This guide primarily focuses on RuneScape gold standard Ironman, but many tips apply to HCIM and UIM as well, particularly in the early game, where survival and efficient resource gathering are key.

Survive the Early Game: Build a Strong Foundation

Why the Early Game Matters

In Ironman mode, the early game determines whether you thrive or fall behind. With no market to lean on, your priority is building a sustainable system for acquiring gear, food, experience, and resources.

Start with Key Quests

Early questioning is your best friend. Quests provide crucial experience boosts, unlock new areas, and grant powerful items. Here are a few you should prioritize:

Cook's Assistant – A simple intro quest that introduces you to OSRS's mechanics and cooking system.

Doric's Quest – Grants Mining XP and access to Doric's anvil for smithing.

The Restless Ghost – An easy way to get early Prayer XP.

Imp Catcher – Provides essential runes to kickstart your Magic training.

Rune Mysteries – Unlocks Runecrafting, a core skill for self-sustained magic use.

The Grand Tree – Grants access to the Gnome Stronghold and a nice agility boost.

Lost City – Essential for using the Dragon longsword and entering Zanaris.

Completing these quests early sets up your account with skills, access to important zones, and the infrastructure needed for more difficult challenges ahead.

Create a Sustainable Resource Gathering Loop

You'll be relying on your own skills to acquire everything from logs to armor, so it's crucial to start training resource-gathering skills right away.

Woodcutting & Firemaking

Start with the trees around Lumbridge or Draynor. Logs can be burned for Firemaking or fletched into arrows later on. Train both skills simultaneously for efficiency.
Fishing & Cooking

Food is critical for Ironman accounts. Train Fishing and Cooking together to secure a renewable food supply. Start with shrimp and anchovies, and move toward trout and salmon through fly fishing.
Mining & Smithing

Mine copper and tin to make bronze equipment. Eventually, you'll move on to iron, steel, and mithril. Prioritize early smithing levels so you can craft your own gear instead of relying on monster drops.
Crafting

Gather cowhides from cows near Lumbridge, tan them, and craft leather gear. It's an easy and efficient way to train Crafting while preparing early armor.
Herblore

Herblore is often overlooked early, but becomes crucial for cheap OSRS GP creating potions. After completing the Druidic Ritual, start farming herbs and making potions when possible. Strength and Prayer potions will significantly improve your early combat performance.