Fey_Warrior

The person referred to was actually the former European CEO of PayPal, as well has having held a number of other previously significant positions. I believe it shows how much recognition MMOs, like RuneScape, have gained recognition as a major way people interact online. Seeing how PayPal has improved dramatically over the years from it's early days as a Californian start-up, I feel that if this CEO had a hand in that, he's likely to help Jagex and us, it's customers, in a similar way. So in my view given the experience this CEO has seems likely to ensure Jagex becomes more focussed upon what us players want. Jagex have been seeking constantly improve the game since the introduction of current version RuneScape (once called RuneScape 2). This means our game is under constant redevelopment, including the graphics and the underlying game-engine. There's a thread in the Tip.It forums (run by Bobbington) that shows how these graphical improvements are ongoing. What we as players can contribute is to continually give the the most considered and well thought out feedback we can muster. While we're all within our rights to complain about problems in our game, if we can go beyond our own personal experience, and integrate views and feedback from other players I'm sure we can have a much greater influence on the game. Looking at how others play the game, and how game-play from the now millions players is affected even by small changes may help us give more precise feedback, that actually will help Jagex improve things. To top it off, that such a reputable person in the Internet Industry also would want to work at Jagex also shows our growing game is likely to have a long and promising future. Regards, Fey.

Hi mEb, I don't know as many JMods who play as Bobbington does, but I do know a few who play the game on their own personal accounts like any other player. Obviously we can't tell you who they are since that'd be violating their privacy, but rest assured there are definitely staff at Jagex who are avid gamers, and keen players of RuneScape. Obviously none of Jagex staff on while they're on their player accounts can tell you they work for Jagex, since they can't do that for obvious reasons (it being against Jagex policy). This means it's possible you have a player on your friends list, who you chat to everyday could work for Jagex, but it's impossible for them to tell you. This means too that they do get regularly bothered by Randoms like any other player. As well I've seen Jagex Moderator accounts often abducted by Randoms so they're not immune in anyway from these events. So if you don't like Randoms, feel free to give your feedback to Jagex upon how you feel they could be improved as a feature of the game. For many reasons too numerous to name here I doubt they'll ever be removed from the game. While I do feel that Randoms while High Alching have become very common, maybe that has a good-side effect by slowing down the amount of G.P. being feed into the RuneScape economy. I don't know if that's at all relevant to their current frequency in the game though. I've also heard players saying Randoms like the Genie, and the Classroom are actually good randoms due to the X.P. bonuses they give. Maybe it might help Jagex more if we can suggest ways to improve the value of a Random event to us, if they aren't going to remove or decrease the frequency of them. Regards, Fey.

Hi nbeers990, Yes, if any player lie to another player about the dangers of the Wilderness in order to deprive them of their items, and there was clear intent this was in order to lure them into the Wilderness, then they can be reported under Rule 2 - Item Scamming. Rule 2 - Item Scamming Player's should always make it clear to others when inviting others in the Wilderness that going into the Wilderness to PK, or do any other task, there is always always a real risk that by going there a player can lose all the items they are carrying. I'd always tell any other player who accompanies me: "Don't take any items you are not prepared or cannot afford to lose. Being PKed can happen anywhere at any time in the Wilderness." I tell others that even if I have no intent to PK anyone or seek to go PKing other teams, since that advice applies at all times in the Wildy. From a sticky that was on PK-ing Forums: Obviously if you are PKed while you are PKing (even by your own team) you have already accepted the likely risk you may lose your items. Sadly some players still try and lie and deceive others about the risks of going there. Any form of luring into the Wilderness under 'false pretences' will remain a violation of that rule. Regards, Fey.

