EA has today put to rest any doubts regarding the publisher’s working relationship with golfing superstar Tiger Woods, by announcing that we can expect the arrival of Tiger Woods PGA Tour 11 a little later this year, while golfing enthusiasts are now able to participate in the Tiger Woods PGA Tour Online open beta, starting today.

To participate in the Tiger Woods PGA Tour Online open beta, and to play the demo, you can head on over here to give it a spin – the best part is that you play straight through your browser, so you don’t need to install anything. Ain’t the web great?

Through this free offering, you’ll be able to experience:

• 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.

Executive Producer on the project, Mike Taramykin commented on the beta:

“During beta testing we’ve already seen tremendous participation and enthusiasm from golf fans around the world for Tiger Woods PGA TOUR Online. We’re looking forward to offering all players the opportunity to preview the game for free in the coming weeks.

“Also, during open beta gamers can invite others to play via Facebook and we continue to encourage the community to help to drive the game’s evolution and development.”

Tiger Woods PGA TOUR Online will be offered through a multi-tiered subscription in early 2010.

Tiger Woods PGA Tour 11, on the other hand, is set to release on Wii, Xbox 360, PS3 and iPhone in mid-2010.