Old School RuneScape is the 2013 fork of a 2007 backup of RuneScape, and it is not a mode inside RuneScape 3. Separate servers, separate accounts, separate membership, separate high scores. Steam app 1343370 is Jagex's official client for it rather than a distinct game, and the client is free while membership is not. Jagex polls new content to paying members and needs 70 percent yes to pass, a bar lowered from 75 percent at the end of 2022, which is why the game still plays like 2007 with two decades of member approved additions layered on.
Boss fights are where Old School RuneScape tests everything you've learned. This guide covers strategies for bosses across all areas, organized by progression order. For general combat techniques, see our combat guide.
Boss Difficulty Overview
| Area | Difficulty | Recommended Build | Key Equipment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lumbridge | Easy | Ranged training | Toxic blowpipe |
| Varrock | Moderate | Ranged training | Toxic blowpipe |
| Great Kourend | Hard | Melee training | Abyssal whip |
| Varlamore | Very Hard | Melee training | Abyssal whip |
| The Wilderness | Extreme | Melee training | Abyssal whip |
Lumbridge Bosses
Area difficulty: Easy Recommended level: Combat levels 3 to 20 Recommended build: Ranged training with Toxic blowpipe
Strategy
The first bosses teach core combat mechanics. Focus on learning patterns rather than dealing damage. There is no level 120 and no Invention here. This is your primary tool here.
Key tips:
- Don't rush. Learn the attack patterns first.
- Use Twenty four skills, every one capped at 99 to create safe windows.
- Toxic blowpipe is enough to handle everything here.
Varrock Bosses
Area difficulty: Moderate Recommended level: Combat levels 20 to 60 Recommended build: Ranged training with Toxic blowpipe
Strategy
Early game bosses test your understanding of Content polls needing 70 percent yes. Players who skipped learning this mechanic will hit a wall here.
Key tips:
- Content polls needing 70 percent yes is critical for these fights.
- Farm Toxic blowpipe upgrades if you're struggling.
- Consider switching to Ranged training if your current setup isn't working.
Great Kourend Bosses
Area difficulty: Hard Recommended level: Members content from roughly combat level 60 upward Recommended build: Melee training with Abyssal whip
Strategy
Mid-game bosses are the major skill check. They combine multiple mechanics and punish players who rely on a single strategy.
Key tips:
- You need both Twenty four skills, every one capped at 99 and Tick based combat on a 0.6 second tick mastery.
- Abyssal whip makes a significant difference. Get it before attempting these.
- See our combat guide for advanced techniques.
Varlamore Bosses
Area difficulty: Very Hard Recommended level: Members content, mid to high level Recommended build: Melee training with Abyssal whip
Strategy
Late-game bosses are serious challenges. Build optimization matters as much as mechanical skill.
Key tips:
- Make sure your build is fully optimized.
- Abyssal whip at max upgrade is recommended.
- Study each boss's attack patterns. Most have 2-3 phases.
The Wilderness Bosses
Area difficulty: Extreme Recommended level: Any combat level, but realistically 70 or above to survive Recommended build: Melee training with Abyssal whip
Strategy
Endgame bosses are the ultimate test. They require mastery of all combat systems and an optimized build.
Key tips:
- Top-tier build with best-in-slot gear is mandatory.
- Master every mechanic. See our combat guide.
- These fights reward patience and pattern recognition above all else.
General Boss Tips
- Learn before you fight: Spend your first attempt observing attack patterns. Don't try to win on attempt one.
- Match your build: Some bosses favor certain builds over others. Don't be afraid to switch.
- Upgrade your equipment: A max-upgraded Abyssal whip trivializes fights that seem impossible with weaker gear.
- Use Twenty four skills, every one capped at 99: The core combat mechanic is your best defensive tool in every boss fight.
- Check the walkthrough: Our walkthrough tells you when you're ready for each boss.
More Old School RuneScape Guides
- Old School RuneScape Old School RuneScape Overview
- Old School RuneScape Best Builds
- Old School RuneScape Tier List
- Old School RuneScape Walkthrough
- Old School RuneScape Beginner's Guide
- Old School RuneScape Tips & Tricks
- Old School RuneScape Weapons Guide
- Old School RuneScape Combat Guide
- Old School RuneScape Maps & Locations
- Old School RuneScape Crafting Guide
- Old School RuneScape Classes & Characters
Similar Games
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- New World: Aeternum Boss Guide: mmo game with similar mechanics
- Lost Ark Boss Guide: mmo game with similar mechanics
- The Elder Scrolls Online Boss Guide: mmo game with similar mechanics