They say they market at what they think would be fun and the 13+ rule is there mainly for a law existing in the US. It's quite possible they do remove people from the game who are under 13 but it's hard to find out whether they are under 13 or not unless they admit to it in game. Not sure where you've got the information that they ban innocent people, I don't see how you can prove that unless you have access to the evidence that was presented to them. Players can lie to you to present Jagex in a bad way I wouldn't believe everyone when they say they are innocent. Not sure what the problem with Customer Support is but considering the amount of queries they get per day from 5 million players I think they do a good job. Not entirely sure why they became an affiliate of miniclip, that's exactly the type of people they don't want to be marketing at IE under 13 Americans. Hi Aquiel, I'm afraid I will concur Craven Image; banning players on the basis of age when they haven't violated any rules of the game would be unfair of Jagex. While players should not lie about their age, for their own safety and their parent's/guardian's piece of mind, it's not Jagex that determines at what age players can play; it's the parents/guardians who should be doing that. First off the Terms+Conditions if you read them state: Above quote from "Terms+Conditions" on RuneScape.com This means all players under 18 are required to have the permission of a parent or gurdian to make an account. The difference for preteens is they aren't allowed to create an account. Instead if a parent or guardian chooses, they may create an create an account for that player, and then to play alongside their preteen to ensure that preteen's safety. If Jagex believes any player under 18 may not have that permission they may terminate any account, but obviously since they don't knowingly collect demographic information from preteens they would not terminate an account solely on the basis of age; but only with evidence that a player did not have permission of a parent guardian. As they state in the T+C it's likely only if you can confirm you are the parent/guardian of that player would you be able to request an account be terminated. I know you have not suggested Aquiel, in any way, that any player should actively seek to out younger players due to their age; yet due to this pervasive misunderstanding of the terms & conditions sadly some players have sought to do so. Contrary to the mistaken belief about getting a player banned for admitting they're a preteen, any player extracting such information from another could be reported for harassment or soliciting personal details from another player. Players should be aware now that many governments around world are are taking a hard-line against Cyberbullying; as well as being very wary of anything that might appear like solicitation which can lead to more sinister intent. This is an issue that Jagex states on their website they're very aware and active in tackling. The bottom-line is that it's impossible to tell what intent of another player is, when they ask for personal details, especially if we don't know them in real-life. Jagex also have made it clear on their website, that they don't go around asking for account information (passwords, etc.) or other personally identifiable information in game. This is why asking for age or other personal details is only likely to cast suspicion upon why anyone would go around asking for such things in order to confirm another player's age. As well seeking out younger players (preteens) and haranguing them about their age would likely be seen as harassment by any parent or guardian playing alongside these younger players (they could be nearby) and they'd likely be very upset if they caught anyone doing that. I know I'd take a very dim view of any player I found harassing my younger family members who are respectful, capable & I believe mature players (in their attitudes) in RuneScape, and cause no trouble to anyone. I'm sure other parents and older relations would be similarly protective, if they found other players were trying to hound their younger family from the game. That said, the whole blow-up about so-called immature players supposedly ruining the game is a based a number of misunderstandings. The maturity of any player is not solely dictated by their age. I know many parents too who have younger players in the game, younger players whom behave with a high level of maturity towards others & obey the game rules without fail; ironically many of these younger players behave more maturely at times than some players 3 times their age. There are some players who exhibit behaviours that belies their supposed 'maturity' and give the impression that what the problem with this whole hoopla over age, is that irresponsible and rude players aren't "acting their age." That's because maturity is more dependant upon a person's attitude towards others, as well as being demonstrated by an their ability to be able to think for themselves to solve new problems as they arise. Sadly with the education systems we have nowadays, the inability of some players to think before they act is by far the greater problem. However, these things are not Jagex's fault. Although, I realise Aquiel, you did not initiate any of these problems, I am asking that you please understand why many younger players feel they are being treated unfairly because of these malicious rumours being spread about their age group. I know I am not alone among parents and guardians who feel these tirades against our younger RuneScape players are not encouraging a mature, nor respectful attitudes, in our community by anyone. If anything the laying of blame upon younger players in our community, is more likely due to some players' misdirected frustrations with their gaming experience. It's when this frustration is being directed at other players that damage is being caused to our game and our player community. Instead, I suggest, these players should ask themselves what are in-game features they truly have problem with, then go tell Jagex about those problem features, rather than targeting other players. I suspect some of these players complaining about our younger players would be upset too, if it was their family members being attacked by some irate player with a vendetta again preteens in the game. It seems apparent then, Jagex aren't allowed to collect age data of any preteen by law, so calls to 'ban' these younger players are not only misdirected but pointless. All those demands to do so seem to have achieved is the channelling unwarranted disdain against some very good and capable RuneScape players, who just happen to be younger than most. Right now there are real dangers to our community in the form of real-world Internet criminals. We see our governments and law enforcement agencies are beginning to respond now, to combat real threats to our gaming community. It's the infiltration of our game by these dangerous persons that should be a concern to every player and parent/guardian of every player. These are the real issues I feel we should be reminding Jagex about that could damage our game, rather than attempting to get Jagex to target those younger players. When it's these younger players whom need our care and protection since they are the vulnerable players in our game. A mature attitude from players would be: if you suspect a younger player is having trouble with orientating themselves in the game, to remind them of the basics of Internet Safety. * Remind them under no circumstances should they ever give out any personal details or information that might identify them or their family members outside of the game. * If you don't have the time, you can simply refer any player to the comprehensive list of things they shouldn't give-out in-game to any other player, by referring them to Rule 13 - Personal Details. We need inform our more vulnerable players about the help they can seek in game (Knowledge Base & Tutors), and to inform these players to always tell their parents/guardians about anyone they chat to in-game. It need not take more than a moment to truly make a difference to the overall safety and betterment of our community. Being helpful to inexperienced players should never require us to disrupt our game; yet it may make the real difference to another player's real safety and enjoyment of the game. Regards, Fey.

