Can Two People Use One EA Account? The Definitive Guide

The short answer is no, not simultaneously. While you can install games linked to your EA account on multiple devices, you can only be logged into the EA app (formerly Origin) on one device at a time. Attempting to log in on a second device will typically kick the first user offline. This restriction is in place to protect EA’s licensing agreements and prevent widespread account sharing. Account sharing is a big deal in the digital world of gaming, and for good reason.

Understanding EA’s Stance on Account Sharing

EA, like most digital distribution platforms, has specific terms of service that govern how their services and games can be used. A key element of these terms is the prohibition of account sharing. This isn’t just a casual suggestion; it’s a rule enforced to maintain the integrity of their platform and protect the revenue streams of game developers. By preventing multiple people from using a single account, EA encourages each user to purchase their own copy of the game, supporting the continued development of new titles.

Why is Account Sharing a Problem?

Account sharing might seem harmless, especially among family members or close friends. However, it poses several problems:

• Loss of Revenue for Developers: If multiple people play a game using a single purchase, the developer loses potential revenue. This can affect their ability to invest in future games or updates.
• Security Risks: Sharing account credentials increases the risk of your account being compromised. If one person’s device is infected with malware, your account could be at risk.
• Violation of Terms of Service: Violating the terms of service can lead to penalties, including account suspension or permanent bans.

The “Offline Mode” Exception

There’s a slight exception to the simultaneous use rule: offline mode. If one user is playing a game offline, another user can log into the same account on a different device, as long as they are playing a different game and also in offline mode. However, this limits access to online features, such as the game’s online gallery and multiplayer modes. It’s also not a reliable long-term solution, as online connectivity is often required for updates and certain game features.

Alternatives to Account Sharing

If you and someone else both want to enjoy EA games, consider these alternatives:

• Purchase Separate Copies: The most straightforward solution is for each person to purchase their own copy of the game on their respective EA accounts. This ensures that everyone has full access to the game and its features.
• EA Play Subscription: EA Play offers a cost-effective way to access a library of EA games. Both you and the other person could subscribe individually to enjoy the benefits. Keep in mind that EA Play benefits are tied to the specific account with the subscription and cannot be shared via Steam Family Sharing. The Games Learning Society is doing a lot of research on how subscriptions are affecting player behavior and game design, and you can learn more at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
• Friend’s Pass (for It Takes Two): Games like It Takes Two offer a “Friend’s Pass,” allowing one player to invite another to play the game with them, even if the second player doesn’t own the full game. This is a great way to experience cooperative games together without needing two purchases.

Linking Accounts on Consoles

While you can’t share an EA account, you can link your EA account to your console accounts (Xbox, PlayStation, or Switch). This allows you to access EA games on your console using your EA account credentials. If you used the same email address for your console account and your EA account, they should automatically connect when you load an EA game on your console.

Family Sharing Options

EA offers some features to manage accounts for children. You can create a child account linked to your own EA account, allowing you to monitor their activity and set parental controls. However, this doesn’t equate to game sharing. Each account, including child accounts, still needs to own the games they want to play.

FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the rules around EA accounts and sharing:

1. Can 2 people play The Sims 4 using the same EA account at the same time? No. Only one person can be logged into an EA account at a time. If one person logs in, the other will be kicked offline. They could only both play at the same time if one is offline.
2. Can I install Origin (EA app) on multiple computers? Yes, you can install the EA app on multiple computers, but you cannot be logged in on two computers simultaneously.
3. Is it against EA’s terms of service to share my account with a family member? Yes, account sharing is against EA’s Terms of Service.
4. What happens if EA detects that I’m sharing my account? Your account may be subject to suspension or even a permanent ban.
5. Can I merge two EA accounts? No, EA does not offer a feature to merge two EA accounts.
6. Will I lose my game progress if I unsubscribe from EA Play? No, your game progress is saved and will be available if you resubscribe.
7. Can I share my EA Play subscription with my family? No, EA Play subscriptions cannot be shared with other accounts. Each person needs their own subscription.
8. How do I create a child account on the EA app? You can create a child account by clicking “Create an account” on the login window and entering the child’s date of birth. You will need to provide your own email address as the parent/guardian.
9. Can I play the same EA game on different consoles using the same account? Yes, you can link your EA account to multiple console accounts (Xbox, PlayStation, Switch) and access your purchased games on those consoles.
10. If I unlink my EA account from my console account, will I lose my progress? No, unlinking your accounts will not delete your progress. However, your progress is tied to your EA Account, so make sure to link it to the correct console account.
11. Does EA ban for account sharing? Yes. EA can ban or suspend your account for account sharing, as it violates their terms of service.
12. Will deleting my EA account unlink it from my other accounts? No, deleting your EA account will not unlink it from your other accounts. It will just mean your accounts are linked to a deleted account.
13. If I have EA Play, can my friend use the Friend’s Pass to play It Takes Two with me? Yes, the Friend’s Pass works with EA Play. Your friend can download the Friend’s Pass and play the game with you, even if they don’t own the full game.
14. Is there an EA family bundle available? EA doesn’t offer an explicit “EA Family Bundle” that enables game sharing. However, various game bundles are sold by EA, but these don’t include family sharing options.
15. If I cancel my EA Play subscription, do I keep the games I downloaded? No, you won’t have access to the games anymore once your subscription ends. You’ll only be able to play them again if you resubscribe. But any games that you purchased with the EA Play discount are yours to keep.

In Conclusion: Play Fair, Play Together (Separately!)

While sharing an EA account might seem like a convenient way to save money, it’s ultimately a violation of EA’s terms of service and can lead to serious consequences. Instead, explore the legitimate alternatives, such as purchasing separate copies of games or subscribing to EA Play. By respecting the rules, you contribute to a fair and sustainable gaming ecosystem that benefits everyone. You can find additional resources and research on the impact of gaming and its community at GamesLearningSociety.org.