The RuneScape community was rocked this week after a controversial Conjoint Membership Survey caused widespread frustration, anger, and concern among players. In response, the development team has issued an official apology, admitting to serious misjudgments in the survey’s design and intent.
A Clumsy Approach Causes Outrage
The developers admitted they failed to consider the survey from the players’ perspective. “We got caught up in research mode and rushing a project with a research partner,” the apology reads. What was intended as a way to explore various subscription options turned into a PR disaster, with players interpreting some of the suggestions as threats to the integrity of the game.
The survey included ideas such as:
- In-game ads
- Reduced AFK timers for lower-cost memberships
- Additional charges for improved player support
These suggestions alarmed the community, leading to accusations of a potential betrayal of trust and the game’s core principles. “Even the mere suggestion of these ideas undermined your trust in us,” the statement acknowledged.
Why the Survey Was Conducted
According to the developers, the survey was exploratory, intended to test speculative ideas and gauge player sentiment. However, the random combinations of features and prices presented to participants caused unnecessary worry. No plans were finalized, and “not a single line of code” was written for any of the tested ideas.
Despite these intentions, the community backlash was immediate, with players expressing fears that RuneScape could devolve into a pay-to-play or ad-laden experience.
What the Developers Have Learned
The team says the experience has reinforced their understanding of how much the community values RuneScape’s core principles. They have promised to:
- Halt the survey immediately.
- Never include in-game ads in regular paid memberships (though they may explore ads for Free-to-Play in the future with caution).
- Maintain current AFK timers for all paid memberships.
- Improve player support without introducing additional charges.
Commitment to Core Values
RuneScape’s developers have reaffirmed their dedication to maintaining the integrity of the game. They promised that future decisions will be guided by feedback and crafted with greater care to avoid similar controversies.
“We will never degrade or fundamentally change the gameplay experience on offer between subscribers,” the statement assures.
What’s Next?
The team plans to take more time to reflect on how they approach sensitive topics like membership options. They hope to use the lessons learned from this situation to strengthen their relationship with the community.
A Final Note from the Developers
The apology ends with a heartfelt acknowledgment of the community’s passion and feedback. “RuneScape thrives because of its community, and we remain fully committed to our mission to deepen how we work with players at every level.”
While the controversy has been challenging, the developers believe the honest, unfiltered feedback they’ve received will ultimately help shape a better future for the game.
Stay tuned to GamingHQ for further updates on this evolving story.
