RuneScape Game Bar: An Official Toolbar for RS Players

August 27^th, 2010 - JagexLtd announced the much anticipated arrival of the "RuneScape Game Bar," a browser toolbar available for download on the official RuneScape (RS) website, full of perks and features sure to please any RuneScape fan. Free to install and available on Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox and Safari according to the news announcement, the RuneScape Game Bar has a variety of additional features already being discussed on the official forum thread.

The Game Bar features information about the "Grand Exchange," the in-game auction house where players buy and sell items in exchange of currency. Previously, players were required to visit either the "Grand Exchange" auction house or a nearby Bank to receive an update about lots for sale or with bids. With either option, players were required to log-in to RuneScape to receive an update.

Another feature which hasRS fans excited about the new Game Bar is the "reminders" for repeatable content. Mini-games are a popular feature of RuneScape, and the reset timers between availability of these features differ from content to content and are often burdensome to track. Now, players can monitor their cool-down timers on these favorite features using the official RuneScape Game Bar, rather than being forced to log-in and visit the locations of each independent feature for an update.

Players can also keep up with official RuneScape news feeds, enjoy quick-links to the RuneScape forums and game guides, or access the "Adventure's Log" without having to log-in to the MMO or visit the official RuneScape website. A handy "Play Now" button allows gamers quick access to the game-and a constant reminder to patron the MMO-although this feature is likely more of a subliminal message than an exceptionally convenient perk. The built-in search bar gives players additional access to the RuneScape information they require at accelerated availability.

RuneScape is one of the most popular free-to-play MMO (massive multiplayer online) video games available, in part due to the frequent and free updates made available to players. The RuneScape Game Bar is just the latest example of Jagex Ltd listening to the requests-or demands-of the fan base, and working to give players the new features and perks which set RS apart from other free-to-play alternatives. As a long-time player I am pleased to see the RuneScape powers-that-be continuing with this legacy of fantastic freebies, though I would venture to say my husband-the true RuneScape addict in our household-was even more excited than I was with this latest content.

Sources:
RuneScape News, "RuneScape Game Bar"