It’s an exciting time for Old School RuneScape (OSRS) fans—after nearly a year of community consultations, polls, and vigorous debate, the game is about to receive its first new skill in over a decade: Sailing. The news came through recently and has generated considerable buzz across the community. Here’s a detailed look at this groundbreaking development and what it means for the future of OSRS.

A Historic Development

Old School RuneScape has seen numerous updates and additions since its initial release in 2013, but none as significant as the introduction of a new skill. The Sailing skill, which has been a topic of discussion and speculation for years, has finally been approved by the community. This follows extensive polling and feedback sessions, reflecting a deep level of community involvement in shaping the game’s future.

The polling results were remarkably close, with Sailing passing by just under 3,000 votes—71.9% in favor and 28.1% against. This narrow margin underscores the strong opinions held on both sides of the debate. Had Jagex not lowered the voting requirements earlier, this skill might never have made it through the polls. The fact that it did pass is a testament to the dedication and enthusiasm of both the developers and the community.

The Journey to Approval

Sailing has been a contentious topic for years. Back in 2015, a similar proposal failed, receiving only 32% approval. The current proposal, however, has seen significant changes and improvements, reflecting both advancements in game design and shifts in community sentiment. The fact that the approval rate increased by approximately 40 percentage points over eight years demonstrates the progress made in addressing player concerns and refining the concept.

One crucial factor in this success has been the extensive work put into the skill pitch by both Jagex moderators and community contributors like Gentle Tractor. The effort involved in crafting a compelling and well-thought-out skill proposal cannot be overstated. The development team has poured countless hours into refining the concept, ensuring that it aligns with players' expectations and enhances the overall game experience.

What’s Next for Sailing?

With the skill officially locked in, the next phase involves its development. Jagex has committed to incorporating ongoing community feedback throughout this process. A beta version of the skill is expected, which will be critical for fine-tuning core mechanics and ensuring that the skill is both enjoyable and functional.

Key aspects of Sailing that are still under development include the movement system for boats, the intricacies of ocean navigation, and other crucial features. The beta phase will allow players to test these elements and provide feedback, helping to iron out any potential issues before the skill’s official release.

Impact on the OSRS Map and Gameplay

The introduction of Sailing will undoubtedly bring significant changes to the OSRS map. The game’s current map is largely filled out, with the ocean being one of the few remaining unexplored areas. Sailing opens up the possibility of new locations, including potential oceanic regions and islands. This expansion will not only enhance exploration but also introduce new resources, quests, and challenges.

The possibility of new content, such as ocean raids, treasure hunting, sea monster hunting, and ship PvP, adds a layer of excitement. Ocean raids, for instance, could involve team-based challenges on the high seas, while treasure hunting might offer rewards similar to the Crucible system but set in the vast ocean. Sea monster hunting could bring a new dimension to Slayer tasks, and ship PvP could add a competitive edge to the game, allowing players to engage in naval battles.

The Road Ahead

Sailing is expected to be released sometime in 2024 or early 2025. This timeline reflects the extensive development and testing required for such a significant addition. The skill’s introduction will push the total level cap from 2277 to 2376, shaking up the high scores and introducing new challenges for players.

As we look forward to this new skill, there’s a sense of cautious optimism within the community. While there are always concerns about how well a new feature will be received, the improvements in Jagex’s development approach and the increasing trust built with the community over recent years provide hope that Sailing will be a successful addition to OSRS.

Conclusion

The addition of Sailing to Old School RuneScape marks a major milestone in the game's history. It represents not only the culmination of years of community feedback and development but also the beginning of a new era of exploration and adventure. As we eagerly await its release, there’s much to look forward to, from the new content and challenges it will bring to the potential changes in the game’s landscape.

For now, the focus shifts to the beta phase and ongoing development, where the community’s input will continue to play a vital role. With Sailing on the horizon, OSRS players have much to anticipate, and the future of the game looks brighter than ever. Stay tuned for updates and get ready to set sail on this exciting new journey!

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