EA Hikes Origin Prices For Indian Gamers, Sparks Outrage

Electronic Arts (EA) has taken a rather drastic decision in the Indian games market that has provoked huge discontent. According to Softpedia the Origin digital distribution service has just hiked prices up for all games available on the Origin India store. EA had been trying to gain a foothold in the Asian market by selling their games at “low” prices (comparatively low to what they charge on their Origin store in other nations). Games were available from 999 Rs, about $16.50/€13, but now EA has changed this and increased prices. Premium titles now cost much more, similar to prices paid in rich countries like the USA and the UK. For example Battlefield 4 will now cost 2499 Rs ($42/€33) and Need for Speed: Rivals will cost 3499 Rs ($58/€45).

According to MCV India the increase is due to non-Indian citizens using VPN services to gain access to Indian prices and thus saving themselves money at the expense of EA’s regional pricing differences. Actual Indian gamers are now very unhappy with the situation and have started a Twitter movement to express their discontent and hope that EA actually notices.

If anything EA’s decision will just lead to more piracy as many Indian gamers simply won’t be able to afford these new prices so will opt for piracy or cheaper alternatives.

Image courtesy of EA