RuneScape Group Ironman: Co-op guide

Modified Oct 29, 2024 14:09 IST

RuneScape Group Ironman — RuneScape has introduced a brand-new challenge - Group Ironman. Here's what you need to know (Image via Jagex)

Group Ironman is a brand-new challenge in RuneScape — now players can team up — for the fans of hardcore self-sufficiency. Instead of doing it alone, you can do it in a group, which, while sounds easier, can be a whole new level of difficulty. Instead of only relying on your work and skills, now you have to determine a division of labor and ensure everyone works together. It sounds like it will be really simple, but without people you trust, nothing can be further from the truth.

RuneScape has had quite a few noteworthy updates this year, such as the Combat Update, and now there’s this enticing Group Ironman mode for the classic MMORPG. If you want to know how to start, here are some tips for being successful.

How to get started in Group Ironman in RuneScape

To start in Group Ironman in RuneScape, you need an account that hasn’t moved beyond initial character creation. However, Ironman players can switch to Group as well, but this change cannot be reversed.

Are you taking it easy? Or are you seeking glory? (Image via Jagex)

When asked for your Game Mode in this classic MMO, choose Group Ironman, and after customization, you’ll be asked about your experience with the game. If you want to just dive right in, which I imagine most people will want to do, choose “I have played very recently.”

When you’re in the Iron Enclave, begin working on your group. You should see a “Create Group” tab on the screen, and you’ll have to decide if your group goal is just a regular Group Ironman Ruleset challenge in RuneScape, or if it will be competitive. Make sure your group agrees on this before getting started.

Then, just name your group. You don’t have to have everyone online at the same time — you can return to the Iron Enclave to add party members. Once you’ve taken these steps, you’re ready to adventure as a group! Your party can be between two and five people, so gather up some friends and get ready for a new challenge!

Tips for Group Ironman in RuneScape

There are a few ways you can improve your chances in Group Ironman in RuneScape. One of the best things you can do is divide up the labor. Having every person in the group focus on specific tasks like Herblore/Potions, Fishing/Cooking, and things of that nature. You’ll naturally want your skills at least 70 either way, but having players focus on specific tasks leaves the others to contribute in their own way.

It's all about teamwork and grouping up - but there's no rule against looking cool while doing it (Image via Jagex/@PupRS)

In addition, when picking up quest items, grab extras for your group. Make life a little bit easier for your party when you’re working on something! You also have to keep in mind loot: the player who does the most damage to a single target gets the loot. So, if a specific player is after something in your party, you'll have to adjust your tactics accordingly to ensure they get the item they need. Also, make sure you can trust the people in your party.

Everyone has access to a shared Storage Bank, and anyone in the party can deposit/withdraw from it. You only get 80 spaces at first, but by completing a variety of tasks, this can increase, making life just a bit easier. There are also a few things you can do early to get ready.

Heading to the Barbarian Village’s Stronghold of Security is a good idea, to grab 10,000 coins, and some cosmetics, if you’d like. Then, head to the Varrock Museum for an easy 9,000 Slayer XP by completing the Natural History Quiz. The hardest part will likely be balancing combat XP.

While in a group you’re safer than normal since you have allies to help. However, the XP will be slimmer because everyone is hitting the same target; thus, the potential amount of combat XP gained is lower. It’s all about finding balance.

Check out our other RuneScape guides

Edited by Angad Sharma