Old School RuneScape: 8 Things To Do Before Becoming A Member
Saving up for a bond in Old School RuneScape (OSRS) can seem like a grind, especially when you're stuck in free-to-play (F2P) mode. However, F2P time doesn't have to be wasted. Players can prepare for membership by completing key tasks that will make the transition smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you're a beginner or a veteran returning to the game, here are 8 essential goals to complete before becoming a member.
8. Complete All F2P Quests
Quests are a fantastic way to not only unlock new abilities but also gain experience points. Some quests, like Goblin Diplomacy, Sheep Shearer, and Misthalin Mystery, grant bonus experience in crafting, while Vampire Slayer gives significant combat experience. However, the real challenge comes with Dragon Slayer, the hardest F2P quest. This quest rewards you with 18,650 Defense XP and grants you access to powerful gear, such as Rune and Green Dragonhide armor. Completing these quests also unlocks future member content, making it an efficient goal.
7. Upgrade Armor
There are two key sets of armor that F2P players should aim for: full Rune and full Green Dragonhide. These sets provide excellent protection for melee and ranged combat, respectively. While purchasing these from the Grand Exchange is the most efficient route, it will require a fair amount of OSRS gold. Here's a basic rundown:
Melee Armor (Rune): Rune Full Helm, Rune Platebody, Rune Plateskirt, Gilded Dragonhide Vambraces, Amulet of Power, Fancy Boots/Decorative Boots.
Ranged Armor (Green Dragonhide): Coif, Amulet of Power, Green Dragonhide Body, Green Dragonhide Chaps, Green Dragonhide Vambraces, Leather Boots.
These sets will help you train combat skills more efficiently and prepare for member gear.
6. Upgrade Gear
In F2P, there are a few essential gear upgrades that will make your training more efficient. The Rune Scimitar is the best weapon for melee combat, and it pairs well with a Rune kite shield. For ranged combat, the Maple Shortbow with Adamant Arrows is an excellent choice.
Additionally, you'll want to upgrade your tools to speed up your skill training. A Rune Pickaxe will make mining more efficient, a Rune Axe will help with woodcutting, and both Fishing and Fly Fishing Rods are crucial for fishing training.
5. Stronghold of Security
The Stronghold of Security is an essential dungeon located in Barbarian Village, just west of Varrock. The dungeon has several levels, each filled with monsters and treasures. For most players, it's best to level up some combat stats before attempting it. As you progress, you'll be rewarded with Fancy Boots, the best boots for melee training in F2P. Additionally, completing the dungeon grants you cheap OSRS gold, making it a good early moneymaking method.
4. Level Up General Skills
It's essential to level up your general skills before becoming a member. You should aim for:
Base 20 in all stats except Runecrafting (which is better leveled as a member).
30-40 in gathering skills like Woodcutting, Mining, Fishing, and Firemaking.
Skills like Smithing, Crafting, and Cooking are more efficiently trained in P2P, so don't stress about leveling them up too much.
Prayer can be tedious to train in F2P, so it's often better to leave it for later.
3. Level Up Combat Skills
Training your combat skills before becoming a member is crucial for making the transition easier. Aim for 40-60 in your combat stats (Attack, Strength, Defense, Ranged, and Hitpoints). Some ideal methods for training combat are:
Melee: Start at the cow field near Lumbridge and then progress to Monks in Edgeville Monastery. After level 40, head to Flesh Crawlers in the Stronghold of Security.
Ranged: Begin with cows and monks, then progress to Wizards and Dark Wizards. After level 40, you can continue training at Minotaurs or Flesh Crawlers in the Stronghold.
2. Level Up Magic
F2P players should aim for 55 Magic to unlock High Alchemy and several useful teleport spells. High arching becomes a crucial moneymaking method later on, while teleports significantly improve navigation around the game world.
To train Magic efficiently:
Start with Wind Strike at Lumbridge on cows.
At level 17, use Wind Bolt on Hill Giants, and at level 33, use Telekinetic Grab on Hobgoblins (behind the Crafting Guild) or Lesser Demons in the Wizard's Tower.
1. Save Up Money
Finally, saving up money is one of the most essential goals before becoming a member. A Bond costs approximately 9 million gold, and saving up that amount will take time. Here are some profitable F2P moneymaking methods:
Crafting jewelry: A reliable method for some consistent profit.
High arching: Find OSRS items that yield a decent profit when matched.
Making pie shells or cooking pizzas: These can be profitable and serve as good training methods.
Making dyes: With some creativity, dye-making can be a lucrative skill.
Once you've saved enough gold, you can either purchase a Bond from the Grand Exchange or buy membership with real-world currency. Either way, this will help you access member content, where even more opportunities await.
Conclusion
Before diving into membership, make sure to accomplish these tasks to ensure a smoother transition into P2P. Whether you're completing quests, leveling up combat skills, or saving up for that first Bond, every bit of preparation counts. With a solid foundation in F2P, you'll be ready to tackle the expansive world of OSRS membership and all the benefits it brings!