RuneScapeRolls Out Player Avatar with Modernised Models and More

Jagex has released the new Player Avatar update for RuneScape. It’s the biggest visual overhaul RuneScape has seen in more than a decade, according to the devs. The update is a major part of the Road to Restoration initiative, a year-long plan that launched in January during RuneScape’s 25th anniversary celebrations.

Player Avatar refreshes the appearance of the RuneScape characters

You’ll find new high-fidelity avatar head and body models, along with matching chatheads that appear during conversations with NPCs. Jagex has also refreshed all existing base hairstyles and all existing base beard options, while introducing additional hairstyles for both male and female characters.

The update includes a full collection of starting-game-themed outfits, alongside updated versions of the most frequently chosen base clothing items available from Thessalia’s shop. They’ve replaced old avatar heads and chatheads with entirely new versions.

If you’re wondering exactly what Player Avatar exactly means, here is the definition. It’s specifically the character model itself and its foundational customisation options. That includes gender, hairstyle, facial hair, tops, legwear, shoes, and the available colour variations for those features.

Jagex noted that the focus of this phase is strictly the player avatar. NPC updates are not part of the first stage of the project, and they’re also treating cosmetics separately. On that note, watch this devlog to learn more about it.

The second phase of the Avatar project is coming this autumn

One of the major objectives of the Road to Restoration plan is Visual Regrounding. Jagex wants to create a more cohesive visual identity across RuneScape while keeping its high-fantasy setting rooted in medieval foundations.

Part of that effort has already been visible through the Early Game Rebalancing update of February, the Combat Overhaul in March and the DailyScape activities, also in March. If you haven’t played the game for a while, now might be a good time to do so. Grab it from the Google Play Store.

Also, read our news on Wingspan’s First Bird Pack of British Birds!