Runescape is fifth most popular Yahoo search in 2008

US comeback queen Britney Spears’ eventful year saw her top the listings and be crowned the most hunted online term. WWE was the second most popular search, whilst US president elect Barack Obama and former Hannah Montana star Miley Cyrus captured the third and fourth spots.

Searches lagging behind Runescape included Jessica Alba, manga sensation Naruto, the rehabilitated Lindsay Lohan, lippy Angelina Jolie and North American X-Factor equivalent American Idol.

Of Runescape’s inclusion Yahoo stated: “The multi-player role-playing game's international popularity rests on its cheap access, ability to run on older computers, and compelling play.

“Its underground success has even led to a real black market, trading actual cash for RuneScape gold – and controversial restrictions to stop it. A new boss, graphics, and touted player-versus-player combat release signal the company's power play to step up in the RPG battle and take hold at number five.”