How to Change Your Display Name on RuneScape: A Comprehensive Guide

RuneScape, a beloved massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG), has captivated players for over two decades. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a newcomer to Gielinor, one thing remains constant: your display name is a core part of your identity within the game. Your display name is how other players know you, how you’re addressed, and how you establish your presence in the vast world of RuneScape. Over time, you might find that your current display name no longer suits you, or you may simply wish to refresh your online persona. Luckily, RuneScape offers a way to change your display name, albeit with some specific rules and processes. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about changing your display name on RuneScape, including both Old School RuneScape (OSRS) and RuneScape 3 (RS3).

Why Change Your RuneScape Display Name?

Before we dive into the ‘how,’ let’s explore some common reasons why players choose to change their display names:

• Personal Evolution: As you grow and change as a person, your online persona might need an update to reflect your current tastes and preferences.
• Humorous Names: Perhaps you chose a silly or immature name when you were younger. Now, you’re looking for something more serious or fitting to your gameplay style.
• Tired of Your Old Name: Sometimes, you simply get tired of your old name and want a fresh start.
• Name Clashes: You might discover that another player has a similar name, leading to confusion or impersonation issues.
• New Guild or Clan: Joining a new clan or guild might prompt a name change to better align with their theme or naming conventions.
• Improved In-Game Identity: You might desire a name that showcases your skills, achievements, or preferred gameplay style.

Understanding the Rules Before You Change Your Name

RuneScape’s display name system is designed to maintain a friendly and respectful environment. Before you initiate a name change, it’s crucial to understand the rules and restrictions. Failure to adhere to these rules can result in your name change request being denied or even lead to temporary or permanent account bans. Here are the key guidelines:

• Availability: The name you choose must be available. If another player is already using that name, you won’t be able to use it.
• Character Limits: Display names must adhere to character limits. RuneScape typically allows 1-12 characters for a display name, but you should ensure the name complies with current limitations as this can change.
• Profanity and Offensive Language: Your display name cannot contain profanity, offensive language, or any terms that could be considered hateful or discriminatory. This includes thinly veiled attempts at such language.
• Personal Information: You should avoid including personal information like your real name, address, phone number, etc., in your display name. This is for your own safety and privacy.
• Impersonation: You cannot use a name that is likely to impersonate or cause confusion with an official Jagex staff member or another player.
• Advertising: Display names cannot promote or advertise external products, websites, or services.
• Random Characters: Display names consisting of random characters or sequences of numbers are typically not allowed.
• Misspelled Words: Using intentionally misspelled words to bypass filter restrictions will not be tolerated.
• Repeated or Unnecessary Characters: Names with repeating characters or unnecessary symbols can be rejected.

Jagex, the developers of RuneScape, have the final say on what is deemed acceptable. If you’re unsure about a particular name, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and choose something that is clearly within the rules.

How to Change Your Display Name on RuneScape

The process for changing your display name is relatively straightforward, and it applies similarly across both RuneScape 3 and Old School RuneScape. You will need an active RuneScape account to do this.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Log into Your RuneScape Account:

   Start by logging into your RuneScape account on the official RuneScape website or through the game client (either for RuneScape 3 or Old School RuneScape). Make sure you’re logged in to the specific account for which you want to change the display name.

2. Access the Account Settings:

   Once logged in, you will need to find your account settings. The method of access varies slightly between versions:

   • RuneScape 3 (RS3):
     • Click on the ‘Game Settings’ icon. This icon is typically found on the bottom of the screen or the top right and may resemble a gear or cog.
     • In the game settings menu, click on the ‘Account’ or ‘Account Settings’ option, where you can manage your account preferences.
   • Old School RuneScape (OSRS):
     • Look for the wrench icon in your side panel. Click it to access the ‘Settings’ interface.
     • Within the ‘Settings’, navigate to the ‘Account’ section by clicking the corresponding tab.

3. Find the ‘Change Display Name’ Option:

   Within the ‘Account Settings’, you’ll see various options. Look for the ‘Change Display Name’ or similar option. The exact wording may vary, but it should be easily identifiable. Once located, click or select this option.

