Origin described as a 'direct-to-consumer gaming platform'; Mobile version also on the way
Origin described as a "direct-to-consumer gaming platform"; Mobile version also on the way
Publisher EA has today launched a direct rival to leading PC digital distribution portal Steam.
Called Origin and described as "direct-to-consumer gaming platform", the etailer launches with over 150 titles to choose from. It will also be the only outlet from which certain limited editions of EA titles such as Battlefield 3, Star Wars: the Old Republic and FIFA 12 can be purchased.
Customers can also download the Origin beta application – a Steam-rivalling desktop client that as well as offering easy access to content will also offer friends networking.
A mobile version of the client will also be available and will support current EA Mobile hits such as Scrabble.
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"We're committed to offering consumers direct access to great content and community in a way they have never experienced before," EA CEO John Riccitiello stated.
"Today we're launching Origin.com and the Origin beta application. Over time, Origin will grow with new functionality and unique new content that consumers can't get anywhere else."
EA's senior vice president of Global Online David DeMartini added: "Origin is a game service with two fundamental features. It's a download service for the very best content from EA and its partners. It also offers a social function which, over time, will connect a player's profile with friends lists and a cross-platform feed that shows what your friends are playing and where.
"This is our first step in the evolution of Origin, and in the weeks and months ahead we will look to enhance the features and services as well as an expanded range of content. From exclusive demos to full-game downloads, Origin is the place consumers will go for the best game experiences."
Off. They blow "off" steam. Not "of".
This could go horribly wrong for EA, people are gonna keep using steam because you will be able to get more games and only use origin for EA titles which most people will find a pain in the arse if all their friends are on steam so won't bother. Either way its good for consumers, because both will be competing with each other so things will get cheaper
This simply isn't going to work and is not good for the consumer at all. EA will get their service up and running and slowly but surely gain a community, then they will pull on EA games content from other providers to their own service.
Not only that but I can't see Activision or other major publishers using Origin unless they are missing out on something to outweigh throwing money at their competitors.
All its going to do is fracture the market and instead of PC gamers having one place to enjoy something, they will have to start dancing around different applications for different exclusives as everyone wants a slice of the pie.
When in fact all they do is ruin the PC market after its finally managed to get back on its feet again.
