Made in the UK: 25 years of Runescape

This year marks a major milestone for one of the UK’s most iconic video game success stories. Jagex, the Cambridge-based studio behind RuneScape, is celebrating 25 years since the game’s beginnings.

Jagex employs over 600 people, and have generated over £3 billion in lifetime revenue. They have been on a journey that reflects not only the evolution of a beloved franchise but the strength and staying power of British creativity.

What started life in 2001 as a Java-based browser game has grown into a global phenomenon. Twenty-five years on, RuneScape and Old School RuneScape are reaching record player numbers, supported by one of the largest and most active communities in the game’s history.

Few entertainment properties anywhere in the world can claim that kind of longevity and fewer still can say they were built and sustained from the UK.

To mark the anniversary, Jagex has launched RS25, a transformative programme that sets the direction for the next era of RuneScape.

Our ‘Made in the UK’ campaign shines a spotlight on the companies that are putting Britain on the map in one of the world’s most competitive creative industries and we are delighted to see Jagex reaching this milestone.

Reflecting on the milestone, Jagex CEO Jon Bellamy said: “It’s incredible to think a quarter century has passed since RuneScape’s beginnings as a Java-based browser game. Today we’re speaking to the largest and most active RuneScape community in our history, and this milestone is as much theirs as it is ours.”

Crucially, RS25 is not just about celebrating the past. It is a statement of long-term intent – investment in technology, teams, and player experience designed to ensure RuneScape continues to inspire and connect millions of players for decades to come.

That long-term approach is something policymakers are increasingly focused on as the UK looks to drive growth through its creative industries. RuneScape demonstrates how British studios can build globally competitive intellectual property, retain and grow talent over decades, and continuously adapt to technological change – all while remaining rooted in the UK.

Creative Industries Minister Ian Murray recognised the milestone, saying:
“Jagex have been at the forefront of the video game industry for a quarter of a century, demonstrating how British studios can produce iconic, international hits like RuneScape. The government is committed to ensuring the continued success of our world-class video game sector and I am excited to see how Jagex continues to innovate, inspire, and build worlds alongside its global community.”

Made in the UK’ is all about celebrating great games made here in the UK, and we are delighted to see companies like Jagex getting that recognition from the government.