4. Enter Your Desired New Display Name:

   A text box or input field will appear, prompting you to enter your new display name. Type in the name you would like to use. Remember to carefully review your spelling before proceeding.

5. Check Availability:

   After entering your desired name, the system will perform a check to see if the name is available according to the rules. You may see a message indicating whether the name is valid, available, or if it has been rejected.

6. Follow On-Screen Prompts:

   If your name is available and within the guidelines, the system will ask you to confirm your name change. You will often be presented with a confirmation dialogue or button to finalise the process. Double-check the new name and ensure you’re satisfied before clicking the confirmation option.

7. Complete the Process:

   Once you’ve confirmed, the system will process your name change. Usually, the change occurs immediately, or you may be asked to log out and back in for the change to take full effect. If successful, your new display name will be visible to you and other players in RuneScape.

Important Considerations During the Change

• Uniqueness: Ensure that your new name is unique and not easily confused with other players. Use a name that clearly distinguishes you and aligns with the game’s rules.
• Think it Through: While the name change process is generally quick and easy, you should consider your choice carefully because there might be a cooldown period after you change it before you can do so again.
• Check Availability Thoroughly: If the name is taken, continue to think of alternatives and check each alternative to ensure it isn’t also taken. The system will not give you a list of ‘similar’ names to choose from, so you need to come up with new ideas.
• Avoid Trends: Consider avoiding trendy names because, over time, you may want to change it again. Classic or creative names can be more timeless.
• Relevance to Your Character: Think about whether your new display name is relevant to your character or gameplay style, if it matters to you. If you are a hard-core PvPer, for example, it might be better to have a different name to someone who enjoys skilling.

How Much Does It Cost to Change Your RuneScape Display Name?

Changing your display name on RuneScape is generally free. The process outlined above does not usually require any in-game currency or real-world money. However, Jagex may occasionally introduce limitations or specific requirements, so it’s always a good idea to verify the current policy on the official RuneScape website. It’s also worth mentioning that if you are under account restrictions for any reason you might not be able to change your name at that time.

What If Your Name Change Request is Denied?

If your chosen display name is rejected, it will be for one of the reasons outlined above in the ‘Understanding the Rules’ section. You will need to review your intended name and try again with something different that fits within the criteria. If you believe your name was unfairly rejected, you can often reach out to Jagex support to explain your case. However, the final decision will usually be Jagex’s.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some frequently asked questions about changing your display name in RuneScape:

Q: How often can I change my display name?

A: Generally, you can change your display name reasonably frequently. However, Jagex may implement a cooldown period, usually a few weeks, after you change your name before you can do so again. Check the current rules on the RuneScape website or your in-game account page for the most up-to-date information.

Q: Can I change my display name on my mobile device?

A: Yes, the process is largely the same across both desktop and mobile clients. You can use the mobile app for both RuneScape 3 and Old School RuneScape to change your display name by accessing your account settings.

Q: Can I use special characters in my display name?

A: Typically, special characters (other than letters and numbers) are not allowed in RuneScape display names. Stick to standard alphanumeric characters for the best chance of success.

Q: Can I revert back to my old display name if I don’t like the new one?

A: If your old display name is still available, you can change back to it using the regular name change process. However, you might need to wait for any cooldown periods to expire before doing so.

Q: What happens if my name is deemed offensive after I have changed it?

A: Jagex monitors player names and if they find your name is deemed offensive or against their terms and conditions, they may force you to change it or they could temporarily or permanently ban your account. It’s always best to choose a name that is appropriate at the start of the process.

Q: Will I lose any progress or items if I change my display name?

A: No, changing your display name is purely cosmetic and will not affect your character’s stats, inventory, or any other game-related progress. You will continue to play from where you left off, but with your new display name visible to other players.

Conclusion

Changing your display name in RuneScape is a simple yet significant way to update your online persona and improve your in-game experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide and adhering to Jagex’s rules, you can easily choose a name that suits you and reflects your evolving identity within the game. Remember to choose a name that is memorable, meaningful, and respectful to the community. Now, go forth, adventurer, and create a name that will be remembered throughout Gielinor!