EA Shuts Down Origin, Impacting Users

In 2011, EA launched the Origin App, aiming to provide a digital storefront for PC gamers to browse and buy EA's games, separate from platforms like Steam. A significant moment for Origin was the exclusive launch of Mass Effect 3 in 2012, which mandated the use of Origin. Despite this, the platform struggled to gain traction due to its cumbersome user experience and frustrating login processes, leading many PC gamers to steer clear of it. EA persisted with Origin, but in a recent move, they've decided to replace it with the equally challenging EA app.

This transition comes with significant caveats. For instance, if you own games like Titanfall on Origin and can't access your account, you're out of luck unless you formally switch from Origin to the EA app. This switch could mean losing access to games you've already paid for if you don't comply.

Additionally, the EA app only supports 64-bit operating systems, leaving behind users on 32-bit systems. While this might not affect many, as Steam also dropped 32-bit support in early 2024, it's worth noting that Microsoft sold 32-bit versions of Windows 10 until 2020. If you're on Windows 11, you're safe, as 64-bit support has been standard since Windows Vista nearly two decades ago.

To check if your system is 32-bit, look at your RAM. A 32-bit OS can only utilize up to 4GB of RAM, so if you have more, you're likely running a 64-bit system. If you've mistakenly installed a 32-bit version of Windows, you'll need to perform a full system wipe and reinstall a 64-bit version.

While dropping support for 32-bit systems in 2024 isn't surprising, it raises questions about digital ownership. Losing access to a library of games due to hardware changes is frustrating, and it's not just EA; Valve has also dropped 32-bit support, leaving some players unable to upgrade to modern systems.

The rise of invasive digital DRM solutions like Denuvo adds another layer of complexity. These solutions often require deep kernel-level access to your PC or impose arbitrary installation limits, despite your purchase.

One way to preserve your digital library is to support GOG, operated by CD Projekt. GOG's DRM-free approach means that once you download a game, you can run it on any supported hardware indefinitely. This model does open up possibilities for software piracy, but it hasn't deterred developers from releasing new titles on the platform, such as the upcoming RPG Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, which is set to launch on GOG soon.