EA Is Dealing the Final Blow to Origin, and Taking Some Users With It

EA's Origin app, launched in 2011 as a competitor to Steam, is finally being replaced by the EA app. This transition, however, comes with significant drawbacks. The clunky user experience and frustrating logins that plagued Origin persist in its successor. More critically, users risk losing access to their purchased games if they don't actively transfer their accounts from Origin to the new EA app. This is a major concern for players who may have invested significant time and money in their Origin libraries.

Adding to the complications, the EA app only supports 64-bit operating systems, leaving 32-bit users in the lurch. While Steam also dropped 32-bit support earlier this year, the impact on users is undeniable. Although unlikely for recent PC owners, some users, particularly those with older Windows 10 installations, might be affected. A simple RAM check (32-bit systems are limited to 4GB) can help determine if this is a concern. If a 32-bit system is detected, a complete system wipe and 64-bit OS reinstallation will be necessary.

This transition highlights the precarious nature of digital game ownership. Losing access to purchased games due to platform changes or outdated hardware is a frustrating reality for many gamers. This isn't unique to EA; Valve's abandonment of 32-bit support on Steam presents a similar issue.

The increasing prevalence of invasive DRM solutions, such as Denuvo, further complicates matters. These DRM systems often require deep system access and impose arbitrary installation limits, regardless of legitimate purchase.

A potential solution is to support platforms like GOG, which offer DRM-free games. GOG's model ensures that purchased games remain accessible on any compatible hardware, indefinitely. While this approach presents a risk of increased software piracy, it also allows for a more secure and enduring form of digital ownership. The upcoming release of Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 on GOG demonstrates that this model remains viable for new game releases.