Mechwarrior Online’s premium pre-order Founder’s Programme raised over US$5 million for the free-to-play game, Piranha Games has announced.

The three-tiered Founder’s Programme opened in July and offered closed beta access, an exclusive gametag, premium account access, in-game currency, founder's mechs, and recognition in the game's credits for gold level pledgers.

“The program was a categorical success and we couldn't be happier with the sales and important player feedback we've received," said Piranha Games president Russ Bullock.

This week the developer announced that Mechwarrior Online’s open beta would be pushed back due to lag issues in the game.

The game’s full release is expected before the end of the year.