April 17 Marks the Conclusion of an Era for EA Games

Overview of Origin’s Shutdown

Electronic Arts will officially discontinue support for its Origin platform on April 17, 2025, prompting users to transition to the new EA App.
The closure of Origin arises from Microsoft’s withdrawal of support for 32-bit software, making upgrades to 64-bit Windows 10 or 11 imperative.
Players utilizing 32-bit systems will need to invest in new hardware to access EA titles, as the EA App does not function on outdated machines.

Electronic Arts has announced significant changes concerning its gaming platform. On April 17, 2025, the Origin platform will permanently shut down. While not widely embraced, Origin has retained a user base; its closure poses challenges for gamers still reliant on 32-bit systems, as they will not have access to the EA App.

The Evolution of the Origin Platform

Launched in 2011, Origin served as EA’s primary digital distribution service for PC users. Despite struggling against competitors, it offered exclusive titles, including many of EA’s top games during its initial years, which enabled it to establish a modest following. The platform’s landscape began shifting in 2019 with EA’s decision to release Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order on Steam, signaling a more diversified approach to game distribution.

In 2022, the company introduced the EA App, designed specifically to phase out Origin. However, Origin remained accessible, allowing users on older 32-bit systems to continue playing. The new EA App requires a 64-bit compatible computer, aligning with the industry’s move toward more robust software capabilities.

Transitioning to the EA App

Due to the upcoming discontinuation, EA has emphasized the necessity for gamers to migrate to the EA App. This transition is necessitated by Microsoft’s cessation of support for older 32-bit applications. To maintain accessibility to their games, players must upgrade to either Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit). Users will need to install the EA App and log in with their existing account credentials. Notably, those who have previously enabled cloud saves can expect a seamless transfer of their saved data to the new platform, although some modifications (mods) may not transfer successfully.

Impact on Gamers

While the closure of Origin will minimally affect those on modern hardware, gamers with outdated 32-bit computers face significant hurdles. Without any alternatives available for accessing their previously purchased games on the EA App, many will have no recourse but to buy new systems. However, it is worth noting that EA has been expanding its library on Steam, providing options for gamers who prefer playing on 32-bit systems to continue enjoying select EA titles through that platform.

Further Closures and Service Changes in 2025

The shutdown of Origin is only one part of EA’s broader plan. Earlier this month, the company announced that it will also discontinue servers for at least 13 games, including frequently played titles such as Madden NFL 21, set to be closed on June 30. A major wave of closures is slated for January 29, affecting popular games like The Simpsons: Tapped Out and Blood and Glory Immortals, among others.

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