Today, Electronic Arts announced several things related to their golf portfolio for 2010. The Tiger Woods PGA Tour franchise will continue in a couple of forms.

Tiger Woods PGA TOUR ’11 will launch in June for PS3, Xbox 360, Wii, and iPhone platforms. However, something is available now that will help golf fans fill the void between now and then.

(They might want to know that they spelled "amateur" wrong.)

Tiger Woods PGA TOUR Online has been in closed beta since May 2009, but it’s now entered the free Open Beta stage. It promises to be the fullest golf experience possible without discs, downloads, or any other peripherals. During the free preview, virtual golfers get to experience several features:

· Facebook Connect – Tiger Woods PGA TOUR Online connects to Facebook, allowing players to invite their friends to become fans, thus earning additional in-game experience.  Players are also able to publish their accomplishments to Facebook.

· Golfer Progression – Players will begin their career as a beginner and by earning experience points, will climb the ranks toward becoming a golf legend.

· The Cut Line – As an extra challenge, each day a target score will appear that becomes the goal for each golfer.  If the user meets, or scores under the target, additional in-game experience is rewarded.

· Fans, Favorites & Sponsorships – Each player will be able to acquire fans within Tiger Woods PGA TOUR Online.  The more fans a player has, the more experience points are rewarded.  Sponsor your friends and earn in-game money if they make the Cut Line.

· Realistic Wind – Experience dynamic wind that calculates the direction and speed throughout the round, making the game more realistic and challenging.

· Pro Shop – Purchase upgraded equipment with in-game earnings to help improve your customized golfer and impress friends.

I just about want to be interested in golf. PGA Tour Online will begin a multitiered charging structure sometime early this year, so get in your free play while you can.