Funcom sends word that tomorrow marks the fifth anniversary of the release of Age of Conan, surprising us with a reminder of how long their barbaric MMORPG has been running. They are celebrating the occasion with special in-game events as well as changes to how member accounts progress going forward. All the details can be found on this page, and here's an overview:

Come join the celebration of Age of Conan’s 5th year anniversary, starting Thursday the 23rd of May 4pm CET/10am EST! The world of Hyboria is being invaded by huge boss monsters for five days in a row. Everyone can join in the fight against the creatures and have a chance of earning great rewards if the massive monsters are defeated.

But the in-game event is just one part of the anniversary celebration. Membership in Age of Conan: Unchained is getting greatly improved. All characters on Member accounts will now receive the Blessing of Asura item, which doubles experience points from killing monsters for one hour per day. They also earn one Alternate Advancement point, which can be spent at level 80 to learn handy abilities, for each level they gain. In addition Members more than triple the amount of Bonus Points they receive each month, which can be spent in the Item Shop, and still of course retain all previous benefits Membership entailed.

Everyone will also be receiving several gifts during the celebration, which among other things include Access Passes to Khitai – the great lands to the east, introduced through the Rise of the Godslayer expansion.