Electronic Arts Rolls Out Game Download Service

Electronic Arts (EA), maker of video games, has launched Origin, a new download site where gamers can purchase games directly from the company, without dealing with a retailer.

“With Origin you will get access to the best content EA has to offer, across multiple platforms, anytime you want,” the company said in announcing the launch. “Origin will also help you stay connected with your friends in our growing online community.  And later this year, Origin will be the destination where you can purchase and download highly-anticipated EA games, including Battlefield 3 and FIFA 12.”

Origin takes the place of EA Store, and will have more than 150 titles to choose from at the start. Gamers will be able to browse, buy, download and play games. They will be able to use a PC or mobile device, the company said.

EA also has also launched its Origin beta application. It's a desktop application that serves as a direct connection to games and a customized game community.

Through the Origin application, users will be able to find and connect with friends, see what they are playing, and digitally download and play PC games straight from EA.

“With Origin, you’ll no longer have to constantly swap out discs or shuffle through stacks of games – everything will be available right in your account,” EA said on its website. “Even if you buy a new computer or are away from your home, you’ll always be able to play your favorite EA games with Origin.”

Origin will also be available on the go with a mobile platform that gives users access to their profile and lets them connect and play with friends in EA’s smartphone titles, including SCRABBLE and the upcoming mobile version of Battlefield 3.

In the future, the company says mobile gamers will also be able to see which games their friends are playing, as well as compare high scores and compete for bragging rights.