RuneScape to Remove 'Treasure Hunter' Microtransactions Following Player Vote

Jagex, the developer behind the popular online role-playing game RuneScape, has confirmed the complete removal of its 'Treasure Hunter' microtransaction system by January 19, 2026. This decision follows a highly successful player-led poll, which saw an overwhelming majority advocate for its discontinuance. This move signals a new direction for the game, emphasizing enhanced player value and an equitable gaming environment, according to Jagex CEO Jon Bellamy, and marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing discussion surrounding monetization practices in the gaming industry.

The 'Treasure Hunter' system, first introduced in 2014, functioned as a daily in-game activity that rewarded participants with various benefits, including experience point enhancements, progression-skipping items, and virtual currency. While players received one complimentary 'Treasure Hunter' key daily and could earn more through gameplay, the option to purchase additional keys was also available. This mechanic, often likened to a 'loot box' system, consistently faced strong opposition and criticism from the player community due to concerns about its predatory nature and impact on fair play.

The public referendum on the fate of 'Treasure Hunter' was initiated on October 29, with Jagex setting a target of 100,000 votes over a two-week period. However, the player base's strong desire for change became immediately evident, as more than half the required votes were accumulated within a mere few hours. The overall voting objective was surpassed by the following day, culminating in a total of 124,985 votes in favor of removing the microtransaction layer, clearly demonstrating the community's decisive stance.

Jagex had anticipated this outcome, having previously acknowledged the detrimental effects of RuneScape's microtransaction approach. CEO Jon Bellamy himself had voiced concerns in June, stating that the current monetization strategy was "harming RuneScape" and necessitated immediate corrective action. He recognized the inherent risks in altering a deeply embedded system but underscored the greater risk of maintaining the status quo, emphasizing the need for bold decisions to secure the game's long-term health and player satisfaction.

However, Bellamy's leadership has not been without controversy. His decision to significantly scale back RuneScape's Pride events earlier in the year drew considerable backlash from both Jagex employees and the broader RuneScape community. This previous action, which some interpreted as capitulating to external pressures, has led to speculation that the highly publicized removal of 'Treasure Hunter' might be an attempt to mend player relations and restore goodwill, especially given that the outcome of the vote was widely considered a foregone conclusion.

Regardless of the underlying motivations, the elimination of the 'Treasure Hunter' system represents a positive development for RuneScape players. Bellamy has assured the community that this is merely the beginning of a comprehensive overhaul. Future plans include an "Integrity Roadmap" designed to address key player pain points and an ambitious content roadmap, promising a revitalized and more engaging experience for the game's dedicated fanbase.

Further details regarding RuneScape's future initiatives for 2026 are slated to be unveiled during a special "RuneScape Ahead" showcase event, scheduled to coincide with the official removal of the 'Treasure Hunter' system on January 19, 2026. This upcoming presentation is expected to outline the specific enhancements and new content that will shape the game's trajectory in the years to come, building on this significant shift in game philosophy.