When Facebook opened up its API earlier this year, it led to a flood of new applications for the social networking platform. One company that wants to make more interactive games through social networking is Ncursion, which launches its MyGladiator.com game and Web site at DEMOfall 2007.

The game lets Facebook users create a virtual gladiator character, train him to improve certain attributes (strength and intelligence), and then face off against other opponents. The battle consists of five rounds, and includes some Flash animation to keep you entertained. Winners receive a "pot of gold" that they can use to improve their fighter or advance in level. After advancing past the free levels, users can buy a $20 virtual "sword of honor" that allows them to play at higher levels in their quest to become the "sole emperor."

Social networking also allows Facebook users to view and "gamble" on others' gladiator fights – spectators receive 100 gold to bet on each match, and get to do the "thumbs up / thumbs down" on conquered gladiators at the end of each match (the virtual gladiators never get deleted, though).

The self-funded company says it is looking at possibly adapting its platform to other genres and styles of fighting games, but also plans on creating more Facebook games as well.