While MMO (Massively Multi-player Online) Game Developers can do their utmost to stop botters and RWT, they're currently bound by the same limitations in I.P. (Intellectual Property) laws and the lack of enforcement of Copyright in many countries like all other commercial companies (a lot depends on International Law and Trade Agreements). As well, previously breaking Terms of Service and EULA was seen a problem for the game developers, and was not seen to influence the real world. The time one can separate one's real world from the consequences of ones actions online is fast coming to an end however (if it hasn't already). Here's an example where a WoW player sponsored Class Action suit against a major Gold Seller. Player action on these matters is important in every MMORPG. The same goes for us reporting suspected bots as we see them in-game. Players taking positive action, and informing the companies that their games is essential part of the fight against bots. I'd say that claims RuneScape has the biggest problems are misleading. If anything there are bigger targets in the Industry. Even Blizzard who were previously less active against the issue, have taken a similar stance to Jagex, and so are now mass-banning accountsfor in-game spamming, botting and Real World Trading (RWTing). RWTing is reported a problem in every game that allows trading of items between players, and as I stated initially is currently exacerbated by the lack of consistent regulation between countries making legal action against those who violate the Terms of Service of an MMO more difficult. What's changing now though is an awareness that this isn't just a problem for online games. Governments are now becoming aware the trading in MMO virtual property has be come a channel for more dubious purposes. The very real possibility that this illegal trade in the I.P. of gaming companies, due to it's volume, is cloaking more nefarious activity is beginning to be understood. Due to the seriousness that these claims may be backed-up by real world incidents of criminal activity, I believe these issues are now being addressed by many gaming companies, even if it seems they weren't at first. However changing government regulation (now governments are increasingly aware of plethora of threats) means the MMO Industry as a whole is getting organised to fight these illegal activities in virtual worlds. They will do so knowing partly, that such RWTers (and the bots and 'sweat-shops' they run) that are obviously unpopular with a large part of their fan-base and paying subscribers, as well as soon being required by governments to take steps to combat at what is now being seen having real-world effects. A recent report from Symantec discuss the likely future threats to virtual worlds here in pod-cast, focussed on Massively Mult-player Online Worlds & Games. One can see for some time (in the RuneScape Knowledge Base) Jagex itself has been openly working with governments and law enforcement agencies around the world, in order to help protect players' personal safety. Now it's becoming apparent money laundering (turning them into physical money) and other illegal activities are becoming a serious concern, rule-breaking in all virtual worlds is going to become something may have real-life ramifications, since real-world criminal elements now may be involved in rule-breaking activity in virtual-worlds. Breaking the game rules, may even now, result in serious real world consequences, if real world malicious activity is being carried out in conjunction with that rule breaking in the game. I'm not sure it's possible to take these issues more seriously, now it's becoming apparent to Internet security companies and real-world governments are now aware that real-world criminal activity is now infiltrating our virtual gaming worlds. Government to police virtual worlds More than ever I feel these are issues if you wish to contact Jagex about, should you hear or see suspicious activity, they will be more than likely glad to get your feedback. Regards, Fey.

I train range as my primary combat skill. I've not personally found Javelins have useful for any specific purpose. I guess it's true not all weapons or items can be useful, so I treat them as a novelty item rather than a serious weapon to be use for training or serious combat. As I'm able to make my own Nature Runes, I do remember aching the last lot of Rune Javelins just to see if they're world keeping as a drop. They weren't. Maybe a few tweaks are in order. Regards, Fey

I didn't write the first letter...only the second. I didn't expect them to publish a "chicken feather" either. lol. Though I have used this site and read articles for quite some time. Thanks Tip.It for reading my letter. Thanks for submitting your letter though jp7725. It just goes to show how you don't need to be the strongest, richest or most accomplished player to contribute to other players' enjoyment of the game. Regardless, I enjoyed reading it. It's a timely reminder to take time to relax and enjoy each of our individual achievements. While it's great to share these moments in-game with friends, often one's own real life commitments, and the fact our in-game friends too have lives of their own means friends can't be there forever. Once again we stand on the Well of Voyage surrounded by the remnants of our enemies. All our efforts bring us to these endings alone wondering when we'll next feel the excitement and wonder of the unknown and unimaginable dangers of the darkness surrounding us. Or when, or if, we'll ever see the light on waters of the River Lum again. Regards, Fey.

1) Jagex & Rule-breakers: Obviously you don't see that Jagex dislikes rule-breakers as much as legitimate players do - anyone caught illegally using software to gain an advantage in the game is instantly banned. Jagex does not care for rule-breakers in their game and they will gladly welcome any reports and tip-offs on those that are breaking them. If you suspect a player is breaking Rule 7 - report that suspect silently and they will be queued to be investigated. They might not get banned overnight, but within a few days and up to 2 weeks. If they are found breaking the rules they will be removed. When they're banned all depends on how long the reporting queue is and when Jagex did their last mass ban on Rule 7 breakers. Jagex bans around 8k or more accounts a week (exact figures aren't published often) so it simply a matter of when, and not if these rule-breakers are banned. 2) Posting about Rule-Breaking & Scams: Sadly a lot of unscrupulous players do take advantage of players discussing tid-bits of glitches, bugs & scams on the forums. If all players knew how to be discrete and not give away information that could potentially be used to exploit the game or scam another player, then discussing it would likely be fine. Unfortunately, too many players go into detailing how-to-do-it, or how-it-was-done-to-them giving all the keys and an open door to rule-breaking. I don't discuss or detail glitches I find, or scams I uncover, even on fansite forums, as that could help people exploit the game. Besides, if one reads the pages describing on how to avoid scams, and you don't trade with dodgey players in dangerous locations in-game, most if not not nearly all scams can be avoided without helping the scammers. I'm sorry, but I fail to see what part of not helping rule-breakers by not giving them detailed schematics on how-to-break rules, is hard to understand? 3) Forum Moderators: Forum Moderators on the Offical RuneScape Forums, like all fansite forums are obligated to enforce all rules fairly, as given to them by the forum/board administrators. If you don't think they're doing their job then report them. Before you report them though, consider that the Administrators would be very busy people (as they would be on Tip.It too) and sending in false reports simply because you did not like a moderator decision, isn't going to make those running the forum very happy. On the other hand if you report a rogue moderator of course they'll be happy but most forum Administrators, including Jagex, are very careful to check up on and observe the temperament of moderators, before making a player a moderator. So by all means report bad moderators, but make sure that you've read the rules and understood why a moderator took their action, before you do. 4) Advertising on the RuneScape site: Advertising on their site helps fund development of the game. As a high traffic site, this means more money to fund more staff to improve and expand the game. Jagex is still a private company, which is run to build the game even bigger. I don't mind the advertisments personally. If you do see an advertisement that affects the performance of your computer or is offensive or inappropriate in any way - report it - since posting about it here isn't going to get it removed to be honest. Regards, Fey.

