In the twenty-plus years sinceRunescapefirst debuted as an MMORPG optimized to be played on web browsers, Jagex’s flagship game has become one of the most well-known and highly-regarded MMOs in the world of gaming. The game’s success has led to plenty of spinoffs and alternatives for players to experience the world of Gielinor, ranging fromOld-School Runescapepreserving the game’s much-loved 2006 version to Steamforged Games recently announcing both aRunescapeboard game and tabletop RPG core books. Now, a recent trademark suggests Jagex may be eyeing its next big adventure in the near future.
WhileRunescapehas beenJagex’s most widely recognized game without question, the massively popular Java-based MMORPG is by no means the developer’s only game. From 2015’s sandbox shooterBlock N Loadto multiple other casual browser-based games both on their own platforms and other sites like Facebook, Jagex’s creations boast a small but diverse library. Now, Jagex has recently filed a trademark for ‘ELDERGATE’ with many fans speculating the title may hint at the developer’s next game.
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The trademark filed by Jagex looks to claim rights to the name ‘ELDERGATE’ with specific classifications for the trademark listing it as being related to “video game software” among several other categories, leading many fans to speculate thatELDERGATEmay be anew game in development by Jagexthat has yet to be formally revealed.ELDERGATEbeing developed in-house by Jagex would mark the first time since the failedChronicle: Runescape Legendin 2015 that Jagex itself has produced a new game, though the British gaming company has published several smaller indie games.
The announcement of a new game being developed by Jagex would come fresh off the heels of a big year for the developer’s flagship game celebrating its 20th anniversary. Last summer saw the long-awaited release of the mobile version ofRuneScape’s modern version as well as several fan-favorite features added toOld School Runescape.Jagex even teamed up with community modder 117 to create aHD mod forOld School Runescapefollowing fan outcry against Jagex’s original stance on the mod. What kind of gameELDERGATEmay end up being remains to be seen in an official reveal.
Runescape’s big year in 2021 came as the Javascript-based RPG continues to face growing competition with several high-profile MMORPGs debuting in the past few years. February sawthe long-awaited global release ofLost Ark, a popular MMORPG which was formerly exclusive to South Korea since its launch in 2018, and Amazon launched its foray into the MMORPG genre in September withNew World. Jagex andRunescapeare all too familiar with the ebb and flow of MMORPGs and have stood the test of time for over two decades, and the developer could look to see similar success withELDERGATE.
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