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First move against Linux users

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Pale Grog
Dec Member 2023

Pale Grog

Posts: 4 Bronze Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile
Before the concept of "Jagex accounts", you lost nothing if you were a Linux user. This is because you didn't get any benefit from using the "Jagex launcher", for which there are no native versions in Linux. Instead you could, and still can, use the Java-based clients directly without a launcher, and Java is cross-platform so is natively supported by Linux.

But then Jagex decided to reward players for using the Jagex launcher (not sure exactly when they started to do this - I am just starting up again after a year's break). You now get 20 extra bank slots for having a "Jagex account", and hence by using the window-based Jagex launcher.

To be honest, I'm not bothered about the extra 20 slots. The thing that worries me is that this is the first true move against Linux players. I feel that this is the start to abandoning the cross-platform compatibility of the game; e.g., perhaps one day you won't be able to user the Java clients directly?

15-Oct-2023 12:55:26

Applejuiceaj
Nov
fmod Member
2011

Applejuiceaj

Forum Moderator Posts: 44,957 Sapphire Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile
At some point yes, all players will be required to use the Jagex Launcher as Jagex Accounts will become mandatory to use to play RuneScape.

With that in mind, there are ways to run the Jagex Launcher on Linux. While they aren't as ideal as having a native package to install, Linux players can use them in order to use the launcher to play:
https://help.jagex.com/hc/en-gb/articles/13413514881937-Downloading-the-Jagex-Launcher-on-Linux

15-Oct-2023 17:22:10

fmaw NL
Feb Member 2023

fmaw NL

Posts: 10 Bronze Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile
I think this move by Jagex to exclude Linux and leave development to 'the community' is not matching the original philosophy of Runescape. Was this game not meant to run on every device possible?

Even worse is that the game would still technically run on Linux, it's just the launcher that prevents Linux users from getting into the game...

What would it take for Jagex to start supporting Linux?

15-Oct-2023 19:24:30

Applejuiceaj
Nov
fmod Member
2011

Applejuiceaj

Forum Moderator Posts: 44,957 Sapphire Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile
For what its worth, Jagex is aware of the disappointment from players that Linux isn't supported. In their Update on Jagex Accounts they noted:

"Official support for Linux (as a OS) & HDOS (as a game client) were notable reasons that would make players use the Launcher."

And...

"Will there be official support for Linux?

While the Jagex Launcher is not currently supported on Linux, there are some community projects that might help you play and we are reviewing how smoothly these workarounds function. Please head to our dedicated Linux article for more information."


I'm pretty sure the emulated Jagex Launcher is able to launch the native Linux clients (rather than also emulating those); those I know who use Linux for gaming were able to get it working and seemed satisfied with the results, though an official Linux package for the launcher would be preferred.

15-Oct-2023 20:21:07

fmaw NL
Feb Member 2023

fmaw NL

Posts: 10 Bronze Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile
Hi Applejuiceaj, I appreciate the quick and detailed response. I just want to add that I think Jagex would make itself really popular if it would just say:

'WE ARE SUPPORTING LINUX!!!'

I do not know many mmo's that support Linux natively. CCP's EVE Online does not. Blizzard's World of Warcraft does not. ArenaNet's Guild Wars 2 does not.

On the other hand, Valve is making a major push for Linux with Steam's Proton and the Steam deck, so it is possible.

It's just the launcher you have to get working on Linux. The game itself already runs on Linux, as opposed to the other games by other companies I mentioned.

Is it 'just' money holding Jagex back or is it something else?

I'd say, Jagex markets itself as 'inclusive' and 'diverse', so this is a nice opportunity to put your money where your mouth is and gain a lot of goodwill!