While I did appreciate the article, and that it's likely to provoke a lot of thoughtful debate (I actually will spend time reading all of this thread), I do agree that 'tracking' alignment, though with the ability to make amends (therefore change alignment) would make fore more realism. 'Realistic' game-play especially in terms of graphics, given RuneScape hasn't at least in recent times been the most compelling, is not the reason I suspect most would cite why they play RuneScape. This is why issues of game-play are very important. No matter what you're views on game-play, it's certainly something players should give feedback to Jagex about since that's a major reason for many to choose RuneScape over the competition. I'd love to get more feedback in-game on the alignment of my character, since I personally feel it such game features add important an dimension to what is meant to be an RPG. Regards, Fey.

Any chance of doing a low-cost and lower-levelled version of this guide? I currently don't have enough funds to risk loss of a single glory (I have way under 10) or even more than 1 or 2 sets of Black Dragon Hide (I've only got 3 sets) so low cost and low risk, in terms of items is the only way I can go about this. I've usually used Full Green Dragon Hide with Anti-Dragon Fire shield: Iron Bolts (very cheap to use in large numbers) Dorgeshuun Crossbow (with special to lower defence) Saradomin Symbol (prayer bonus) Boots of Lightness I started when I was 75+ range, and since the the Crossbow update this year those items are perfectly adequate for killing Green Dragons. It's useless for PK-ing but then having most of an inventory of bones or hides makes going into battle with a player with likely far more food pointless anyway. Given, we need at least 10 seconds to log, and we now can be interrupted at any time during our fights with the dragons, would you recommend running at any suspicious unknown or fast-incoming dot? Any feedback appreciated.

Holding young RuneScapers responsible for the various malaises affecting the game-play of others does not provide us with real solutions we may use to help improve the game. It does, however, provide a convenient way to absolve ourselves of having to take action or responsibility for our personal responses to problems we may have experienced due to other players. Before condemning misguided players we must ask ourselves: have we attempted yet to act as guides to how we ourselves would play the game? Taking positive action by informing these players how to help themselves learn how to play, is more likely to address an individual player's issues. Informing them about the the many levels of help, or simply offering an understanding ear we can achieve things that no amount of ranting can fix. It's also more likely to induce in these newer players the same mutual respect for other players, rather them teaching them that the only way to respond it to get angry and continue the never ending cycle of blame. And if not there is the Ignore list, and the ability to teleport away from annoying individuals. As well though there are always improvements to game features to be made, and I advocate strongly that players should be able express them. The focus should be though, on features Jagex can fix. Ranting about contentions which cannot be proven and I suspect are doubtful in their origins, that Jagex targets younger players, is less than helpful. While players may be entitled to this point of view, I have not seen any credible evidence that Jagex specifically targets a younger audience. The game has continued to been one of lower-graphical resolution in comparison to it's more expensive & system-resource-hungry competitors. It has always portrayed it medieval subject with self-effacing humour and emphasised the quirky over the serious. Basically there's always been a sense of fun in the game and this has not changed from what I've read or seen in additions to the game. As for the level of difficulty, this too is a matter of opinion, and I've not see any conclusive evidence that there has been a 'targeted' reduction in the level of difficulty in the game. It's always been relatively accessible. And protecting players and helping inexperienced players does not equal immaturity. If anything it equals ways to better save on unnecessary queries to Customer Support, and ways that experienced players can offer easy support by pointing out the help that's already available. I contend that, contrary to the thesis of this article, the worst threats to RuneScape at the present time are players whom know the rules, but continue to break them by scamming, real world trading or cheating in various ways. This deliberate rule breaking to me seems a far greater and more malicious threat than new players who haven't yet oriented themselves in the game. If anything 'real world trading' is a threat to all MMORPGs given the increasing amount of money to be made from that illegal activity and unregulated trade in real currency. There is serious concern currently being expressed by many governments and agencies that this trade is bringing real life criminal elements and threats into our game. Surely these are a far more serious problems than those that result from our not wanting to deal with immature players. By not seeking to have a positive effect, or else reporting the rule breakers we do abdicate actions that would address the issues, while simultaneously slating the next generation as the problem. Sorry, as I get older, the familiar refrain of holding the young responsible for our problems, or some other group, never addresses the root cause of issues. Sadly it's a popular refrain throughout history it seems, since it when proffered they seem like simple solutions: to type one group as the evil element that must be removed. Such seemingly 'simple' solutions are rarely practical however and in reality do little or nothing to address the 'real' causes of our problems. Regards, Fey.

