Can You Get EA Play on Steam if You Have It on Origin? The Ultimate Guide
The short answer is no. Your EA Play membership is tied to the platform you originally purchased it on. If you subscribed through Origin (now transitioning to the EA app), your benefits, including access to the Play List and member discounts, are only valid within the EA app ecosystem. To enjoy EA Play benefits on Steam, you will need a separate, active EA Play subscription purchased directly through Steam. Think of it as different stores – your loyalty card to one doesn’t work at the other! This article dives deep into the nuances of EA Play, Origin, Steam, and their relationship, answering all your burning questions.
The EA Play Ecosystem: A Platform-Specific Subscription
Understanding EA Play
EA Play is a subscription service that offers several benefits to its members, including:
- Access to a library of games known as the Play List.
- Exclusive in-game content and rewards.
- Early trials of select new releases.
- A 10% discount on EA digital purchases, including games, DLC, and in-game content.
Origin vs. EA App: The Evolution of EA’s PC Platform
Originally, Origin was EA’s dedicated PC gaming platform, similar to Steam. However, EA has transitioned from Origin to the EA app as its primary PC platform. This new app offers a more streamlined experience and is intended to eventually replace Origin entirely.
EA Play on Multiple Platforms
EA Play is available on PC (via the EA app or Steam), Xbox, and PlayStation. However, your membership is platform-specific. This means that an EA Play subscription purchased on one platform does not automatically grant you access to the service on another.
EA Play and Steam: A Separate Agreement
The Need for a Separate Steam Subscription
If you want to access the benefits of EA Play on Steam, you must purchase a separate EA Play subscription through Steam. This subscription is independent of any EA Play membership you may have through the EA app or on consoles.
Linking Your EA Account to Steam
While you need a separate subscription, you can link your EA account to your Steam account. This allows you to:
- Launch and play your EA games directly from Steam.
- Take advantage of Steam features such as friend lists and chat.
- Enjoy a more integrated gaming experience.
Why This Matters
This platform separation is crucial to understand because it impacts how you access and manage your EA Play benefits. If you primarily play on Steam but have an older EA Play subscription through Origin, you’re missing out on the benefits within the Steam ecosystem.
FAQs: All You Need to Know About EA Play, Origin, and Steam
1. Is EA Origin the same as EA Play?
No. Origin was EA’s PC gaming platform (now being replaced by the EA app), while EA Play is a subscription service. Origin was where you bought and launched games; EA Play enhances that experience with a game library, discounts, and more. Origin Access and Origin Access Premier were the previous names for EA Play and EA Play Pro, respectively.
2. Do I have to switch from Origin to the EA app?
Yes, eventually. EA is phasing out Origin in favor of the EA app. While you may still be able to use Origin for a while, EA is encouraging users to switch to the EA app for the latest features and support. Any games you’ve downloaded through Origin will be ready to launch through the EA app.
3. Do I need to uninstall Origin for the EA app?
The EA app is designed to uninstall Origin automatically during the installation process. If you wish to have both for testing, install the EA app first and then Origin. It’s generally recommended to use the EA app as your primary client.
4. Does the EA app delete Origin games?
The Origin client itself is intended to be uninstalled when moving to the EA app. The game files should not be deleted. Confirm that the game files are still intact, and if they’re missing, check the recycle bin. If you find the game files on the recycle bin, restore them.
5. How do I sync EA Play with Steam?
Install the EA app if you haven’t already. The EA app will launch and ask you to link your Steam account and your EA Account. Log in to the EA app using your EA Account info or create a new EA Account. After linking accounts, Steam will install your game and let you know when it’s ready to play.
6. Why is EA closing Origin?
EA acknowledged the “limitations of this platform in a quickly evolving entertainment landscape.” Rather than fixing Origin, EA decided to replace it with the EA app, offering a more modern and streamlined experience.
7. Is Origin linked to EA?
Yes. Purchases are tied to your EA account, which is what you use to log in to the Origin client or the EA app.
8. Do I need Origin if I have the EA app?
No, you don’t need both clients installed. However, EA Desktop is not still in beta, so there may be certain games or features that don’t appear in that client that will show in Origin instead. It’s recommended to use the EA app.
9. Will my Sims transfer from Origin to the EA app?
Your Sims 4 game and associated data should transfer seamlessly from Origin to the EA app. The EA app is replacing Origin, not any of your games or saves.
10. Can I use my Origin account on the EA app?
Yes, you’ll log in to the EA app using the same email and password you used for your Origin account.
11. Can I transfer my Sims packs from EA to Steam?
No, you can’t transfer packs from Origin (or the EA app) to Steam or vice versa. If you own the base game on both platforms, you can install the base game through Steam and then add packs from both your Origin/EA app and Steam libraries.
12. Can I use my EA Play account on multiple platforms?
No, EA Play memberships don’t cross platforms. You’ll need a separate membership for each platform (PC via EA app, PC via Steam, Xbox, PlayStation).
13. What happens when you link an EA account to Steam?
By linking your EA account to Steam, you’ll be able to launch and play your EA games directly from Steam, as well as take advantage of other Steam features like friend lists and chat.
14. Can I play Apex on Steam with my Origin account?
When you launch the game for the first time on Steam, you’ll be asked to log in to your Origin (EA) account. Your progress should be saved, and you should be able to play Apex Legends as you used to.
15. What is replacing EA Origin?
The EA app is replacing EA’s Origin. It’s a “new, enhanced PC platform” designed to offer a better user experience.
Conclusion
While it might seem inconvenient, the platform-specific nature of EA Play memberships is something to be aware of. If you enjoy gaming on both the EA app and Steam, consider the value proposition of having separate subscriptions. By understanding the nuances of EA Play, Origin, and Steam, you can make informed decisions about how to best enjoy your EA gaming experience.
Remember that the world of gaming is constantly evolving, and understanding these nuances is essential for making the most of your entertainment. Consider exploring resources like the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org for more insights into the intersection of gaming, technology, and education.