RuneScape Dragonwilds has dropped in early access, and it’s not your typical MMO spin-off. Built by Jagex, the team behind the classic Runescape franchise, Dragonwilds is a solo/co-op survival RPG set in the dangerous land of Ashenfall, where dragons rule the skies and survival is a daily battle.
If you’re just jumping in, here’s how to actually play.
Step 1: Understand What Dragonwilds Is
This isn’t Runescape with a new coat of paint, Dragonwilds is a standalone survival game where you gather resources, build shelters, battle enemies, and cast spells, all while trying to survive long enough to uncover the mysteries of Ashenfall.
Think Valheim meets Gielinor, with faster mobility, a unique magic system, and big fantasy energy.
Step 2: Survive Your First Day
You start shipwrecked and alone, surrounded by hostile terrain and deadly creatures. Here’s how to survive:
- Gather wood and stone to craft your first basic tools.
- Find shelter or build a small camp using materials around you.
- Cook food (yes, you’ll need it), and stay out of dragon territory early on.
You’ll also encounter runes early, more on those in a minute.
Step 3: Learn the Magic System
Dragonwilds ditches traditional weapon crafting in favor of magic-based tools and combat. For example:
- Use the “Axetral” spell to chop down entire rows of trees.
- Air runes let you zoom across terrain, reducing travel time.
- More powerful runes can later be used to construct floating structures, summon defenses, or enhance your combat.
Spells are acquired as you progress and tied to both exploration and your “Mind Palace”, an internal skill-tree-like mechanic that lets you upgrade and customize your abilities.
Step 4: Build and Expand
Base-building is essential. You’ll need to:
- Collect resources to create defensive structures.
- Build a crafting station, forge, and cooking area.
- Set up defenses, Ashenfall is crawling with creatures, and dragons can show up fast.
RuneScape Dragonwilds also includes intuitive blueprint-based building, so you don’t need to memorize recipes or layouts.
Step 5: Fight or Avoid Dragons
Dragons are not just scenery. They’re the game’s main threat, and eventually, your main goal.
- Early on, avoid them unless you’re prepared.
- As you gather gear, runes, and allies (if playing co-op), you can begin challenging their reign.
- Expect a mix of melee, ranged, and spellcasting combat. Dragon fights are massive, environmental, and strategic.
Bonus Tip: Multiplayer Requires Epic Account
If you want to play online, you must link your Steam and Epic Games accounts. It’s optional, solo play is fully available without the link, but it’s required for co-op.
Runescape Dragonwilds blends survival gameplay with the rich fantasy of Gielinor in a fresh, magic-first format. Whether you’re building a forest refuge or preparing to take down corrupted dragons, the key is exploration, experimentation, and survival strategy.
If you’re ready to dive in, the game’s available now for $29.99 / £24.99 in early access. Bring your runes, and maybe a spare pair of pants. Ashenfall doesn’t mess around.
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