Jagex's level of RuneScape gold involvement in the game in general has also seemed to radically increase. Laissez-Faire sport development, where mechanics and items are thrust into the match and not touched , ruled for several decades. Multiple mechanical issues led, like the once gigantic imbalance of Melee/Range/Mage combat designs and skills being entirely unprofitable. Only recently has Jagex appeared to take a critical look at game mechanisms, and work on polishing them. Melee weapons with fix prices equivalent to the bolt/rune use of the other battle styles does a great deal to even the financial area. Range and Magic also have seen measures required to boost their efficiency, with things like the Staff of Lighting and Ava's Accumulator published. Versatility, after Melee's great strength, has also been given to these failed combat styles. The release of crossbows and 1h Ranged weapons made the style usable in much more scenarios, such as against dragonfire. Magic remains in a poor place, inducing certain benefits Ranged has like cheap equipment and ammunition, but measures are being taken.
Many, many abilities have also been overhauled to make them more attractive. The formerly entirely useless Smithing received integration to many items, such as Godswords and Dragonfire Shields. Additionally, the release of this workshop helped combat sky high training costs. Herblore is probably the most visible example, having become nearly as essential for endgame content as Summoning. In truth, just Firemaking remains entirely useless.
A number of these modifications are fueled by information mined by Jagex from the Grand Exchange, one of the largest steps ahead in the game's history. Using GE info, Jagex can react to market changes, and consequently design upgrades to fight economic woes.
Moments after RuneScape began
For anybody who is f2p and wants a good way to make money, I worked this out a couple of days ago and have made 2mil in roughly 4 hours. First, visit the Grand Exchange and purchase OSRS Money however many flame runes you need, for 2gp each. Then as soon as you've got your desired amount, visit Aubury's Rune Shop in south-eastern Varrok (fire emblem on map). Trade him, and market all your fire runes to him. Sell per houra bit more than 2k per minute, so an estimated 140k (more if you are fast ) per hour. Total gain per hour: 140k times 3gp is 420k gp per hour (again, speed raises this amount )