Dante's Inferno demo dated

EA has employed a number of subtle techniques to build hype for Dante's Inferno. At the 2009 Electronic Entertainment Expo, the publisher had faux bible-thumping protestors hold vigil outside the conference. Last month, EA waded into the viral marketing space with a promotional Web site for the ludicrously fake genuflection simulation Mass: We Pray.

The publisher isn't forsaking all orthodox methods of game promotion, however, as EA today announced that a free sample of Dante's Inferno will be available later this month. PlayStation 3 gamers will be able to pick up the Dante's Inferno Gates to Hell demo on December 10, with the Xbox Live edition landing on Christmas Eve. Though the full version of the game will also be released on the PSP, EA said that the demo will only be available on consoles.

The Gates of Hell demo will give gamers the chance to play through the first level of Dante's Inferno. Players assume the role of Dante Alighieri, whom EA has taken artistic license to transform into a crusading knight in search of his kidnapped love, Beatrice. In the full version of the game, players will venture forth into the Nine Circles of Hell, combating any manner of monstrosities and demons, as well as Death incarnate.

Dante's Inferno is due for the Xbox 360, PS3, and PSP on February 9 in North America. For more information, check out GameSpot's previous coverage.