I've closed this thread, as it has evolved into a long-running debate about which game, RS3 or OSRS, is more popular and has the larger playing base. Ultimately, it is a choice for individual players. However, whatever the choice, it is beneficial for Jagex.
2_Tron
said
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Gamers/Players are free to choose which game they prefer and when, because there are many players whom contribute to both versions of RuneScape.
There's nothing toxic other than people who wanna stereotype others.
The OP asked a valid question about whether the online player count was real. The answer has been more than satisfactorily answered by Archaeox, Bruce Waayne and Miu.