Monopoly doesn’t suit a world which is fast moving towards a globalized economy. And it’s certainly not meant for a space as vivacious and bustling as the video game industry. So, after Steam and Games for Windows Marketplace, we now have another place to access titles via the digital route. Well, Electronic Arts has expanded the available digital download options for PC video game enthusiasts as it unleashed a direct-to-consumer platform dubbed Origin.
The beta version of the desktop application has been released, unlocking easy access to numerous games from EA’s expansive library. With over 150 games on its shelf, this latest venture enables players to easily search, buy and download titles. Like other online services, it requires them to set up a personal profile, download the app and browse games before downloading them.
“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,” remarked David DeMartini, Senior Vice President of Global Online at EA.
“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,” DeMartini continued. “From exclusive demos to full-game downloads, Origin is the place consumers will go for the best game experiences.”
Offering demos and full PC games, the application will exclusively deliver Star Wars: The Old Republic, Battlefield 3 and Need for Speed The Run. Other than the aforementioned games, the service will render upcoming titles including The Sims 3, FIFA 12, Mass Effect 3, Madden NFL 12 and SSX.
“We’re committed to offering consumers direct access to great content and community in a way they have never experienced before,” explained EA CEO John Riccitiello. “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.”
It has been revealed that the application facilitates enthusiasts to create and manage personal communities. Players can also stay in touch with friends, import contacts from Facebook and more. Gamers who constantly move from a place to another can keep a tab on their account and download titles via an Origin mobile profile on portable devices.
The Origin beta application is now available for download on the official website of the direct-to-consumer platform.