EA's Origin app, launched in 2011 as a rival to Steam, is finally being replaced by the EA app. While intended to streamline PC game access and purchases, Origin's cumbersome user experience and frustrating logins led to widespread avoidance. This transition, however, comes with significant drawbacks.
Users who haven't migrated their accounts from Origin to the EA app risk losing access to previously purchased games. Furthermore, the EA app only supports 64-bit operating systems, leaving 32-bit users in the lurch. While Steam also dropped 32-bit support in early 2024, this move highlights concerns about digital ownership and access.
Most modern PCs (those built within the last five years) will not be affected by the 32-bit limitation. A simple RAM check can confirm your system's architecture; 32-bit systems are limited to 4GB of RAM. However, users with 32-bit Windows installations will need to perform a complete system reinstall with a 64-bit version.
This situation underscores the vulnerabilities of digital game ownership. Losing access to a purchased library due to system changes is a frustrating reality, shared by both Origin and Steam users. The increasing prevalence of invasive DRM solutions, such as Denuvo, further complicates matters, often imposing arbitrary limitations despite legitimate purchase.
A potential solution is supporting platforms like GOG, which offers DRM-free games. GOG's model ensures that downloaded titles remain playable on any compatible hardware indefinitely. While this approach presents challenges regarding software piracy, it hasn't hindered the platform's growth, with titles like the upcoming RPG Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 slated for release.
