Jagex will allow the publication of 117Scape's RuneLite HD plugin for RuneScape next week, putting an end to a controversy that greatly upset the Old School RuneScape community.
RuneScape is a pretty popular game with over a million paying subscribers as of 2019. This free-to-play MMORPG has been enjoyed by fans for over two decades and has a dedicated following. While it's not quite as epic as the Ultima franchise, it still holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers.
Naturally, this dedication to the game means that it has a robust modding community. One such modder named "117Scape" was working on an HD plugin for the older version of the game, but Jagex put a stop to that at the beginning of this week as part of a policy change on Third-Party HD clients. Jagex's move caused a massive backlash in the community and the company has subsequently reversed course. Now, an agreement has been reached between Jagex and 117Scape to finally allow this plugin to be published.
117Scape's RuneLite HD Plugin Will Go Live Next Week, Jagex Says
117Scape's RuneLite HD plugin will finally be published early next week according to Jagex, allowing Old School RuneScape players to enjoy the classic version of the game with crisper graphics.
"We're delighted to confirm that we've reached a positive agreement with 117Scape and that their much-anticipated HD Plugin for the RuneLite client will be made freely available on Monday, September 13th when RuneLite pushes it live," read a statement from Jagex (via Reddit).
"We'll publish another blog on the Old School website once 117Scape's HD Plugin is available with information on how to access the plugin, and we'll continue to provide news on any future updates the plugin may receive."
117Scape's RuneLite HD plugin was originally blocked from release due to Jagex's plans for an HD client of its own. However, Jagex is only in the beginning stages of this project and many members of the community were upset that the company blocked 117Scape's plugin from launching. Jagex subsequently reversed course on its decision following the massive outcry, stating that it would allow 117Scape's plugin to be used until its home-grown solution was ready for release in the coming years.
You'll be able to get 117Scape's RuneLite HD plugin when it launches on Monday, September 13, 2021. Keep an eye on the Old School RuneScape website for details on how to get it when that day arrives.
What do you think of Jagex finally allowing 117Scape's RuneLite HD plugin to be published? What's your fondest RuneScape memory? Let us know in the comments below!
