RuneScape HD isn't suddenly a contender for the World of Warcraft throne -- and with a business model based on low-value add-on subscriptions to a free game, Jagex isn't aiming at WoW customers. They are however in striking distance of aging, low-power MMOs like Ultima Online. While the HD engine doesn't compete with Ultima's 2007 update (Ultima Online: Kingdom Reborn), it moves a step closer for players still on older clients due to system requirements
RuneScape is in a market niche all its own. It skews young and low-fi. But never underestimate the power of "free," and the revenue potential of the upsell to "cheap." The RuneScape facelift is a solid step forward for the RuneScape faithful, requiring no expense, or even effort. It's a rare free lunch in gaming.
