Early success for Age of Conan

Funcom has announced some encouraging results for its upcoming title Age of Conan: Hyborian Adventures.

Developed in combination association with Midway Games, the title has secured more than 500,000 online gamers – all of whom are either part of the ongoing beta test or of the Clan of Conan fan club.

"The massive attention Age of Conan is generating throughout the international gaming community is simply amazing," said Funcom chief executive, Trond Arne Aas.

"The game seems to be already striking a chord with gamers across the world and we are thrilled and motivated by all the positive feedback we have been getting from both the press and the community."

Funcom is responding to the game's growing popularity by introducing websites and forums for the English, German, French and Spanish markets, in order to support the launch in all of these territories.

The growing popularity of the title will hopefully allow Funcom to thoroughly test numerous aspects of the game, and contribute to a smoother launch and a more enjoyable gaming experience from day one.

However, the development of the game appears to be taking its toll on the company.

Reporting its financial results for the last quarter of 2007, Funcom posted revenues 19 per cent down on those for the same period in 2006.

Yet, the company was unconcerned as the cost of developing its flagship Conan title should be recouped when the title is released in mid-April and subscriptions begin to roll in.