EA's Origin app, launched in 2011 as a rival to Steam, is finally being replaced by the EA app. This transition, however, comes with significant drawbacks. The clunky user experience and frustrating login processes that plagued Origin seem to be carrying over. More concerning is the potential loss of access to games purchased through Origin if users don't actively transfer their accounts to the new platform.

This shift also leaves users of 32-bit operating systems in the lurch, as the EA app only supports 64-bit systems. While Steam also dropped 32-bit support earlier this year, the impact on users is considerable. Although unlikely for newer systems, older PCs running 32-bit Windows (versions sold until 2020) will be affected. A simple RAM check (32-bit systems max out at 4GB) can determine if this is a concern. Remediation requires a complete system wipe and 64-bit OS reinstallation.

This situation highlights concerns surrounding digital ownership. Losing access to purchased games due to hardware changes or platform transitions is frustrating. This isn't unique to EA; Valve's abandonment of 32-bit support on Steam presents a similar issue.

The increasing use of invasive digital rights management (DRM) solutions, such as Denuvo, further complicates matters. These solutions often require deep system access or impose arbitrary installation limits, regardless of legitimate purchase.

A potential solution is supporting DRM-free platforms like GOG (CD Projekt). GOG's games are downloadable and playable on any compatible hardware, ensuring long-term ownership. While this opens the door to piracy, it hasn't prevented new releases, with titles like the upcoming Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 slated for release. The choice between convenience and long-term access to digital libraries remains a complex one for gamers.