Leading Russian software firm 1C has signed a deal to distribute EA titles for PC and consoles in Russia and Commonwealth of Independent States countries.

The companies said that they hope to “consolidate and advance” the largest markets within the CIS after Russia - the Ukraine and Kazakhstan.

The deal also includes the rights for 1C to distribute EA games for PC in “economy jewel packs” in Russia. EA will release Crysis Warhead (pictured), C&C Red Alert 3 and NHL 09 value packs in the country.

"Choice of 1C as our strategic partner is not a random decision. Nowadays 1C is a key player on the distribution market of PC games in jewels,” said Peter Laughton, EA VP and GM of Central and Eastern Europe.

“Due to its professionalism this company gained high business reputation and we are interested in long-term and mutually profitable relations,” he added.

1C’s international sales director Nikolay Baryshnikov said, "The agreement signed is an unprecedented event for Russian market. The world's leading publisher will unite its strength with the largest Russian software company.”