From the RuneScape Wiki, the wiki for all things RuneScape

This article is about certain areas in PvP or Bounty worlds that are considered dangerous. For a pre-defined space in a player-owned house, see Hotspot.

Hot zones are certain areas in RuneScape that are considered very dangerous on PvP worlds, as they are popular for players to come and kill each other. Many of these areas have monsters as well. A "flaming skull" icon will appear on the screen to notify players when they enter these areas.

Hot zones give players an advantage because there is a higher chance for killed opponents to drop better items in these areas, as opposed to killing players outside the hot zones. Hot zones are more dangerous, however, due to the larger number of players in these areas who will hunt almost any players who wander into the area for the improved drops they can get.

Also, Hotspots give more earned potential (EP) than non-hotspots. At a hotspot, you can get a maximum of 25% EP, while a regular spot gives a maximum of 15%.

Hot zones

• East Ardougne
• Edgeville north to Wilderness ditch
• Falador
• Grand Exchange area
• Varrock
• The crossroads of Varrock and Al Kharid
• The entire Wilderness