The OSRS Combat Triangle Explained Simply (Melee, Ranged, Magic)

New to Old School RuneScape or just need a refresher on the basics? Understanding the Combat Triangle is fundamental to succeeding in both Player vs. Monster (PvM) and Player vs. Player (PvP) combat. It governs how effective different attack styles are against various opponent defences.

Getting it right means dealing more damage and taking less in return. Getting it wrong can lead to frustratingly slow kills or quick deaths!

The Basic Principle: Rock, Paper, Scissors

Think of the OSRS Combat Triangle like a simple game of Rock, Paper, Scissors:

1. Melee is strong against Ranged. (Warriors chop down Archers)
2. Ranged is strong against Magic. (Archers shoot Mages from afar)
3. Magic is strong against Melee. (Mages freeze or blast heavily armoured Warriors)

In more technical terms:

• Melee attacks are generally more accurate against opponents wearing Ranged armour (like D'hide).
• Ranged attacks are generally more accurate against opponents wearing Magic armour (like Robes).
• Magic attacks are generally more accurate against opponents wearing Melee armour (like Rune or Dragon).

Why Does It Matter in PvM?

Most monsters in OSRS have specific weaknesses dictated by the Combat Triangle. Exploiting these weaknesses is key to efficient killing:

• Fighting Dragons: Dragons primarily use Melee and Dragonfire. They wear tough, metal hides (like Melee armour). Therefore, Magic is often less effective, while Ranged (with anti-dragon bolts) or specific anti-dragon Melee weapons (like Lance/Hasta) are preferred.
• Fighting Mages: Monsters that primarily use Magic (like Dagannoth Supreme or Chaos Fanatic) often have low Ranged defence. Using Ranged against them is usually the most effective strategy.
• Fighting Rangers: Monsters using primarily Ranged attacks (like Armadyl minions or Jad healers) often have lower Melee defence. Closing the distance and using Melee is typically best.

Exceptions Exist: Some monsters break the rules or have unique defence mechanics (like Zulrah's phases or Vorkath's varied attacks), but the triangle holds true as a general guideline for most creatures. Always check the OSRS Wiki for specific monster weaknesses!

How It Applies in PvP

The Combat Triangle is even more critical in PvP, where players actively switch gear and prayers to counter their opponent:

• If someone is wearing Melee armour (like Torva), a Mage using Magic spells will have an advantage.
• If someone is attacking you with Ranged while wearing D'hide, switching to Melee gear and attacking them back is often effective.
• Prayers add another layer: Protect from Melee/Missiles/Magic prayers block damage from that style, forcing players to switch attack styles to break through.

Mastering gear switches and prayer flicks based on the Combat Triangle is essential for high-level PvP.

Conclusion: Know Your Strengths

Understanding the Combat Triangle is a simple but powerful piece of knowledge in OSRS. Always consider your opponent's likely attack style and armour type when choosing your own gear and attack method. Exploiting weaknesses will lead to faster kills, less supply usage, and overall more successful PvM and PvP encounters.

Need the gear to effectively utilize all corners of the triangle? Check out our fast OSRS Gold or our Gear Progression Guide.

Now go forth and choose your attack style wisely!