Origin is the new name for the EA Download Manager, a simple application for downloading and playing games from Electronic Arts.

If you prefer to buy digital copies of games instead of going out to the shops, for Electronic Arts games you need to download this application.
As well as managing your premium downloads, Origin also initiates decryption of the games, runs the installer and launches it. If a game requires a DRM (digital Rights Management) license, this will be acquired by Origin too.

As well as downloading games, this app also keeps you up to date with patches and updates for your games, so you'll always be up to date. It is worth noting you cannot run downloaded games without Origin, as the DRM system requires it to be running. 2011's Battlefield 3 will be released exclusively through Origin on PC.

Origin is a perfectly capable download manager, although it is obviously limited to EA games. Time will tell if it competes with Steam or not.

Download Origin 9.1.13.89 in Softonic

This version of the game brings several improvements to EA SPORTS Cricket 2005, while still being compatible with Windows XP and Vista, not to mention Windows 7. Among those improvements are full control over foot choice, shot, direction, power and timing, meaning that your cricket is even more realistic than before. If you're confused as the keyboard controls for EA Sports Cricket, check out our guide about how to play EA Sports Cricket.

In addition to the extra control, players get to enjoy new camera angles, and realistic, brand-name equipment. When you add this to the improved game-play and professional-sounding commentary from Mark Nicholas and Richie Benaud, it’s clear that EA SPORTS Cricket 07 is a solid addition to the family.

Looking at the game in 2011, EA SPORTS Cricket 07 looks dated. Even so, it’s the latest offering in the EA SPORTS Cricket series, and a solid game nonetheless.

Download EA SPORTS Cricket Preview 2007 in Softonic

While the actual game can be quite complex, Brian Lara International Cricket 2007 is very accessible, with well thought out controls that make playing the game simple from the start. Reminiscent of golf game controls, here the game revolves around stopping a rising bar as near to the sweet stop as possible, to get the best possible catch, throw, or hit.

In terms of graphics, the presentation effectually copies how the game is viewed on TV, with all the camera angles you'd expect, replays and the 3rd umpire. Player models look very dated today, and are occasionally amusingly bad (I'm thinking of Flintoff). However, the gameplay is balanced, and easy to get into. You'll be able to get the hang of Brian Lara International Cricket 2007 in a couple of overs, meaning anyone can enjoy it.

What this game lacks is more game modes. It's far from the complete cricket experience, so if you want to play a range of full five day tests, this isn't the game for you.

Nevertheless, with Brian Lara International Cricket 2007, Codemasters here made a game that gives Cricket a surprisingly exciting arcade feel that makes it very accessible.

Download Brian Lara International Cricket 2007 Demo in Softonic

If you're a huge fan of EA's other sports offerings, like FIFA and NHL, Cricket 2005 is another solid athletic offering. It's even got a great international aspect to it that any cricket lover is sure to appreciate.

Cricket 2005 offers you the option to compile and play on international teams, as well as bonus squads. In addition, this version lets you play domestic teams against one another. Users can now compete in England, India, New Zealand and South Africa.

The gameplay in Cricket 2005 centers around a presentation that looks like you're watching a televised broadcast of the game. This comes complete with a full action replay mode, as well as a third umpire, overlays in a TV-style format and a field position editor that lets users choose between auto or manual fielding. The full version also boasts more than 35 different stadium layouts, based on real stadiums in Melbourne, Auckland, Cape Town and various English cities.

Unfortunately, since Cricket 2005 is about six years old, the graphics aren't the most impressive, especially compared to other EA titles. If you're in it for solid cricket and excellent gameplay, however, it likely won't disappoint.

Cricket 2005's graphics may be a bit out of date, but this demo is still a fun experience for diehard cricket fans.

Download Cricket 2005 Demo in Softonic