Can I Move My Games From Origin to Steam? The Definitive Answer
In the vast digital landscape of PC gaming, navigating the various platforms and their respective ecosystems can feel like traversing a complex labyrinth. One question that frequently arises, especially for gamers who have been around for a while, is whether it’s possible to transfer games purchased on Origin (now known as the EA App) to Steam. The short, unambiguous answer is: No, you cannot directly transfer games purchased on Origin to Steam.
This limitation stems from the fact that Origin and Steam are distinct platforms with their own DRM (Digital Rights Management) systems and licensing agreements. Each platform operates as a separate store, with its own set of rules and restrictions. While there are some exceptions and workarounds, the general rule is that a game purchased on one platform remains tied to that platform’s account. This can be frustrating for gamers who wish to consolidate their game libraries onto a single platform for convenience.
But don’t despair! While a direct transfer isn’t possible, there are nuances to this situation. Let’s dive into the details and explore the various facets of this complex issue.
Understanding the Platform Ecosystems
To fully understand why transferring games between Origin and Steam is not possible, it’s important to appreciate the fundamental differences between these platforms.
- Digital Rights Management (DRM): Both Origin and Steam employ DRM technologies to protect the intellectual property of game developers. These technologies ensure that only authorized users can access and play the games they have purchased. Because the DRM systems are different on each platform, a game purchased on Origin is coded to work with Origin’s DRM, and the same goes for Steam.
- Licensing Agreements: When you purchase a game on either platform, you’re essentially purchasing a license to play that game, not the game itself. These licenses are tied to your account on the respective platform. These licenses don’t allow for cross-platform use.
- Storefront Policies: Origin and Steam are direct competitors, each with its own store policies, pricing structures, and promotional strategies. Allowing the transfer of games between platforms would undermine the fundamental business model of each store.
Linking Accounts: A Limited Solution
While you can’t transfer games outright, you can link your Origin account to your Steam account. This allows for certain functionalities, primarily related to EA games that are available on both platforms. Linking your accounts can enable features such as:
- Cross-platform play: For some games that support it, linking accounts may allow you to play with friends who own the game on the other platform.
- Progression Sharing (Limited): In some cases, linking accounts might allow for the sharing of in-game progress or unlocks, although this is not a universal feature and depends entirely on the game in question.
- Streamlined Login: Linking can simplify the login process for EA games on Steam, as it authenticates your identity through your Origin account.
To link your accounts:
- Navigate to the EA Help Website.
- Click Log in at the top right of the page.
- When the login prompt appears, click the Steam icon at the bottom.
- Log in with your Steam credentials.
Keep in mind that unlinking your accounts can lead to loss of progress, DLC, and other content tied to the specific game.
What About EA Play?
EA Play, EA’s subscription service, is available on both Origin (EA App) and Steam. However, your subscription is tied to the platform you joined on. If you subscribed to EA Play on Steam, your benefits, game access, and member discounts are only available on Steam, and vice-versa. You cannot transfer your EA Play subscription from Origin to Steam, or vice versa, without purchasing a new subscription.
The Case of The Sims 4
The Sims 4 presents a particularly frustrating scenario for many players. While the base game is now permanently free to download on both platforms, the numerous expansion packs and DLCs can represent a significant investment. If you own The Sims 4 on Origin and want to play it on Steam, you will need to purchase the base game again on Steam. Your expansion packs and DLCs, however, are tied to your Origin account and can be accessed through the Origin client, even if you’re playing the Steam version of the base game.
This means you’ll need the Steam version of the base game installed, and the Origin client running in the background, for the DLC to work. It also means, if you already have it installed, you’ll need to redownload your DLC.
Workarounds and Alternatives
While a direct transfer is impossible, here are a few potential (albeit imperfect) workarounds:
- Wait for Sales: Keep an eye on Steam’s sales and promotions. You might be able to purchase the games you want at a discounted price.
- Consider EA Play: If you’re interested in playing a wide range of EA games, an EA Play subscription on Steam could be a cost-effective alternative to repurchasing individual titles.
- Focus on New Purchases: For future game purchases, decide which platform you prefer and stick to it. This will help you consolidate your library and avoid this issue in the future.
- Use Third-Party Key Resellers Responsibly: While not an “official” method, some third-party key resellers may offer Steam keys for games you already own on Origin. This is risky, as key legitimacy can vary, and it’s not endorsed by either platform.
The Future of Cross-Platform Gaming
The desire for cross-platform game ownership is a growing trend within the gaming community. While it’s not currently possible to transfer games between Origin and Steam, the industry is evolving, and future developments may bring about more flexible solutions. Cloud gaming services and universal game libraries could potentially bridge the gap between different platforms, offering gamers greater freedom and control over their game collections.
The Games Learning Society is dedicated to understanding these evolutions and their impact on gamers and the gaming industry as a whole. Find out more at GamesLearningSociety.org.
FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered
Here are some frequently asked questions about moving games from Origin to Steam:
1. If I have already bought a game on Origin, can I play it on Steam?
No. Games purchased on Origin can only be played through the Origin client (or the EA App, as it’s now known). Steam games require Steam to be installed and running to be played.
2. Can I transfer my Origin games to Steam?
Unfortunately, no. There is currently no official method to directly transfer games from your Origin library to your Steam library.
3. Can I transfer EA Play from Origin to Steam?
No. Your EA Play subscription is tied to the platform you originally subscribed on. A subscription made on Origin remains there, and a subscription on Steam remains tied to that platform.
4. Can I link my Origin account to Steam?
Yes, you can link your Origin account to Steam. This can enable certain cross-platform functionalities for some games.
5. How do I transfer The Sims 4 from Origin to Steam?
You can’t directly transfer The Sims 4. You’ll need to purchase the base game on Steam if you want to play it through Steam. Your Origin DLC will still be available if you have the Steam version installed.
6. Do I have to buy The Sims 4 again on Steam?
If you want to play The Sims 4 via Steam, you must purchase the base game on Steam, even if you already own it on Origin.
7. What happens if I unlink my Steam account from Origin?
Unlinking your accounts will result in a permanent loss of access to games and progress that rely on the connection between the two accounts.
8. Do I need to link Origin to Steam to play EA games on Steam?
Yes, some EA games on Steam still require an EA (Origin) account to play. Linking your accounts streamlines this process.
9. Can I transfer The Sims 3 from Origin to Steam?
You cannot redeem your Origin Sims 3 content on Steam. Conversely, you can redeem your Steam Sims 3 content through Origin by providing the product key.
10. Is Origin or Steam better?
It depends on your preferences. Steam has a larger library and a more established community, while Origin primarily focuses on EA games.
11. Is it better to buy The Sims 3 on Origin or Steam?
The general consensus is that there is no one “better” option. It depends entirely on where you want to consolidate your gaming library.
12. What happens if I delete my Origin account?
You will lose all progress in your games, any in-game items you’ve purchased, and access to subscription services associated with the account.
13. Do you lose all your games if you delete your Steam account?
Yes, deleting your Steam account means you lose all your games, community profile, and any associated information.
14. Will I lose my Origin games when Origin is fully replaced by the EA App?
No. EA has stated that all Origin content will carry over to the new EA App once it is fully released.
15. Will I lose my games if I uninstall Origin?
Uninstalling the Origin client will prevent you from playing any games downloaded through it until you reinstall it. You will not lose your game licenses, and no saves are removed.
Navigating the world of PC gaming platforms can be tricky, but hopefully this comprehensive guide has clarified the complexities of transferring games between Origin and Steam. While a direct transfer isn’t possible, understanding the limitations and potential workarounds can help you make informed decisions about where to purchase and play your favorite games.