15-Oct-2023 20:57:20

Th3 Good Guy

Th3 Good Guy

Posts: 57 Iron Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile
Game developers sometimes make changes to their platforms and systems to improve user experience, security, or other aspects of gameplay. These changes may have unintended consequences for certain users, such as those on Linux or other non-standard platforms. If Jagex has introduced incentives for using the Jagex launcher and Jagex accounts, it may be part of their strategy to streamline user management and provide additional features or security.
Additionally, the RuneScape community is known for being vocal about issues, and feedback from players can have an impact on the decisions made by the developers. So, by discussing your concerns with other players, you may be able to raise awareness and potentially influence the direction Jagex takes regarding Linux support and cross-platform compatibility.
~Th3 Good Guy :)

16-Oct-2023 15:18:10

Pale Grog
Dec Member 2023

Pale Grog

Posts: 4 Bronze Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile
It's a shame that after decades of native Linux support, it's finally going to end. I know there are workarounds for the jagex launcher as detailed on the link https://help.jagex.com/hc/en-gb/articles/13413514881937-Downloading-the-Jagex-Launcher-on-Linux, but also note at the bottom, "Jagex is not responsible for the maintenance and safety of content produced and hosted by third parties and any use of third-party sites is at your own risk"; i.e., it's not conventional and requires a hack.

16-Oct-2023 16:23:41 - Last edited on 16-Oct-2023 16:25:43 by Pale Grog

Th3 Good Guy

Th3 Good Guy

Posts: 57 Iron Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile
Pale Grog said :
It's a shame that after decades of native Linux support, it's finally going to end. I know there are workarounds for the jagex launcher as detailed on the link https://help.jagex.com/hc/en-gb/articles/13413514881937-Downloading-the-Jagex-Launcher-on-Linux, but also note at the bottom, "Jagex is not responsible for the maintenance and safety of content produced and hosted by third parties and any use of third-party sites is at your own risk"; i.e., it's not conventional and requires a hack.


Yeah, im sorry! I hope all works out for you!!! I'd give you suggestions, but you already know what I'd recommend.
Maybe its time to upgrade your PC; I use an HP on windows 11 atm and it runs great even at max settings with the HD plugin enabled on RuneLite. it cost me around 700$ though (Mid range gaming PC) Feel free to contact me if you need guidance on buying a pc if you do! (& dont know what you're looking for, Just contact me on this thread) :) have a great day!!
~Th3 Good Guy :)

16-Oct-2023 17:55:15

Pale Grog
Dec Member 2023

Pale Grog

Posts: 4 Bronze Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile
Th3 Good Guy said :
Pale Grog said :
It's a shame that after decades of native Linux support, it's finally going to end. I know there are workarounds for the jagex launcher as detailed on the link https://help.jagex.com/hc/en-gb/articles/13413514881937-Downloading-the-Jagex-Launcher-on-Linux, but also note at the bottom, "Jagex is not responsible for the maintenance and safety of content produced and hosted by third parties and any use of third-party sites is at your own risk"; i.e., it's not conventional and requires a hack.


Yeah, im sorry! I hope all works out for you!!! I'd give you suggestions, but you already know what I'd recommend.
Maybe its time to upgrade your PC; I use an HP on windows 11 atm and it runs great even at max settings with the HD plugin enabled on RuneLite. it cost me around 700$ though (Mid range gaming PC) Feel free to contact me if you need guidance on buying a pc if you do! (& dont know what you're looking for, Just contact me on this thread) :) have a great day!!


Your response makes no sense at all.

This made me check your previous response (where you sounded like you knew what you were talking about); I put it through an AI detector and it seems like you're using ChatGPT.

Keep at it. I'm sure you'll be a forum mod in no time.

18-Oct-2023 20:59:54

fmaw NL
Feb Member 2023

fmaw NL

Posts: 10 Bronze Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile
Pale Grog said :
Your response makes no sense at all.

This made me check your previous response (where you sounded like you knew what you were talking about); I put it through an AI detector and it seems like you're using ChatGPT.

Keep at it. I'm sure you'll be a forum mod in no time.


I read some other forum posts of TH3 GOOD GUY based on his strange response and something was just not right. Thanks for sharing this!

19-Oct-2023 19:25:58

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