Is EA Play on Steam? A Comprehensive Guide for PC Gamers
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Yes, EA Play is indeed available on Steam. This allows PC gamers to access a library of Electronic Arts games through Valve’s popular platform, alongside options via Origin/EA app and other consoles. However, there are some important nuances to understand about how EA Play functions on Steam, the games available, and what you get for your subscription. This article breaks down everything you need to know, along with answers to frequently asked questions to ensure you’re making the most informed decision about your gaming subscriptions.
Understanding EA Play on Steam
EA Play offers a way to access a wide selection of EA titles for a monthly or annual fee. The service provides several key benefits:
- Access to a Library of Games (The Play List): Subscribers can download and play a rotating selection of EA games. This “Play List” includes everything from popular sports titles like FIFA and Madden to action-adventure games like Battlefield and Mass Effect. Note that games can be removed, as has been the case with FIFA 21 and F1 2020.
- Early Access Trials: Play select new EA games for a limited time before their official release. This gives you a chance to try before you buy.
- Member Rewards: Receive in-game bonuses, exclusive content, and discounts on EA digital purchases.
When you subscribe to EA Play on Steam, your membership is tied to that platform. This is crucial because while EA Play is accessible on multiple platforms (Steam, Origin/EA app, Xbox, PlayStation), your subscription benefits and game access are specific to where you initially signed up.
Key Considerations Before Subscribing
- The EA app Factor: Even if you buy EA Play on Steam, you may still need the EA app (formerly Origin) to launch and play some games. Steam will usually indicate this in the system requirements of the game listing, noting that a third-party DRM is required. This means both Steam and the EA app need to be running correctly and you need to log into both with the correct credentials.
- Platform Locking: Understand that your EA Play membership is tied to the platform on which you purchased it. An EA Play subscription on Steam does not grant access to the service on Xbox or PlayStation.
- Game Removal from the Play List: Keep in mind that games can be removed from the EA Play library. While this doesn’t happen often, it’s something to consider if you’re banking on playing a specific game for the long term.
- Unlinking Accounts: Be cautious about unlinking your Steam account from your EA Account. Doing so will result in the permanent loss of access to games and game progress, DLC, and other extras you have acquired through that link.
- EA Play Pro: On Steam, there is only the standard EA Play. You can also get EA Play Pro directly via the EA app.
Alternatives to EA Play
While EA Play offers a solid selection of EA titles, it’s worth comparing it to other subscription services and buying games outright:
- Xbox Game Pass: This service often includes EA Play as part of its benefits (especially with Game Pass Ultimate), providing access to a broader library of games across multiple publishers.
- Purchasing Games During Sales: EA games frequently go on sale on Steam, Origin, and other platforms. If you only want to play a few specific titles, buying them outright during a sale might be more cost-effective.
Is EA Play Worth It on Steam?
Whether EA Play on Steam is worth it depends on your gaming habits:
- For EA Fans: If you primarily enjoy EA games, a subscription can be a great value, giving you access to many of their titles for a reasonable monthly or annual fee.
- For Trying New Games: The early access trials are perfect for gamers who like to sample new releases before committing to a full purchase.
- For Casual Gamers: If you only play occasionally, the monthly subscription might be a better option than the annual one.
- For Those Seeking Diverse Libraries: If you prefer a wider range of games from different publishers, other subscription services like Xbox Game Pass might be a better fit. Many EA titles are available on alternative platforms as well.
- **For those passionate about the intersection of gaming and education, you may want to visit the website of the *Games Learning Society*, at *GamesLearningSociety.org*. They have great information on the social aspects of gaming.
EA’s Return to Steam: A Brief History
EA left Steam in 2011 to focus on its own platform, Origin. However, in October 2019, EA announced its return to Steam, bringing back many of its popular titles and making them available through an EA Access subscription (now EA Play) on Valve’s platform. This marked a significant shift and provided gamers with more choices on where to access EA games.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About EA Play on Steam
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about EA Play on Steam:
1. Do I Have to Rebuy EA Games on Steam?
No, you do not have to rebuy EA games on Steam if you already own them on Origin/EA app. For some games, the Steam purchase will automatically be added to your EA app library. However, this is not always the case; some older titles might not appear in both libraries.
2. What Happens When EA Play Expires on Steam?
When your EA Play subscription expires on Steam, the games you downloaded through the service will remain installed, but you will no longer be able to play them. They will have a “Purchase” button instead of a “Play” button. You must either renew your subscription or buy the games outright to continue playing.
3. How Much Does EA Play Cost on Steam?
EA Play on Steam costs $4.99 per month or $29.99 for a full year.
4. Is the EA app and EA Play the Same Thing?
No, the EA app is the platform (similar to Steam) where you can purchase and launch EA games. EA Play is a subscription service that gives you access to a library of games and other benefits within the EA app and, in some cases, via Steam.
5. What Happens if I Unlink My Steam Account from My EA Account?
If you unlink your Steam account from your EA Account, you will lose access to all games and game progress, DLC, expansions, and other extras associated with that linked account. Your in-game progress will not transfer.
6. Why Do I Need the EA app for Some EA Games on Steam?
Some EA games on Steam require the EA app to launch because they utilize EA’s DRM (Digital Rights Management). This ensures that only legitimate subscribers and purchasers can access the games.
7. How Do I Find EA Play on Steam?
To find EA Play on Steam, simply open Steam and search for “EA Play” in the store. The subscription will appear as a regular product that you can add to your cart and purchase.
8. Do EA Play Games Stay Forever?
No, EA Play games do not stay in your library forever. You only have access to the games in the Play List as long as your subscription is active.
9. Do You Keep Games After Cancelling EA Play?
No, you do not keep the games after canceling EA Play. Once your subscription ends, you will lose access to the Play List games.
10. What EA Account is Linked to My Steam Account?
To find out which EA Account is linked to your Steam account, go to the EA website (ea.com) and click “Sign In.” Then, click the Steam logo and enter your Steam credentials. You will be directed to the EA Account that is connected to your Steam account.
11. If I Have EA Play Through Game Pass, Do I Need It on Steam?
If you already have EA Play through Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, you generally do not need to purchase it separately on Steam, unless you want to keep your game library entirely within Steam or wish to avoid using the EA app. The Game Pass version of EA Play provides similar benefits.
12. Can I Gift EA Play on Steam?
Yes, you can gift EA Play on Steam to a friend or family member, similar to gifting other games or subscriptions.
13. What Happens if I Buy an EA Game on Steam Instead of Through the EA app?
If you buy an EA game on Steam, it will appear in your Steam library. Depending on the game, you may still need the EA app to launch and play it.
14. Why Is Steam Better Than the EA app?
Whether Steam is “better” is subjective and depends on individual preferences. Steam offers a larger library of games from various publishers, a robust community, and frequent sales. The EA app primarily focuses on EA games.
15. Are There Different Tiers of EA Play on Steam?
No, on Steam, there is only one tier of EA Play available: the standard subscription. This is unlike the EA app, where both EA Play and EA Play Pro options exist.
Conclusion
EA Play on Steam provides a convenient way to access a library of EA games on your PC. By understanding the benefits, limitations, and requirements (such as needing the EA app for some titles), you can make an informed decision about whether this subscription service is right for you. Weigh your options, consider your gaming habits, and enjoy diving into the world of EA titles on Steam.