Introduction

In a surprising yet anticipated announcement, EA has confirmed that it will officially retire its controversial Origin game distribution app for Windows after 14 tumultuous years—set for April 17, 2025. Users still clinging to the outdated platform will soon be prompted to switch to the newer EA app, which launched in 2022 and promised a more streamlined gaming experience.

The Rise and Controversy of Origin

Origin, which debuted in 2011, stirred up significant debate among gamers as EA, not particularly known for its stellar reputation, began pulling popular titles like *Crysis 2* off Steam, insisting players transition to its standalone launcher. This bold move was seen by many as a means for EA to reclaim revenue lost to Valve, who had been taking a slice of sales profits on their hugely successful platform.

Backlash from the Gaming Community

However, the strategy faced significant backlash. Many gamers preferred the familiarity and community features of Steam, while growing distrust towards EA lingered due to past controversies. Origin inherently lacked many of Steam's beloved features, causing gamers to feel uneasy about the shift. To complicate matters further, the choice of the name 'Origin,' reminiscing an era tied to classic RPGs and titles from the '80s and '90s, struck a chord with many as an unwanted reminder of nostalgia wrapped in disappointment.

EA's Response and Transition to the EA App

In an attempt to mend fences, EA began reintroducing its titles on Steam in 2019, and later announced its intention to retire the Origin brand, paving the way for the identity of the EA app. Though there were efforts to migrate Origin users to the new platform and a gradual cessation of new game releases on Origin, the app remained operational for legacy titles until the recent announcement.

Closing the Chapter on Origin

The decision to close Origin comes in light of Microsoft’s recent plans to terminate support for the 32-bit version of Windows 10 this October. With the absence of a 32-bit version of Windows 11, the future for 32-bit applications looked grim. Since Origin operates as a 32-bit application, the shift was inevitable, prompting EA to hasten the retirement process.

Conclusion: A Complicated Legacy

As gamers prepare to say goodbye to Origin, many are left reflecting on a complicated relationship marked by skepticism and persistence. Meanwhile, the industry moves forward, and the fate of EA's next generation of gaming services hangs in the balance. Will the EA app flourish where Origin faltered, or will it be another chapter in the ongoing saga of user loyalty versus corporate strategy? Only time will tell.