Hi gpacX, While you are entitled to your views on this issue, it's an issue that's been decided. Impugning error on the part of Jagex or other players, though your won't to do so, does not make these tactics it fair-play or in the spirit of the game. It was clearly apparent some players utilised features of the Wilderness to entrap as well as deceive less knowledgeable players about the dangers in those areas. Those who deceived whether by omission or coaxing through deception, did so deliberately in order deprive many players of their items for their own personal again. In addition they did in such a widespread way, and with no regard for other players in the game, that this clearly became a problem for many players, even those who had not been victims of it. It's the broader reaction by the many players who had not been lured who reacted against it. The worst part of all those instances was that those who were victims of these tactics were in no way willing participants, nor did they wish to take part in, nor engage in the risk derived from this misuse of features Jagex's game. These instances were apparently enough of a problem to the community that it wished to send a clear message these tactics were not something Jagex should allow or tolerate. Jagex agreed and determined this misuse to be against their rules of the game. Some players may still wish to continue misuse features in the game to take items from other players through what ever means they deem should be possible. I suggest that it's unlikely such luring needs to be permitted, given as you pointed out, there are so many ways to make gold or items in the game, it's not affecting anyone's ability to play and accumulate ample wealth in the game. As for the experience of shared game-play - to argue that preventing such tactics is hurting the game seems contradictory. The tactics that were used were so widely unpopular among players in the community, not just among the victims, that Jagex saw fit to publish the clarification in detail, as well as applying fixes to the game. Arguments for Luring as part of the game, were as Andrew stated, 'not on' as it was not an intended or fair-use of those PvP features. For all these reasons such misuse of the Wilderness's PvP features, won't be made legal in the game to allow such a [bleep]e in Luring into the Wilderness again. While it may make you feel good to post like that against me here, it does not prove that fair-play should be compromised nor does it necessarily follow that the spirit of the game should be undermined by a few players being permitted again by the rules to begin luring in those ways. If you really wish to take this further you will need to take it up with Jagex. Posting angrily at me or about them here won't change anything. If you have a problem with this sticky, anything I've posted, or discussion on this thread then I suggest you inform Tip.It Moderators. I am merely another player here. So attempting to 'win-against' me here does nothing to win your apparent cause against Jagex or it's rules. Feel free to state your claims against me or call me what you wish; it really makes no difference to your arguments against Jagex's rules of the game. I made no claim as to the intelligence or lack thereof of any player. It was however clear to a larger number of players given the outcry that Luring was not something, many I suspect who would consider themselves intelligent players, wanted in their game. Regards, Fey.

Leaving ones items on the ground and deliberately failing to pick them up is a completely different scenario. Lying to another player in order to entrap them into a dangerous situation they would not otherwise go bares no similarity.

I utterly disagree with your points on this matter. This was an excellent decision by Jagex who took a stand against abhorrent treatment of players by other players in the game. Arguing for such scams to be permitted is the opposite of arguing for accountability of players in the game. Instead it places the emphasis on bullying and deceitful conduct over and above that mutual respect and common sense in game-play. It's common sense that players, unlike their characters in the game, are real people. Only by adopting the point-of-view of a complete solipsism, would it be possible to treat others with no regard nor awareness that they are real persons who also participate in the game. To believe such misconduct against other real people should be condoned, is simply fallacious diversion in an attempt to escape the consequences of abusive conduct towards other players. This form of abusive conduct was strongly rejected by all mature players in the game. If a small minority can only achieve success in-game by lying and deceiving others, than that's the reverse of seeking to test one's ability to play the game skilfully and test one's characters abilities legitimately against another's. It was the antithesis of fair-play, and was not tolerated as a legitimate form of game-play by the clear majority of players in our community, who strongly signalled to Jagex that it was unacceptable. This is why Luring others into dangerous locations under false pretences was clarified as also being against the rules, and correctly labelled as Item Scamming. It does not follow, then, that the clarification of Rule 2 was made solely for the reasons of protecting children. Simply put: no player, who was honest with themselves, liked the idea being mislead and lied to about the intentions of other players. As such, no player who acknowledged the base principle in Rule 2 could argue that seeking to deprive others of their items by deliberate lies was not at base: Item Scamming. Blaming the victim of a scam did not make such deliberate lies any less damaging to the game-play of other players or to the player community. Rather than enhancing game-play for all players, the tactics of lurers were doing a lot of harm to both the reputations of PKers, PK-ing Clans, and Non-PKers alike. If Jagex had not agreed, and clarified the rule, it's likely irreparable damage would've been done to RuneScape and it's player community. In fact, Rule 2 was in great jeopardy given it already included a base definition that deceptive conduct to deprive other players of items was Item Scamming. By clarifying that luring into dangerous locations in-game, while lying about the dangers involved in such lures, was also a scam it ensured the integrity of that rule was maintained. This does not affect legitimate PK-ing matches or the actions PKers or who all know the dangers involved. In fact players who now enter the Wilderness are more free than before now to seek fun and potential rewards for the risks involved in that form of game-play. It's only now that it's been clarified, that misconduct has been excluded as a legitimate form of game-play that there is a strong onus on the common sense and mutual respect between all players. All those now who now deliberately involve their characters in the risk of item loss as part of the game can do so without the stigma of Item Scamming. Any player that now that knowingly engages in PK-ing or enters the Wilderness for their own purposes in order to obtain the rewards located there, now knows that in doing so, there is a great risk of item loss due to PvP combat. That now cannot now be confused with the form of deceptive conduct that previously allowed luring into the Wilderness to escape the penalties of Item Scamming.

