It is with sad news that we announce the end of an era: Jagex is shutting down the Legacy Java Client for OSRS.

Now, many of you may not even know what this client is. This is the version of OSRS that predates the C++ Client, which is what you’re currently using if you downloaded the game from Steam or OSRS.

However, a small number of OSRS players are still using that Legacy Java Client. That means they’ve had this thing installed on their PCs for at least three years, which is when the Official Client launched on Steam and the website.

Why is OSRS Retiring the Legacy Java Client?

Well, according to a post on the official OSRS website, the Legacy Client is responsible for a fair amount of botting and other ‘malicious activity’.

Jagex is keen to stress that this won’t shut down botting entirely, but it will cut down a reliable method that current botters are already using.

That’s not the only reason, of course. The team also wants to cut down on the amount of maintenance required. OSRS already has the Official Client, as well as Mobile, to keep on top, of so cutting back on resource that few use anyway makes sense.

What About RuneLite or HDOS?

While it’s true that RuneLite and HDOS are Java-based, Jagex has confirmed that this change won’t affect either of those clients. They’re separate entities from Legacy or Official, and that won’t change with this update.

So make sure you download the Official Client soon to ensure you can keep playing OSRS.

When is Jagex Shutting Down the OSRS Legacy Client?

Jagex is shutting down the OSRS Legacy Java Client early next year, but we don’t have an official date just yet. You will receive a reminder in-game if you’re still using the legacy client though.

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