[2020] Dear Jagex: Thank You.

Jagex, from the bottom of my heart, thank you. While the world experiences something truly once-in-a-generation with the COVID-19 outbreak, and while you yourselves might be impacted by the pandemic, you still brought our community an entirely new skill that will bring many of us excitement for weeks and months to come.

As someone who lives alone and is unable to leave their home due to a compromised immune system, RuneScape has been one of the only ways in which I can consistently connect with others and maintain some sense of social normalcy. The release of Archaeology has led to engagement unlike I have ever seen in the game; discovering the mysteries, the secret [now, not-so-secret] ways in which to access the best content sooner, and the races to 99 and beyond. I have been able to log in every morning and, without fail, I can look forward to spending time with friends throughout the day.

The skill also brought back to the game people who I have not connected with in years, and now we have opportunities to make sure that never happens again. In particular, my first friend in RuneScape (back in the mid late 2000's), we had not seen each other since 2010. More than a decade later, just yesterday, they logged in for the first time, and I got emotional. It was incredible to talk with them, catch up, and explore this incredible new world of Archaeology, together.

If you might be in a similar situation socially right now or down the road, please feel free to reach out (RSN: Gecu). Nobody should ever be alone, especially right now. Let's support each other, get some gains, and we will get through it all. I know it.

This is my first post on Reddit. Not sure exactly why I decided to do this, but it felt right. I am grateful for this community each and every day, and to the entire Jagex family for bringing a world to life. Thank you for bringing me and so many others some joy during these challenging times.

And now, back to the Archaeology grind. Much love,

Gecu <3