Hi CJH, I applaud your stance against players who break the rules and who show no regard for the game they share with other players. I'm afraid though, that what you've herd in regard to Jagex not being completely against this illegal trade, is a baseless accusation, and merely rumour. As some know eBay has delisted all Intellectual Property (IP) auctions, where that IP belongs to another agent or company: Further from the initial report from Slashdot above CNet reported that Edward Castronova, a professor of telecommunications at Indiana University and the author of Synthetic Worlds: The Business and Culture of Online Games, says the motivation behind eBay's move is not that simple. Apart from very limited exceptions, such as Linden Lab's "Second Life" and games like Sony's "EverQuest II" , or Entropia Universe, the majority of MMOs will not allow any trading of Items due to a plethora of real life issues and complications. As the eBay spokesperson commented elsewhere, though Second Life items can still be traded on eBay there is a real question as to whether Second Life can be considered a game. Increasingly governments and law enforcement are moving into it's "Second Life's" virtual space, which seems to back the analysis that any company that permits Real World Trading is not making a game, but an extension of the real world with associated financial, social, legal and criminal issues. Jagex clearly states in "Rule 12 - Real World Trading" it does not support the exchange of RuneScape Items or Gold for real world monies. So Jagex is adamantly against the sale of RuneScape Items & Gold, so I see no reason to give further credence to what is nothing more than rumours with no foundation. It makes no sense to claim such things when clearly it is not in the interest of the majority of these online game developers, including Jagex, to promote themselves as other than entertainment products for social gamers. Anyone who claims this trade has a legal status, or that Real Money Traders aren't violating Intellectual Property laws, not to mention the rules, are obviously intent on breaking these laws and rules. Looking reports of actual incidents of fraud in unregulated exchange of virtual items or currency reveals much more sinister under-tones of organised criminal activity. Already the Korean & Chinese governments are awake to the potential for illegal activity. In order to protect the online gaming industry Korea has introduced legislation against use of game exploits (inc. botting) violations of which can result in up to a $50,000 fine or 5 years jail. In China there has been prosecutions for 'virtual property theft'. And for those who do not take dangerous potential of such Cybercrime seriously, the estimated millions of dollars traded currently via 'virtual items' in many MMOGs are a perfect playground for gangs who already operate and conduct their activities primarily via the Internet. With gangs like these Real World Trading is not the kind of activity neither Jagex, nor we as players, would want in RuneScape. If there is any way you feel that Jagex can combat this problem or if you have sensitive information that might lead to the prosecution of these rule-breakers, they are very keen to hear from rule-abiding players like yourself. Send them the information via a confidential query from the "Comment on our service" link found on their main page. I agree with you that the selling of RuneScape Items & Gold is a great concern for all players of RuneScape, as it creates the bot problem we see, and allows those who purchase such things to gain an unfair advantage in the game. It's an issue in which Jagex needs the whole player community to be active against, in order to effectively combat this illegal trade. See my post on Page 6 for the detailed response I've already made to this article, which I agree has been good for debate though hardly conclusive in terms of the future of RuneScape. Regards, Fey.

Heh, thanks. I'm glad you asked as this has helped prove my point. As all players, who should know about RuneScape, are aware, Forum Moderators on the RuneScape Boards are volunteers from the community, much as Moderators on Tip.It are volunteers. We all give our time freely (which we could've used to level and enjoy the game) to help protect the player community. We do our job in order to counteract activities which are destructive to the shared game-playing experience, and that ruin the game. No one deserves to be scammed by another player deliberately lying about the dangers involved in the Wilderness. If a player said to someone: "Come to the Mage Bank in your party hat. Oh, please be aware I or any other player can kill you on the way there, so be careful!", the victim would instantly be alerted to the danger. Of course that destroys the 'act' of luring, but that's the point: Luring into the Wilderness under false pretences is a scam. Similarly Brendan, The fault in any scam simply does not lie with the victim. That's why players here on Tip.It and elsewhere took a stand to ensure Jagex was consistent. Those who deliberately lie and cheat other players won't be allowed to conduct their trade without fear of being removed from the community they abuse. Every player in the game is a real person - it's role-play but at the same time it's also affecting others in the real world. All players must take responsibility for their actions with regard to other players. As Andrew Gower said: Good luck to them in finding that game though - I doubt there's any community that tolerates such abusers for long. Regards

Sadly it's reverting to mocking another player that shows you must revert to an Ad Hominen argument: that is attacking the person rather than the argument. I suggest to you that mocking others, rather than putting forth any sustainable argument, is your only recourse. The argument for luring has now been lost forever, and as such, the days of Luring as part of the game will never return to RuneScape. There are many players who've fought nobly with good intent and even better arguments who will ensure and remain vigilant that those days will never return. Luring into the Wilderness under false pretences is not part of RuneScape. The overwhelming response of the fair and honest players in RuneScape help convince Jagex of this who brought this important issue to the attention of Andrew & Paul. These two people who are the creators of the game have clearly spoken that luring is something RuneScape does not need (Andrew even banned forever one such player from the Official Forums personally). Most importantly players did this by making strong and reasoned arguments. They did not 'riot' in-game, they did not 'blame the victim'. They did not make excuses for what is essentially the abuse of the trust of another real person. Now in RuneScape (as in Real Life) lying to other players for your personal gain is scamming (fraud). If anything it's the players who deceived other players who are now finding a clear message being sent by Jagex as well as RuneScape players: Abusing another player's trust isn't tolerated and is definitely not part the game of RuneScape. Regards, Fey.

