When did Origin Switch to EA?
Origin, the PC gaming platform developed by Electronic Arts (EA), has undergone significant changes over the years. In this article, we’ll delve into the history of Origin and answer the question: When did Origin switch to EA?
Early Years: Maxis and Electronic Arts
Origin was first introduced in 2000 as a game distribution platform developed by Maxis, a renowned game development studio. At that time, Origin was primarily used to distribute Maxis’s own games, such as The Sims. In 2004, Electronic Arts (EA) acquired Maxis, and Origin became a subsidiary of EA.
EA Access and Origin Access
In 2014, EA launched EA Access, a subscription-based service that allowed players to access a library of EA games for a flat monthly fee. Origin Access, a similar service, was launched in 2016, offering a similar subscription model with additional benefits.
The Shift to EA App
In 2020, EA announced its plans to replace Origin with a new PC gaming platform, the EA App. The EA App is designed to provide a more modern and streamlined gaming experience, with features such as cloud saves, game streaming, and social features.
Why the Change?
The decision to replace Origin with the EA App was likely driven by several factors, including:
- Modernization: The EA App is designed to provide a more modern and user-friendly experience, with features that are common in today’s gaming platforms.
- Consistency: The EA App is designed to provide a consistent gaming experience across all EA games, regardless of whether they were developed by EA or acquired through mergers and acquisitions.
- Cost Savings: By replacing Origin with the EA App, EA may be able to reduce costs associated with maintaining and updating the legacy platform.
What Happened to Origin?
Origin is still available, but it is no longer the primary platform for EA games. The EA App is the new default platform for EA games, and Origin is being phased out. However, Origin will continue to be supported and updated for the foreseeable future.
Key Dates:
- 2000: Origin is first introduced as a game distribution platform developed by Maxis.
- 2004: Electronic Arts (EA) acquires Maxis, and Origin becomes a subsidiary of EA.
- 2014: EA launches EA Access, a subscription-based service that allows players to access a library of EA games.
- 2016: Origin Access is launched, offering a similar subscription model with additional benefits.
- 2020: EA announces plans to replace Origin with the EA App.
- 2022: The EA App is released, replacing Origin as the primary platform for EA games.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Origin switched to EA when Electronic Arts acquired Maxis in 2004, and the platform was renamed Origin. Over the years, Origin underwent several changes, including the introduction of EA Access and Origin Access subscription services. In 2020, EA announced its plans to replace Origin with the EA App, a new PC gaming platform designed to provide a more modern and streamlined gaming experience.