In a world dominated by high-octane PvM and flashy loot drops, it's easy to forget that skilling in Old School RuneScape (OSRS) still has the potential to be incredibly lucrative. But every now and then, a perfect storm of updates, market trends, OSRS gold and game mechanics comes together to remind us just how powerful a well-timed grind can be. One such example is unfolding right now-with blood runes, RuneCrafting, and the Yama boss update colliding in what can only be described as a skiller's dream.

Blood Runes: From Mundane to Money-Maker

Let's start with the numbers. Blood runes, once a steady but unremarkable income source, are currently sitting at over 300 GP each-a price point we haven't consistently seen in years. In fact, since 2022, they hovered around the 200 GP mark, making them profitable but not game-changing. But as of May 2025, they've surged to levels not seen since the early OSRS era. Why?

The answer lies in the upcoming Yama boss-a new endgame challenge arriving on May 14th that promises to shake up both PvM metas and item economies. The star drop? The Oath Plate armor set, which is best-in-slot for slash-based melee, and a dream pairing with none other than the Scythe of Vitur.

Scythe Surge and Blood Rune Demand

If you've kept an eye on the Scythe of Vitur lately, you'll know its price has gone ballistic. From 1.2 billion GP to 1.7 billion GP, it is once again the most expensive mega-rare in the game. This isn't just speculative hype either-it's directly tied to the Yama update and the new armor that's poised to redefine melee combat. And because the Scythe chews through blood runes at an alarming rate, the demand for them has gone through the roof.

The Method: AFK Blood RuneCrafting for Millions

Using the Blood Altar via the Abyss, outfitted with the Ring of the Elements, Daeyalt essence, and the powerful Robe of the Eye outfit, significantly boosted  rune yield. The Robe of the Eye provides a massive 60% increase in crafted runes, making every inventory substantially more profitable.

While the essence used does not improve XP rates, it amplifies profits drastically. Despite the relaxed pace, the results speak for themselves.

Blood Rune Economics: Boom or Bust?

The big question is: what happens after May 14th?

While blood rune prices are spiking now, thanks to speculators and players stocking up for the Yama grind.

It's a valid concern. Historically, big content drops often result in a surge of activity followed by rapid decline as the playerbase adjusts. If the Yama boss drops become too common or not as profitable as expected, or if players simply burn out, the blood rune market could deflate overnight.

Still, there's a chance it plays out differently this time. If the boss becomes a long-term money-maker and demand for Scythe and Oath Plate stays high, blood runes could maintain their elevated value.RuneCrafting: Still a Skiller's Paradise

This story is more than just a market commentary-it's a reminder that RuneCrafting remains one of the most profitable skills in OSRS, especially for players willing to plan ahead. While it's slower and less glamorous than bossing, it rewards consistency and timing like no other.

Back then, PvM barely existed. Slayer wasn't even a thing. Instead, the economy was built around raw resources-flax, logs, ore. Today, it feels like most skilling methods are just a means to an end: get 99 and move on.

But RuneCrafting bucks that trend. It's one of the few remaining skills where training the skill itself can make you rich, not just serve as a stepping stone. And that, No Help argues, is something worth preserving.

Skilling in the Modern Game: A Call for Balance

As OSRS continues to evolve, balancing the profitability of skilling versus PvM remains a constant challenge. PvM is undeniably more exciting, more rewarding, and more popular. But when skilling methods like blood rune crafting get their moment in the spotlight, it reinvigorates a segment of the game that often gets ignored.

Other than a few niches like amethyst mining or high-level herb running, the average gathering skill has fallen by the wayside. But that doesn't mean skilling can't be revitalized that when done right, it can still be wildly profitable and satisfying.

Should You Jump In?

If you're sitting on a high RuneCrafting level, now is a great time to cash in. Even if you're not, it's worth considering the investment. Blood rune crafting is accessible from level 77 with the Arceuus favor and can be even more efficient with the right gear and essence.

Here's a quick checklist to maximize profits:

·Robe of the Eye Outfit - Boosts rune yield by 60%

·Pickaxe and Chisel - Optional but helpful for AFK method

·Blood Essence - Purchased from GE, adds significant rune bonus

·Abyssal Access - For quicker runs to the altar

·Watch Market Trends - Sell at peak or hold post-update

·Whether you want to passively build a bank or actively prepare for the Yama grind, blood rune crafting is a solid way to ride the wave.

Final Thoughts

In a game so often driven by bosses, raids, and RNG, there's something satisfying about making bank with your own hands-one inventory at a time.

So, are you crafting blood runes? Are you stockpiling or cashing out? The update is just around the corner, and how you play it could define your gold stack for months to come. Sometimes,you can grow fast by cheap OSRS gold.

Either way, RuneCrafting isn't dead-it's thriving. And in 2025, that's something worth celebrating.