True. If you are wearing expensive items and do not encourage or deceive them (using false pretences) about giving them any items, then they are obviously choosing to chase after and possibly PK you for that item. PK-ing them in that case is legitimate PK-ing between players. If however some players were to drop items just inside the Wilderness so as to be visible to those outside (a popular luring scam) that is bannable. Since it's deliberately being done in order to lure players into a dangerous area - luring them into the Wilderness under false pretences. I am reliably told that is a scam and is reportable. If players wish to confirm that they should message Jagex Customer Support of course, but that's what I've been informed is considered a luring into the Wilderness scam. So simply: do not drop items simply in order to lure other players into the Wilderness, as you can be reported and you will be banned for it. Regards, Fey.

Post Edited: Thu Mar 29, 2007 1:50 pm (GMT) This is hot off the presses (just a few minutes ago). RuneScape Forums > PK-ing > Luring in the Wilderness - New Quick find code: 47-48-181-41442526 There's be a clarification to Rule 2 - Item Scamming in the Rules of Conduct too. Regards, Fey.

My issues with this article There are many good responses here from all the different sides of the many fences. I say 'many', because it would be fundamentally amiss to claim that all 13 year olds are like this, and those who are in their mature years, are like that. If we wish to speak regarding the specifics of the game and everyone's individual assessment of it as being characterised as being 'childish' or 'too difficult' we end up with contradictory views straight up. As another example, a vocal number of players have expressed Jagex's request for player's to take responsibility for their own behaviour in-game is 'too much' for the vulnerable young players (e.g. recent changes with regards to 'Luring into the Wilderness'). As well a vocal group have also said Jagex is being over-protective ('babying') if it tries to help players too much (e.g. Lumbridge Tutors, Homeport spell, etc.). These are only a two of a multitude of divergent player perspectives on rule changes and updates. As a disclaimer, I am speaking on my own behalf, as a player of the game here. So my views on the above examples is that we shouldn't allow or encourage players to engage in a 'culture' of lying (neglecting to warn or lying to other players about 'the danger' is deception). Yet with the Tutorial updates provided for new players, I can see benefits since that has reduced the incidence of beggers, given there is now a wealth of help and assistance available in-game for them. We must speak as individuals, of our experiences in the context of each of our characters in the game, for our specific views on these matters to make sense. I think it's wrong to take these 'specific' views and without acknowledging the dramatic loss of context that happens when making general conclusions about it all. Sampling views and pasting them on top of general characterisations of age-groups carries with it the danger of ignoring all the differences between these individuals and the wide variations within those groups, let alone within the RuneScape population itself. Though I do feel the Editor does have a good grasp of the main elements corporate culture and it's generalities. It's when the Editor takes those generalities and applies them to Jagex as somehow explaining why 'individual' updates have been made in response to the above generalised demographics that important points may have been glossed over. There is a wide differential in the range of opinions within each generalised group of players, let alone on their views on the game in general. We must be careful when we cite specific features and updates, then draw from such specifics summations about Jagex's 'corporate culture'. We must take care when drawing very long bows about these issues. Least we give fodder for those few who are prone to resentment whose may wish harm to Jagex, or want to end 'the game' without thinking of the rest of us. I'm sure the Editor only wishes the best for the game and the players here, so I don't think there's any ill intent in the conclusions made in this particular article. My views on the relation of the RuneScape player base & Jagex's 'corporate culture' What I am saying, that even with some very finely drawn arguments it would still be very difficult to reduce all the very complex and divergent questions the Editor has raised into a single conclusion. Despite my reservations stated here, I did enjoy reading what is still an important article for RuneScape and it's players. I do feel that a number of points do need to be addressed individually rather used to critique Jagex on one point: that somehow they're unfocussed as a company. I disagree with that point, since Jagex has a vast age-range of players in which some aspects of the game call for much more maturity and planning than would be capable in the putative 'early youth' market. At the same time the availability of the 'free version' of the game (and it's limited skill set) does attract a lot of young players. I disagree, too, that we can or should be asking Jagex to choose among all these players; after all we all do want to the game to grow and mature along with all of its players to the exclusion of none. How Jagex does this is less related to it's particular corporate structure though, since this is as you pointed out, a challenge all growing companies face. Yet, since all MMORPGs are virtual worlds, they are fundamentally different beasts to any corporate structure that has come before. It's not just 'policing a game' but a new virtual-place where players and whole social groups mature and change. Luckily we don't have to deal with Real World Trading, ownership in virtual spaces or any of the other obvious legal and legislative mine-fields (like taxation). Accommodating what is happening in RuneScape, as you illustrated on some other points, will not be easy. However, it's far too early to draw quick conclusions or write Jagex's eulogy. The entrepreneurs had already created a division of labour awhile back anyway. Constant was and still is the corporate manager. Andrew was, and still is, the game engine designer and architect of RuneScript. Paul remains the director of the Content Development division. While we may have a few more players, we need to recognise, that some of their success was due to their early differentiation of those roles. Is the Editor suggesting that Constant resign? I don't believe so. Is the Editor saying that Andrew or Paul should no longer have a say in the development of the engine or the content of the game? I don't believe the Editor is trying to say that either. Is the Editor suggesting they need to take a look at who says what goes in important parts of the game? Possibly. Maybe if you can get responses from Constant Tedder on this you might get some answers on the Corporate front. However, it's a myth that Andrew and Paul are overwhelmed, since they have a great team of people whom they have worked with for some time now, as I'm sure you have acknowledged many times. It's a staff base in which they're recruiting more than ever, which if anything indicates they expect more growth to come. On being a player and the RuneScape narrative As a player though I can sympathise since it is a little overwhelming to think what was a small community only a few years back is now heading into realm of being one among many millions, mirroring the real globe with a virtual one. That makes player anxiety and curiosity over the goings on at Jagex Towers of intense interest to all who care for the game and their characters part in it. I seen lots of suggestions for the 'final battle' between Zamorak & Saradomin, and similar themes. Yet, all peoples (even the fictional ones in RuneScape) have been obsessed with those themes of 'origins' and 'endings' since the 'beginning' of time; it's a preoccupation popular in many Real Life belief systems. Even in RuneScape we have the precedent that before the war of the gods (the 3rd Age) there were previous gods who never would've imagined things could've gone on without them. It's this deep desire to understand it all things, and then relate it back to our own part in events, that leads us to early conclusions when the story for the greater world of RuneScape has only just started. I feel that same desire in players is what is driving this need to summarise and 'conclude' a history of a game, which I believe is only at the end of it's early growth stages; and this so-called 'end' is only part of RuneScape's next and hopefully larger beginning. All in all it's a good article, but I feel it's too soon to make pronouncements on the 'final outcome' (what some players seem to want) of the future of what is still a rapidly growing company. In that sense the Editor is correct to conclude the article with a rhetorical question, since none of us can predict what the future holds for Jagex or for RuneScape. Long live RuneScape. Congratulations to the Editor on an obviously thought provoking article.

