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Can You Move Games from Origin to Steam? A Comprehensive Guide

The short answer is: mostly no. You generally cannot directly transfer games purchased on Origin (now the EA app) to your Steam account. Think of them as separate digital storefronts, each with its own library system. Buying a game on one platform typically locks it to that platform. However, there are nuances and exceptions, particularly when it comes to linking accounts and specific titles like Apex Legends. Let’s dive deeper into the complexities of navigating the EA and Steam ecosystems.

Understanding the Digital Ecosystems

Origin, now rebranded as the EA app, functions as Electronic Arts’ dedicated distribution platform. It’s where you purchase and download EA games like The Sims 4, Battlefield, and many others. Steam, on the other hand, is a broader digital distribution platform hosting thousands of games from various publishers.

The core issue boils down to digital rights management (DRM). Each platform employs its own DRM, meaning that the game files are encoded in a way that only their respective launchers can recognize and run. When you buy a game on Origin, the license is tied to your EA account. Similarly, Steam games are tied to your Steam account. This prevents you from simply copying game files from one platform to another and expecting them to work.

Exceptions and Workarounds

While a direct transfer is generally impossible, there are some exceptions:

Account Linking: Some games, such as Apex Legends, allow you to link your EA account to your Steam account. This doesn’t transfer the game itself, but it does allow you to carry over your progress and unlocks from your Origin account to your Steam account after purchasing the game on Steam.
Redeeming Keys: In rare cases, you might have received a Steam key for an EA game purchased elsewhere. This key can then be redeemed on Steam, adding the game to your Steam library. However, this is not the norm.
Adding Non-Steam Games: While you can’t truly “move” a game, you can add non-Steam games to your Steam library as a shortcut. This lets you launch the game through Steam, use Steam’s overlay, and track your playtime. However, it still requires the game to be installed through its original platform (Origin/EA app in this case).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify the intricacies of moving games between Origin and Steam:

1. If I have already bought a game on Origin, can I play it on Steam?

No. Games bought on Origin can only be played on Origin (or now, the EA app). You would need to purchase the game again on Steam to play it through Steam.

2. Can I transfer EA Play from Origin to Steam?

EA Play is available on both Steam and Origin (EA app), but your membership is tied to the platform you joined on. If you subscribed to EA Play on Origin, your benefits (Play List, member discount, etc.) are exclusive to Origin. The same applies if you subscribed through Steam.

3. Can I import games from EA to Steam?

You cannot directly import games from EA (Origin/EA app) to Steam in a way that grants you a Steam license. However, you can add non-Steam games to your Steam library as a shortcut. This allows you to launch the game through Steam and use Steam’s features, but it doesn’t transfer the game’s license to Steam.

4. Can I link my Origin account to Steam?

Yes, you can link your Origin (EA app) account to Steam. Navigate to the EA Help Website, log in, and look for the option to link your Steam account. This is often required for games like Apex Legends to sync progress.

5. How do I transfer Sims 4 from Origin to Steam?

You cannot transfer The Sims 4 from Origin to Steam without repurchasing the base game on Steam. Once you’ve bought it on Steam, you’ll need to uninstall the Origin version and install the Steam version. You will then need to download your expansion packs and game packs through Origin, as they are linked to your EA account.

6. Do I have to buy Sims 4 again on Steam?

Yes, if you want to play The Sims 4 through Steam, you need to buy the base game on Steam. DLC carries over through your EA account.

7. What happens if I unlink my Steam account from Origin?

When you unlink your Steam account from your EA account, your in-game progress will not transfer. You’ll lose access to games and game progress, DLC, expansions, and any extra content tied to the linked account on that platform.

8. Can I transfer Sims 3 from Origin to Steam?

No. You cannot redeem your EA Sims 3 content purchased on Origin on Steam. However, you can redeem your Steam Sims 3 content through Origin by providing the content’s product key if you bought it as a key code.

9. How do I transfer Origin games to Steam Apex Legends?

Download Apex Legends on Steam. When you launch the game for the first time, you’ll be prompted to log in to your Origin (EA app) account. Your progress should then be saved, and you can play with your existing account.

10. Can you transfer Origin games to another account?

You cannot move games or personas to another account yourself. You’ll need to contact EA Help to inquire about the possibility of merging accounts, but it’s not guaranteed.

11. Does Apex have cross progression from Origin to Steam?

Yes, Apex Legends has cross-progression between Origin (EA app) and Steam accounts on PC. Linking your accounts allows you to carry over your progress.

12. Do I have to redownload Apex on Origin if I have it on Steam?

If you play Apex Legends on Steam, it will link directly with your Origin account, and your progress and content will cross over. You don’t need to redownload Apex on Origin, but you do need to download it on Steam.

13. Is it better to buy Sims 3 on Origin or Steam?

Opinions vary. Origin might offer bonus content. Steam has the expansion packs, and you don’t need to have origin running in the background to play.

14. Do I have to link my EA account to Steam?

You only need to link your accounts the first time you play an EA game on Steam that requires an EA account. This allows for progress syncing and other features.

15. Do I need an Origin account for Steam?

For Steam-native games from EA, you may not need Origin (EA app) to launch, but you can only play with friends on the same platform. For games that require the EA app, you’ll need both accounts linked.

Conclusion

While the answer to “Can you move games from Origin to Steam?” is generally no, understanding the intricacies of account linking, game-specific exceptions, and workarounds can help you manage your digital game library effectively. Remember to check the specific game’s requirements and features to determine the best approach. Always refer to the official documentation of Steam and EA app for the most accurate information.

Exploring the complexities of gaming platforms and player engagement can be fascinating. For more insights into gaming and learning, visit the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.