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World of Warcraft vs RuneScape

Every attribute in the database, side by side — MMOlist scores World of Warcraft at 85 and RuneScape at 78, but the right pick depends on how you play.

World of WarcraftRuneScape
StatusLiveLive
Release year20042001
DeveloperBlizzard EntertainmentJagex
Business modelSubscriptionFree-to-Play + Sub Option
PlatformsPC, MacPC, Mobile
Combat typeTab TargetHybrid
World designThemeparkSandbox
MMOlist score8578
Steam rating82%
User score8.4/107/10
Critic score8680
Steam peak CCU8K
PvE focus
PvP focus
Grindiness
Solo friendly
Casual friendly
Typical session1–2 hours30–60 min
Time to endgame40–100h300h+
Catch-up friendly
Chore pressure
Endgame progressionVerticalHybrid
Alt friendly
Crafting depth
Guild importance
P2W perceptionLowModerate
Open-world PvPNoNo
Full-loot PvPNoNo
HousingInstancedInstanced
Update cadenceVery ActiveActive
Best forRaiders; Mythic+ dungeon runners; Players who want the genre's most polished themeparkSkillers; Quest lovers; Solo progression players

Pick World of Warcraft if you want…

  • Raiders
  • Mythic+ dungeon runners
  • Players who want the genre's most polished themepark

Pick RuneScape if you want…

  • Skillers
  • Quest lovers
  • Solo progression players

Still torn? Add a third game, or let the quiz decide from how you actually play.