Should I Play Battlefield on Steam or Origin?
The question of which platform to use for gaming is a crucial one. When it comes to Electronic Arts’ (EA) popular first-person shooter (FPS) franchise, Battlefield, players may wonder whether they should buy and play their favorite title on Steam or Origin. In this article, we’ll explore the differences and similarities between these two popular gaming platforms and help you make an informed decision on which one is best for you.
What Are Steam and Origin?
Before we dive into the specifics of Battlefield, let’s quickly address what Steam and Origin are. Steam is a digital distribution platform that allows users to purchase and download games, as well as connect with other gamers and share experiences. Developed by Valve Corporation, Steam is one of the largest digital distribution platforms in the world, with a user base of over 150 million active accounts.
On the other hand, Origin is EA’s own digital distribution platform. It was launched in 2011 as a successor to EA’s previous downloadable content (DLC) service, EA Download Manager. Origin allows users to purchase and download EA titles, as well as purchase DLC and expansion packs. Origin is specifically designed to work with EA’s entire catalog of games, which includes popular franchises like FIFA, Madden, and (of course) Battlefield.
Direct Answer: Which Platform Is Better for Battlefield?
So, should you play Battlefield on Steam or Origin? Unfortunately, if you buy a Battlefield title on Steam, you’ll still need to use Origin to play it. This is because all Battlefield titles are published by EA and require Origin to function properly. In other words, you can’t play a Battlefield game on Steam alone; you’ll need to use the Origin client.
However, if you’re more interested in trading cards, badges, emoticons, and achievements, Battlefield may be better suited for Steam. Many players enjoy the social and competitive aspects of these platform-specific features, which aren’t available on Origin. Additionally, Steam’s customer support and refund policies might be more to your liking.
Differences between Steam and Origin
| Feature | Steam | Origin |
|---|---|---|
| DLC and Expansion Packs | Purchase and download | Purchase and download |
| Trading Cards and Badges | Yes | No |
| Emoticons and Achievements | Yes | No |
| Customer Support | 24/7 live chat | Limited support |
| Refund Policy | More liberal | More restrictive |
As you can see, while both platforms have their similarities, there are some significant differences that might make one more appealing to you than the other.
What about Unlinking Origin from Steam?
If you’re already playing Battlefield on Steam but want to try playing another EA title, you may be wondering what happens if you unlink Origin from Steam. Be aware that doing so will result in you losing access to all game progress, including DLC, expansions, and any game-specific items you’ve obtained. This is a permanent change, so it’s essential to weigh your options carefully before making such a decision.
Summary
In conclusion, the choice between Steam and Origin for Battlefield ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize trading cards, badges, emoticons, and achievements, Steam might be the better choice. However, if you’re more invested in the game’s progression and want a more comprehensive gaming experience, Origin’s more restrictive DLC and refund policies might not be an issue for you.
Keep in mind that all Battlefield titles will still require Origin to play, regardless of which platform you purchase from. Hopefully, this article has provided valuable insights to help you decide which platform is best for you.