Runescape has always filled a niche within the MMORPG community.
Why OSRS is surviving and thriving:
1. OSRS is a game loved because it allows people to progress slowly without the need/dependent for group interaction. Unlike MMO like World of Warcraft that require strict raiding and arena scheduling in order to access end game content, OSRS has a sandbox gameplay that lets busy people pick up and play whenever they have time. So it’s ideal for “dad gamers” or university students.
2. due to the basic mechanics, the game doesn’t follow super skill driven ability to access end game content or flex prestigious accomplishments. Think about it, the most prestigious items in OSRS are locked behind time played, rather than skill. Of course there a few exceptions (inferno). The truth is, if you play long enough, you will hit some big milestones no matter how you play.
3. The accessibility mobile provides is amazing. Most games turn console/ pc games into mobile games, OSRS turned its PC game into a mobile game with full access. You can access all content on mobile, and play beside a PC player. The barrier to entry lowered a lot.