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Open Beta Test for EA SPORTS FIFA ONLINE 2 to Begin on 22 April 2009 in China

2009-03-25 16:58 1768

SHANGHAI, March 25 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- The9 Limited

(Nasdaq: NCTY) ("The9"), a leading online game operator in China, and Electronic Arts Inc. (Nasdaq: ERTS) ("EA"), a leading global interactive entertainment software company, today announced in a press conference held at Shanghai Pu Dong Expo Center that the highly anticipated game EA SPORTS(TM) FIFA ONLINE 2 will begin its open beta test in mainland China on 22 April, 2009.

FIFA ONLINE 2 is the latest online version of EA SPORTS' officially licensed FIFA football video games. Building upon over a decade of success from the EA SPORTS FIFA video game franchise, EA SPORTS FIFA ONLINE 2 features 30 licensed leagues, over 10,000 real players, 31 stadiums, and authentic team kits. The game has enhanced player controls so that gamers can direct each of their in-game team's players to perform real football moves. EA SPORTS FIFA ONLINE 2 also highly focuses on player interactivity. Gamers can set up matches, track each others' scores, chat in the game and enjoy other community functions. EA SPORTS FIFA ONLINE 2 brings the ultimate online football gaming experience that mirrors the sophistication, finesse and beauty of the

real-world sport.

Ms. Xiaowei Chen, President of The9 said, "EA SPORTS FIFA ONLINE 2 epitomizes a global sports game. During the closed beta test in China, it received not only extremely positive feedback from game players but has also generated awareness and anticipation among football fans. The9 has been working actively with EA to add features that are tailor made for local players and to prepare for all aspects of the game's operation in the Chinese market. From April 22nd gamers and football fans will enjoy the fun and excitement in this brand new online sports game."

"Bringing EA SPORTS FIFA ONLINE 2 to China is an important step for EA. The game is successful in several Asian markets, and the efforts and full support of our partners The9 and FIFA have made it possible to extend the franchise to this market. We're looking forward to giving Chinese football fans and gamers a chance to play what is the most authentic football gaming experience." says Mr. Jon Niermann, President of EA Asia Pacific.

At the press conference, top Chinese football players and popular artists played EA SPORTS FIFA ONLINE 2 and were all amazed and impressed by the stunning gaming experience. About one thousand fans witnessed the announcement of open beta, and joined in the celebration of "The Night of EA SPORTS FIFA ONLINE."

The client will be available from April 10, 2009; account registration and activation starts at the same time.

For more information, please visit http://www.eaFIFAonline2.com .

About The9 Limited

The9 Limited is a leading online game operator and developer in China. The9's business is primarily focused on operating and developing high-quality games for the Chinese online game market. The9 directly or through affiliates operates licensed MMORPGs, consisting of MU(R), Blizzard Entertainment(R)'s World of Warcraft(R), Soul of The Ultimate Nation(TM), Granado Espada, and its first proprietary MMORPG, Joyful Journey West(TM), in mainland China. It has also obtained exclusive licenses to operate additional MMORPGs and advanced casual games in mainland China, including EA SPORTS(TM) FIFA Online 2, Audition 2, Atlantica, Hellgate: London, Ragnarok Online 2, Emil Chronicle Online, Huxley(TM) and Field of Honor. In addition, The9 is also developing various proprietary games, including Warriors of Fate Online(TM) and others.

About Electronic Arts

Electronic Arts Inc. (EA), headquartered in Redwood City, California, is the world's leading interactive entertainment software company. Founded in 1982, the Company develops, publishes, and distributes interactive software worldwide for video game systems, personal computers, cellular handsets and the Internet. Electronic Arts markets its products under four brand names: EA SPORTS(TM), EA(TM), EA SPORTS Freestyle(TM) and POGO(TM). In fiscal 2008, EA posted GAAP net revenue of $3.67 billion and had 27 titles that sold more than one million copies. EA's homepage and online game site is http://www.ea.com . More information about EA's products and full text of press releases can be found on the Internet at http://info.ea.com .

EA, EA SPORTS, EA SPORTS Freestyle and Pogo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Electronic Arts Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. Official FIFA licensed product. (C) The FIFA Brand is a copyright and trademark of FIFA. Manufactured under license by Electronic Arts Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

For further information, please contact:

The9 Limited

Phyllis Sai

Manager, Investor Relations

Tel: +86-21-5172-9751

Fax: +86-21-5172-9903

Email: phyllissai@corp.the9.com

Web: http://www.corp.the9.com/

EA China

Claire Zhou

PR Manager

Tel: +86-21-6132-1516

Email: czhou@ea.com

EA Asia

Dulcie Ho

Public Relations

Tel: +65-6415-3088

Fax: +65-6333-0596

Email: dho@ea.com

EA Corporate Communication

Tiffany Steckler

Tel: +41-22-316-1322

Email: tsteckler@europe.ea.com

Source: The9 Limited
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