Exciting news! Later this week, we’re adding the C++ Client to the Jagex Launcher, making it more widely available than ever before!
For the last couple of years, we’ve been steadily updating the C++ Client with loads of cool features like Ground Item Indicators, XP Trackers, increased Draw Distance, and more – and now all of that is available for anyone using the Jagex Launcher, Steam, or the Mobile version of the game.
Now the keen-eyed among you will notice that none of these features are available on the Java version of OSRS – so where does this update leave the Java client?
So, as of later this week, we’ll no longer be offering the Java client as the standard client.
The C++ Client is the standard we want to set for the future, so there’s no point in us continually updating outdated technology. From now on, we’re considering the C++ Client the default client. New players will be prompted to download the Jagex Launcher and launch the C++ version of the game from there.
The Legacy Java Client will no longer be offered as a download from the Jagex Launcher, although you can still download it here.
Please note that although the Legacy Java Client has not and will not receive enhanced client improvements (Ground Item Indicators, Tile Markers, the Clue Helper, etc), it will still be able to run the latest game updates and Legacy Client users will still be able to enjoy all the game’s newest content like new Quests, Minigames, QoL Improvements, etc.
At the end of the day, this probably won’t have a big impact on most of you – as you can keep playing on your existing approved clients.
From this week onwards, you’ll see the following client options in the Jagex Launcher:
- New Official Client: This is the C++ Client and the one that will continue to receive client updates and improvements.
- RuneLite: One of our approved 3rd Party Clients that you can download and access via the Launcher.
- Legacy Java Client: This client is the one currently offered via Jagex Launcher. This client will not receive any client improvements going forward and this option will ONLY appear if you already have the Java Client installed on your device.
We’ll be using the terms above to address each client going forward.
Speaking of which, we imagine some of you are concerned about how they’ll be affected by this change. To make it clear, the RuneLite and HDOS experience should not be affected at all, and players still have our approval to use these clients.
We will however continue to improve the New Official Client with similar features to those found on other approved clients. We know players really appreciate these additions and our goal here is to make the Old School RuneScape experience an enjoyable one, no matter which client you use to play.
Those of you who’ve not yet experienced the wonders of the New Official Client will have the perfect excuse to try it out later this week. Be sure to let us know what you think!
You can also discuss this update on our official forums, on the 2007Scape subreddit, the Steam forums, or the community-led OSRS Discord in the #gameupdate channel. For more info on the above content, check out the official Old School Wiki.
The Old School Team.