuneScape like you’ve never seen before.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Dragonwilds?

Dragonwilds is a new open-world survival crafting game from Jagex set in the RuneScape universe. It focuses on co-op gameplay, skill leveling, and fantasy combat.

Is Dragonwilds connected to RuneScape?

Yes. Dragonwilds takes place in the RuneScape universe and features familiar elements such as skill systems, iconic items, and magical abilities.

How many players can play Dragonwilds?

Dragonwilds supports 1 to 4 players in cooperative multiplayer mode.

When was Dragonwilds released?

Dragonwilds entered Early Access on April 15, 2025.

What makes Dragonwilds different from other survival games?

Its integration of RuneScape’s skill progression, lore, and magical utility spells sets it apart from typical survival titles.