This article answers the question of whether Runescape and OSRS minigames should be considered gambling or gaming. The article also explains what is a mini-game.
Are mini-games gambling or gaming?
In RuneScape and Old School RuneScape (OSRS), mini-games offer an engaging mix of gaming and, in some instances, elements similar to gambling.
These mini-games, part of the RuneScape's gameplay, range from purely skill-based challenges to activities where outcomes hinge on chance.
Mark D. Griffiths and Rosie King highlight the psychological parallels between video games and gambling, particularly how certain game structures mirror those of conventional gambling machines.
RuneScape's mini-games straddle this fine line. For example, while most mini-games serve as fun, in-game experiences, others have ventured into gambling territory. Recognizing the potential for such activities to skew towards gambling, Jagex has taken steps to maintain RuneScape's integrity.
Jagex removed features like dice games and flower poker, which were too gambling-oriented, to safeguard the game's ecosystem and its young player base.
This proactive approach by Jagex, combined with the game's rich economics, PvP battles, and immersive gameplay, reflects a commitment to keeping RuneScape a gaming-first environment.
It's a balance of making sure that while players can engage in competitive and rewarding in-game activities, they're not exposed to gambling activities that could impact real money or in-game currency in a way that detracts from the overall experience.
What are mini-games in RuneScape?
Mini-games in RuneScape stand as engaging, in-game activities, designed for player enjoyment and to reward with items, experience, or in-game currency.
Mini-games range widely, from skill-increasing challenges to competitive player-versus-player (PvP) encounters.
Historically, mini-games transformed into gambling hubs, leading to intervention by Jagex due to concerns over gambling bots and the impact on adolescents and the overall game integrity. Notable examples include:
- Dice Game: Players wagered on the outcome of percentile dice rolls, with payouts typically hinging on high rolls. This game was plagued by scams, leading to its discontinuation and the removal of dice bags.
- Flower Poker: Following the dice game's removal, this became the go-to gambling game, where bets were placed on the color of flowers from planted mithril seeds. Jagex's changes in 2013 rendered this game obsolete by standardizing flower appearances to all players.
- Horse Game: Bets were made on phrases uttered by playing with a Toy horsey. Jagex's modification of the toy horsey's phrases to a single, gambling-discouraging message ended this form of betting.
These adjustments reflect Jagex's commitment to maintaining RuneScape as a game focused on skill, strategy, and community, rather than gambling. The removal of these gambling games underscores the importance of ethical gaming practices, aligning with gaming law review standards and safeguarding against online gambling tendencies, especially among younger gamers.
Can you gamble on RuneScape?
No, you cannot officially gamble on RuneScape. Jagex removed gambling games like flower poker and horse game to comply with gaming regulations. However, you can use RuneScape in-game currency to play in online casinos like RainBet
What is the difference between gaming and gambling in OSRS and RuneScape?
In RuneScape and OSRS, gaming involves activities like quests and battles, while gambling refers to betting on event outcomes, posing risks due to potential scams.
Why do people gamble in RuneScape and OSRS?
People gamble in RuneScape and OSRS for entertainment, to win in-game currency, and to test their luck in a virtual setting.
How should you spend your OSRS and RuneScape gold?
Spend your OSRS and RuneScape gold on improving skills, buying gear, and investing in items that offer long-term value.