In what looked at the time like an EA cash grab, Crysis 2, Dragon Age 2, and other EA games were withdrawn from Steam. The reason seems to have boiled down to EA’s custom DLC stores baked into each game, which ran afoul of Steam’s terms of use, which only allows DLC to be sold through its service.
Crysis 2 is back in the fold though, bearing the less than humble moniker of Maximum Edition and eschewing a DLC store, as all the DLC available for the game is already included. Hopefully, this turns out to be the middle ground needed to restore EA products to Steam. If not, EA can always stage a reverse “Because We May” movement, seeing how they’re all indie now.
The Conflict Between EA and Steam
The conflict between EA and Steam primarily revolved around the distribution and sale of downloadable content (DLC). Steam, as a digital distribution platform, has strict guidelines that require all DLC for games sold on its platform to also be sold through Steam. This policy ensures that Steam gets a cut of all transactions, maintaining its revenue stream. However, EA’s decision to integrate custom DLC stores within their games bypassed Steam’s system, leading to a breach of Steam’s terms of service. This move was perceived by many as a cash grab by EA, aiming to maximize their profits by avoiding Steam’s cut.
The withdrawal of popular titles like Crysis 2 and Dragon Age 2 from Steam was a significant blow to gamers who preferred the convenience and community features of Steam. It also sparked a debate about the control and distribution of digital content, highlighting the growing tensions between game developers and distribution platforms.
The Return of Crysis 2: Maximum Edition
Crysis 2’s return to Steam as the Maximum Edition marked a significant development in the ongoing saga between EA and Steam. The Maximum Edition includes all previously released DLC, eliminating the need for a separate DLC store. This move can be seen as a compromise, allowing the game to comply with Steam’s policies while still offering players a complete gaming experience.
The re-release of Crysis 2 on Steam was met with mixed reactions. On one hand, it was a welcome return for fans who had missed the game on their preferred platform. On the other hand, some critics viewed it as a reluctant concession by EA, forced by the realities of the digital distribution market.
The broader implications of this development are worth considering. It raises questions about the future of digital content distribution and the balance of power between game developers and distribution platforms. Will other developers follow EA’s lead and attempt to bypass platform policies, or will they seek more collaborative solutions?
Moreover, the situation underscores the importance of clear and fair policies in the digital distribution market. As the industry continues to evolve, it is crucial for platforms like Steam to maintain policies that protect their interests while also fostering a healthy and competitive market for developers and consumers alike.
The withdrawal and subsequent return of EA games like Crysis 2 to Steam highlight the complex dynamics of the digital distribution market. While the conflict between EA and Steam may have appeared as a simple cash grab, it reflects deeper issues about control, revenue sharing, and the future of digital content. As the industry continues to grow, finding a balance that benefits all stakeholders will be essential for its long-term success.
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