Does EA Play Work on Steam if I Bought on Origin? The Ultimate Guide
Here’s the deal: owning games on Origin (now replaced by the EA app) doesn’t automatically grant you EA Play access on Steam. Think of it this way: EA Play is a subscription service tied to a specific platform. Your Origin purchases remain valid, but to enjoy EA Play benefits on Steam, you’ll need a separate EA Play subscription through Steam.
In essence, your pre-existing EA game library from Origin is independent of an EA Play subscription on Steam. You can still access and play those games through the EA app using your EA account. However, the member benefits, discounts, and the Play List associated with EA Play are platform-specific. If you want those perks on Steam, a Steam-linked subscription is essential. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the intricacies of EA Play, Origin, and Steam integration.
Understanding the Ecosystem: Origin, EA App, and EA Play
To clarify, let’s break down these components:
- Origin: This was EA’s digital distribution platform, akin to Steam. It’s been officially retired and replaced by the EA app.
- EA App: The new desktop application serving as EA’s primary game launcher and storefront on PC. It’s designed to streamline access to your EA games and services.
- EA Play: A subscription service offering access to a library of EA games (the Play List), exclusive in-game content, early trials of new releases, and a 10% discount on EA digital purchases.
- EA Play Pro: The premium tier of EA Play, providing access to deluxe editions of new releases and the full library of EA games.
- Steam: Valve’s ubiquitous digital distribution platform for PC games.
Why a Separate EA Play Subscription?
The key is understanding that EA Play memberships are tied to the platform on which they are purchased. An EA Play subscription obtained through Origin/EA app will not automatically transfer or activate on Steam. It’s a matter of licensing and platform integration. Each platform (Origin/EA app, Steam, Xbox, PlayStation) maintains its own ecosystem for subscriptions and game access.
How to Access Your Origin Games After the Transition
The good news is that your previously purchased Origin games are still accessible. Here’s how:
- Install the EA App: Download and install the new EA app on your PC.
- Log in with Your EA Account: Use the same email address and password you used for Origin. Your game library should automatically populate.
- Launch Your Games: Once logged in, you can launch and play your purchased games directly from the EA app.
Integrating Steam and EA App
To launch EA games from Steam, a link between your Steam account and your EA account is necessary. Here’s the process:
- Install the EA App: If you haven’t already, install the EA app.
- Launch a Game from Steam: When you attempt to launch an EA game purchased on Steam, the EA app should automatically launch (if not already running).
- Link Your Accounts: The EA app will prompt you to link your Steam account to your EA account. Follow the on-screen instructions.
- Enjoy Your Game: After linking, the game will launch through the EA app, even though you initiated it from Steam.
Dealing with The Sims 4
The Sims 4 has unique considerations:
- Base Game Requirement: If you want to play The Sims 4 through Steam, you need to purchase the base game on Steam. Your Origin/EA app version won’t directly transfer.
- DLC Compatibility: Once you have the Steam version, you might need to uninstall the Origin/EA app version. DLC purchased on Origin is usually tied to the Origin/EA app version of the game.
- Account Linking: Ensure your Steam account is linked to your EA account for authentication purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use my Origin account for the EA app?
Yes! Your EA Account is the same account you used for Origin. Simply use your existing credentials to log into the EA app.
2. Do I need both Origin and the EA app?
No. Origin is no longer needed. The EA app replaces Origin as the primary launcher for EA games on PC.
3. Will my games from Origin transfer to the EA app?
Yes, as long as you log in to the EA app using the same EA account you used for Origin. Your registered games will appear in your library.
4. Is EA Play the same as Origin Access?
Yes, EA Play is the new name for both EA Access and Origin Access. Origin Access Premier is now EA Play Pro.
5. How do I sync EA Play with Steam?
You can’t sync an EA Play subscription from Origin to Steam. You need to purchase an EA Play subscription directly through Steam to access its benefits there.
6. Why is EA closing Origin?
EA recognized the limitations of Origin in the evolving gaming landscape and opted to replace it with the EA app.
7. Do I have to replace Origin with the EA app?
Yes. The EA app is required to play EA games on PC, even if you launch them from Steam or Epic Games Store.
8. How do I transfer The Sims 4 from Origin to Steam?
You must buy a copy of The Sims 4 on Steam. Then, uninstall the Origin/EA app version, install the Steam version, and redownload your expansion packs through the platform where you originally purchased them.
9. Will my Sims 4 game progress transfer from Origin to the EA app?
Yes. Your save files and game progress are typically stored in your user folder and are not affected by the transition from Origin to the EA app.
10. Do I need Origin if I have the EA app?
No, you don’t need Origin anymore. The EA app is the replacement.
11. Do I need Origin to play EA games on Steam?
You may need the EA app (formerly Origin) to launch some EA games from Steam. Steam will usually indicate if a third-party DRM (like the EA app) is required.
12. Why are my Origin games not showing up in the EA app?
Ensure you are logged in to the EA app with the correct EA account. Double-check the email address you used to purchase the games on Origin.
13. Is my EA account the same as my Origin account?
Yes, your EA account is the same as your Origin account. EA simply rebranded the account name.
14. Why is EA discontinuing Origin?
EA is discontinuing Origin to provide a more streamlined and modern gaming experience with the EA app, supporting the new EA Play subscription services.
15. Is it better to buy EA games on Origin (EA app) or Steam?
This depends on your preference. Steam often provides better services and a larger library. However, EA Play integration is more seamless on the EA app, and you might find exclusive deals there. Ultimately, the best place to buy is where you find the best price or convenience. Keep an eye on sales and promotions on both platforms.
Continuing Your Gaming Journey
The transition from Origin to the EA app might seem confusing at first, but by understanding the nuances of platform integration and subscription services, you can navigate the ecosystem with ease. Remember to link your accounts, download the EA app, and check for any platform-specific requirements for your favorite games.
For further insights into the impact of games on learning and society, explore the resources offered by the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. Enjoy your gaming!