Mod Burgess just updated the sticky too. Jagex has clarified the statement. Meaning that 'Luring into the Wilderness' is no longer specifically legal or considered allowed by the rules. The wording has been changed so now it's clear that Jagex only considers it not to be a 'reportable' offence. I'd ask all players to pay particular notice that 'Luring into the Wilderness' is considered an 'offence' though just not a reportable one. > RuneScape Forums > PK-ing > Luring in to the Wilderness For that reason Tip.It is taking the right stance on this issue, since Jagex never intended for players to be mislead and lured into the Wilderness. Luring is not fair play :shame: Regards, Fey.

We will lock any thread found to be breaking these rules here in the Graveyard. In addition, please help by reporting videos that break this rule. If there are any questions, please post them here. Thanks. :) =D> I know the volunteer forum moderators on the Jagex's RuneScape Forums would applaud Tip.It & the Moderators here for their strong stance against something that is clearly "not in the spirit of the game." We all are working hard to fight the good fight for the spirit of good & fair game-play in RuneScape. Keep up the good work. Regards, Fey.

No. Refering people to fan sites will not get you banned. Jagex consider them to be a "major part of the community" : It's because many players don't know the difference that you still aren't allowed to mention them though. Repeatedly mentioning URLs in RuneScape on on their forums, would be considered ignoring warnings; and ignoring warnings would result in a ban. That's not the fault of Tip.it or Jagex. It's because some players don't educate themselves, so for the sake of their safety a simple rule was drafted. It's also for the sake of consistency too, because many players seem to get easily confused that a simple rule had to be drafted. Then to be fair the rule had to be applied to all fan sites. The wider RuneScape community (not just the RuneScape Community fan-site forums) is one of the most diverse of any MMORPG out there which is something to be proud of and not scorned. However, with that diversity a lot of things that might work in more homogeneous communities (groups that don't have a lot of differences between their members) aren't allowed for that reason. Regardless of players' opinions of different fan-sites, practising safe computing by not using your RuneScape password on any other site, and keeping your security software (anti-virus, firewall, anti-spyware, etc.) up-to-date and turned-on at all times, is essential. And not downloading & installing anything you cannot trust and being wary of links or images anyone sends you is also being a net-wise citizen. Like in real-life we need to be just careful of what we allow onto our computers, as much as we'd be wary of what we allow into our homes. Each player needs to take control of their safety at their end.

I found this on the Jagex corporate site, which suggests an entirely new, undisclosed game is in the making. I somehow don't think it will be an "RS3", but still think it will be a browser-based MMORPG. Most likely using a similar engine to Runescape, (because there is no position advertised for programmers to create an entirely new engine), but with different storylines, quests, and skills to boot. Although I'm basing all this on assumptions, so no doubt I will be proved wrong by the Jagex crew. : I think that's what the Editor is implying. There will be no RS3, but there will be a new browser-based MMORPG from Jagex that will incorporate a lot of the stuff they're testing in RS right now. Different storyline, different world. Make us all start from 0 again. About that I found this hinting it will not be a medevil based game [...] I believe that it will be a sci-fi based game. I have to say about the skills being complete well that is wrong Jagex are working on skills and once they get so far in a skill they start on the next skill. Andrew posted this in the Runescape forums when so many people complained about no updates a few weeks ago that post is now removed I believe. That thread is still on the Runescape forums: Update process explained - Andrew - Jagex Mod Players should be wary whenever they hear rumours of a RuneScape 3. There's a high probability that anything claiming to give a preview of it will be a malicious scam designed to steal players' accounts. For that reason alone that's why Jagex would be keep anything else underwraps; so as not to give any hackers more scam-bait. Yet from what I've read here & elsewhere Jagex has no existing or future plans for any RuneScape 3. I'm not sure it's going to be futuristic, but I guess it's arguable for now until we see what's being done with the fantastic Java engine that Andrew's put so much time into so far. If one reads this article, "Why men in tights work for MMO games", Medieval Themed MMORPGs are going to dominate for some time, so we can probably look forward to a LOT more updates to the RuneScape we have now in the coming years.