Ironman mode is RuneScape at its rawest and rewarding. There's no marketplace safety net, no "just buy it"option, and no one to RuneScape gold carry you. Every upgrade is earned. Every item is gathered. Every boss is conquered solo.
The early game can be a grind, but it's also where your path is forged. By focusing on efficient questing, self-sufficient resource gathering, skill synergy, and smart combat training, you'll set the groundwork for long-term success.
Whether your end goal is to complete the Achievement Diary, kill Zulrah, or simply enjoy the satisfaction of progressing without help, Ironman mode turns every milestone into a major victory.
Stay patient, stay organized, and enjoy the journey.
Old School RuneScape's Ironman mode transforms the traditional MMO experience into a grueling, highly rewarding solo adventure. In this self-sufficient playstyle, players are barred from trading, using the Grand Exchange, or relying on assistance from others. Every item, piece of gear, and coin must be earned through your own sweat, strategy, and skill.
Understand the Different Ironman Modes
Before jumping in, it's vital to understand the different Ironman variants:
Ironman – The standard mode. No trading or Grand Exchange access. All progress must be earned solo.
Hardcore Ironman (HCIM) – Same restrictions as regular Ironman, but with one twist: death is permanent. If you die, your account is downgraded to a normal Ironman.
Ultimate Ironman (UIM) – The most hardcore variant. No trading, no banking. All your items must be carried in your inventory or stored in your Player-Owned House.
This guide primarily focuses on standard Ironman, but many tips apply to HCIM and UIM as well, particularly in the early game, where survival and efficient resource gathering are key.
Survive the Early Game: Build a Strong Foundation
Why the Early Game Matters
In Ironman mode, the early game determines whether you thrive or fall behind. With no market to lean on, your priority is building a sustainable system for acquiring gear, food, experience, and resources.
Start with Key Quests
Early questioning is your best friend. Quests provide crucial experience boosts, unlock new areas, and grant powerful items. Here are a few you should prioritize:
Cook's Assistant – A simple intro quest that introduces you to OSRS's mechanics and cooking system.
Doric's Quest – Grants Mining XP and access to Doric's anvil for smithing.
The Restless Ghost – An easy way to get early Prayer XP.
Imp Catcher – Provides essential runes to kickstart your Magic training.
Rune Mysteries – Unlocks Runecrafting, a core skill for self-sustained magic use.
The Grand Tree – Grants access to the Gnome Stronghold and a nice agility boost.
Lost City – Essential for using the Dragon longsword and entering Zanaris.
Completing these quests early sets up your account with skills, access to important zones, and the infrastructure needed for more difficult challenges ahead.
Create a Sustainable Resource Gathering Loop
You'll be relying on your own skills to acquire everything from logs to armor, so it's crucial to start training resource-gathering skills right away.
For many, this is the purest way to play OSRS. But while the rewards are satisfying, Ironman mode is also significantly more challenging, especially during the early stages. Surviving the early game is all about making smart choices, building a strong foundation, and using your time wisely.
This guide outlines the most important early game tips, methods, and progression strategies every Ironman should know to set themselves up for buy Runescape gold long-term success.