Origin is a gaming client that must be installed to play many games from EA (Electronic Arts). Similar to Steam, the software allows you not only to purchase games but also to keep them up to date with the latest updates.
How to install Origin on your PC
Origin was permanently discontinued in April 2025 and replaced by the new EA App. You now require the EA App for all future EA games.
- For installation, you need at least Windows 10 (64-bit) or macOS. Older 32-bit operating systems are not supported.
- To download, you must first visit the official EA App download page. Then select the appropriate version (PC/Mac).
- Launch the installer and follow the installation instructions. The installation takes only a few minutes.
- After installation, launch the EA App and log in with your existing EA Origin credentials. If necessary, you can also create a new EA account during this step.
- In your user profile, you can then adjust the settings and check your game library. The user profile is located in the top right corner.
Transferring your Origin game collection and save data
With the help of various prompts, you can easily retain and transfer your Origin game collection and save data.
- Games that were already linked to your account in Origin will automatically appear in the EA App. No need to download them again.
- Cloud save data is also seamlessly transferred, provided automatic synchronization was enabled in Origin.
- As a precaution, local save data should also be backed up manually, usually under “Documents\Electronic Arts$$Game Name]”.
- Migration and installation detection work best if Origin is uninstalled only after the EA app has been successfully installed.
- If you encounter issues with missing games, you should first check whether the correct account is being used. If necessary, EA Support can assist you.
Troubleshooting EA App Installation and Login
Common causes of errors include installation issues due to missing administrator rights, blocking antivirus/firewall programs, or corrupted installation files.
With a few tips and hints, these errors can be easily resolved.
- After downloading, run the installer again and launch it “as administrator”.
- If you encounter issues with existing files, you should also completely delete the old installation folder. The path “C:\Program Files\Electronic Arts\EA Desktop\EA Desktop” will help you with this.
- Temporarily disable antivirus or firewall software to resolve the issues.
- Error messages such as EC:104 usually indicate leftover installation files or internet issues. Therefore, clean up your files and reinstall them.
- If you experience connection issues, EA recommends checking your network connection and disabling proxy/VPN connections if necessary.
- In addition, EA Support provides detailed help pages and personal assistance.
Uninstalling Origin and managing games in the EA App
By following a few steps, you can smoothly switch to the EA App while keeping your game collection intact.
- Origin can be easily uninstalled after successfully transferring your game collection. Your account, including games and add-ons, will remain fully intact, as these are linked to your EA account.
- Going forward, managing, installing, and launching games will be done exclusively through the EA App. It offers a more modern interface, updated functions, and regular new features.
- In the EA App, you can also reconfigure storage locations for game installations, automatic updates, and cloud backup .
