RuneScape 3 Players Vote Out Treasure Hunter: Microtransactions Ending Soon

Jagex has confirmed that Treasure Hunter microtransactions will be removed from RuneScape 3 on January 19, 2026, following a massive community vote. More than 120,000 players backed the decision, easily surpassing the 100,000 vote threshold required to make the change official.

Treasure Hunter Microtransactions Axed From RuneScape 3 | Image via Jagex

Treasure Hunter, introduced back in 2014, has long been a controversial feature. It allowed players to open daily chests for prizes such as XP boosts, in‑game gold, and skilling items. While some keys were given for free, additional ones could be purchased with real money, making it a clear monetisation mechanic.

Starting January 19, not only will Treasure Hunter disappear, but over 225 XP and skilling items tied to it will also be removed. Jagex explained that these items disrupted core gameplay and the player economy, so their removal is part of a broader effort to restore balance.

According to Jagex CEO Jon Bellamy, the removal of Treasure Hunter is just one step in a wider transformation. In a LinkedIn post, he noted that “appointment‑based mechanics” and “daily login incentives” will also be taken out, as the studio shifts toward fairness and deeper value for players.

Bellamy added that the company will deliver a Roadmap over the next year, specifically "built around maximizing game integrity."

"I couldn’t be more proud of our team for showing the bravery and love of the game required to make this unprecedented change, and putting integrity and longevity ahead of everything else," Bellamy concluded.

This isn’t the first time Jagex has leaned on community votes to shape its games. Back in 2013, players overwhelmingly supported the launch of Old School RuneScape, and other polls have influenced features like Wilderness and Free Trade. Now, with Treasure Hunter gone, RuneScape 3 is entering what Jagex calls a “new era.”