Launched back in April as a streamlined route into the Chinese market for western developers, OpenFeint claims The9 Game Zone platform is already distributing more than 60 titles.

The venture, which was launched in partnership with The9 and uses the OpenFeint social network, was backed by the $100 million-strong Fund9 and also designed to aid studios looking to port their titles to Android.

Big backers

In all, OpenFeint claims The9 Game Zone's roster of releases is being distributed across 30 different mobile marketplaces, with leading western developers such as Glu Mobile, THQ, HandyGames, HyperBees and all signed up.

"The9 is an outstanding partner for game developers looking to enter the China market," said AMA founder and CEO Christian Guillemot.

"With a presence in 30 app stores and a China-specific social network powered by OpenFeint, The9 Game Zone is a great platform to launch a game in China."

Game launched so far include Pix'n Love Rush and Babel Rising by BulkyPix, Shift!2 by Fishing Cactus, iSlash by Deullo Games, and Mini Motor Racing by Binary Mill.

"With The9 Game Zone, game developers gain access to our strong China distribution network. We have strong marketing relationships with China’s three largest telecommunication service carriers, major handset manufacturers, and major third-party app distribution stores," said Mr. Chris Shen, The9’s Vice President.

"We are excited to work with these leading international game developers to introduce games to China."

Developers interested in converting iOS releases to Android for the Chinese market should contact CelinaJiang [at] corp [dot] the9 [dot] com for more information.