Free-to-play players can start at cows, goblins, or chickens near Lumbridge. Around level 20, move on to the frogs in Lumbridge Swamp, then the Flesh Crawlers in RuneScape gold the Stronghold of Security. At level 50+, train on Spiders deeper inside the Stronghold, or farm Ogress Warriors for profit.

Members should complete Waterfall Quest immediately - it boosts both Attack and Strength to level 30 instantly. Afterward, train at Rock Crabs (Rellekka) or Sand Crabs (Zeah). Once you reach level 50–60, transition to Slayer, which combines combat XP with valuable loot.

Quests and Progression

Quests are central to progression in OSRS. While not mandatory, they unlock crucial features, teleports, and gear. The Quest Helper plugin in RuneLite is invaluable - it literally guides you step-by-step.

Key quests for beginners:

Waterfall Quest: Huge Attack/Strength XP boost.

Cook's Assistant: Unlocks early Cooking experience.

Druidic Ritual: Unlocks the Herblore skill.

Rune Mysteries: Unlocks Runecrafting.

Aim to complete Recipe for Disaster over time - finishing it grants Barrows Gloves, one of the best early-game items.

Skills and Training

OSRS features 23 skills - from combat to gathering and artisan skills. Free-to-play skills include Mining, Fishing, Smithing, Woodcutting, Firemaking, Crafting, and Runecrafting. Member-exclusive ones like Agility, Herblore, Slayer, and Construction add even more depth.

Each skill maxes out at level 99, requiring 13 million XP. Most players train skills to unlock money-making methods or content access.

Examples:

Mining + Smithing: Smelt and forge armor.

Fishing + Cooking: Catch and prepare food for combat.

Agility: Run longer distances and unlock shortcuts.

Slayer: Train combat efficiently while earning profits.

Farming: Plant herbs and crops for steady, passive income.

Making Money Early

RS gold is essential for gear, teleportation, and supplies. Early methods include:

Collecting Cowhides (sell at the Grand Exchange).

Thieving from stalls for cash and items.

Fishing for Lobsters and cooking them for food sales.

Crafting Jewelry (especially gold amulets or rings).

Farming Herbs – one of the best low-effort money makers.

Use the OSRS Wiki or dedicated money-making guides to find the best method for your stats.

Your First Major Goals

In your first weeks of play, aim to:

Complete essential quests (Waterfall, Druidic Ritual, Rune Mysteries).

Unlock key teleports and travel items.

Begin Slayer training once your combat stats hit 50+.

Earn your first Barrows Gloves and Dragon Defender.

Explore mini-games like Barbarian Assault, Pest Control, and Wintertodt.

Once you're confident, you'll progress naturally into mid-game activities - bossing, minigames, and quest chains that unlock higher-tier gear. Eventually, the endgame offers Raids, Grandmaster Quests, and high-level achievements for dedicated adventurers.

Final Thoughts

Old School RuneScape's beauty lies in its freedom. You can become a skilled crafter, a fierce boss slayer, or a collector of pets and capes. There's no "wrong" way to play - only goals to chase and milestones to cheap RS gold celebrate.