Electronic Arts launch digital download service

EA has launched an online game download service called Origin, more indication that game publishers are betting on a future where they can cut out the retailers.

Activision Blizzard also announced plans this week to launch an online service for its “Call of Duty” games; that service is due later this year.

Origin, a revamped, expanded version of the EA Store, has 150 games available to buy and download. Users can also pre-order limited-edition copies of upcoming titles such as FIFA Soccer 12 and Battlefield 3. The PC game downloads generally cost the same as they would in a brick-and-mortar store. Origin isn’t the first game download service.

EA said Origin will be accessible on mobile devices and PCs and will let users create friend lists and import their Facebook contacts.