It seems like EA’s digital games storefront will run a bit differently than what we’re used to with Steam. For instance, although it will still be the only place to buy Star Wars The Old Republic that doesn’t involve some type of box, you won’t need to run the thing in the background to enjoy your Ewok-murdering.
Origin’s Unique Approach
“While Origin will be the exclusive digital retailer for Star Wars: The Old Republic, that does not mean that Origin is required for you to access or play The Old Republic,” according to BioWare community manager Stephen Reid. “Origin is a digital storefront, and the desktop application is there to give you quick access to Origin exclusives and deals. However, you won’t need to launch the Origin application to run The Old Republic, nor will you patch the game via Origin.”
This approach is quite different from what gamers have come to expect from platforms like Steam, where the client is integral to the gaming experience. Steam’s client not only serves as a storefront but also manages game updates, provides a friends list, and offers an in-game overlay for messaging and other features. Origin’s decision to decouple the game from its client could be seen as a double-edged sword. On one hand, it offers more flexibility and less resource usage for players who prefer not to have multiple applications running simultaneously. On the other hand, it lacks the unified convenience that Steam users have grown accustomed to.
Advantages and Disadvantages
One of the main advantages of Origin’s approach is that it allows players to run Star Wars: The Old Republic without the need for additional software running in the background. This can be particularly beneficial for gamers with lower-end systems where every bit of performance counts. Additionally, it means that players won’t be forced to update the Origin client just to play their game, which can sometimes be a cumbersome process.
However, this approach also has its downsides. For instance, the lack of a unified auto-updating system means that players will need to manually check for and install updates for Star Wars: The Old Republic. This could lead to situations where players are unable to access the game because they are unaware of a necessary update. Furthermore, the absence of a friends list and messaging overlay could make it more challenging for players to connect and communicate with friends during gameplay.
Another point of consideration is the potential impact on the game’s community. Steam’s integrated social features, such as community hubs, user reviews, and forums, play a significant role in fostering a sense of community among players. Without these features, Origin may struggle to create the same level of engagement and interaction among its users.
Despite these potential drawbacks, it’s worth noting that BioWare and EA have likely made this decision with careful consideration of their player base. Star Wars: The Old Republic has a dedicated following, and the developers are likely aiming to provide the best possible experience for their players. By offering the game through Origin without requiring the client, they are giving players more control over their gaming environment.
In conclusion, while Origin’s approach to digital game distribution may differ from what we’re used to with Steam, it offers its own set of advantages and challenges. Whether this model will be successful in the long run remains to be seen, but it certainly provides an interesting alternative for gamers. As the digital distribution landscape continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see how different platforms adapt and innovate to meet the needs of their users.
Source SWTOR Forums
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