Old School Runescape has, as the title suggests, been around for quite a while, starting all the way back in 2001. There are many reasons that players continue to play RuneScape, but the graphics probably aren't on the list. This may explain why there was such a controversy about developer Jagex shutting down a RuneScape HD mod--and why Jagex recently retracted its decision and decided to collaborate with the modder.
The RuneLite HD mod was created by a modder known as 117, who spent about two years working on it before Jagex shut down the project the day before it was scheduled for release. Reportedly, Jagex also had plans to create an HD version of RuneScape and wanted the official version to be the only version. However, in the wake of significant criticism from fans, Jagex has relented and proposed an alternate solution--117 and Jagex will be collaborating to ensure the RuneLite HD mod remains consistent with Jagex's vision of the game.
Apparently, the two will be working together to make RuneLite HD available free to all players until Jagex releases its own official version of RuneScape HD. 117 stated on their official Twitter account that this team-up is not a compromise--rather, it's something they had dreamed of while working on this project. Despite RuneScape's age, it remains incredibly popular, and updated graphics will likely bring even more attention to the game.
Reportedly, 177's RuneLite HD mod is now set to be made freely available on September 13. The delay is apparently so that Jagex will be able to add more functionality and RuneScape fan favorite features to the mod, including more messaging, expectations about specs, and compatibility. Additionally, 117 will be using the time to build a way to capture bug reports--always an important addition to an official mod, which RuneLite HD appears to have become.
As of this writing, fans appear to be happy that Jagex has changed its mind. There seems to be renewed interest in the future of RuneScape, with one fan joking that a meme using current RuneScape graphics should be remade in HD once the mod is released. One Twitter user noted that, while fans may be inclined to criticize Jagex's decisions, it's impressive that the developer was willing to admit it was wrong and change how it addressed the RuneScape HD mod issue. It remains to be seen if the implementation of the RuneLite HD mod will impact fan opinion.
Old School RuneScape is available now on Mobile and PC.