How to get rid of Origin while still playing games that require it?

Is there a way to play games that require Origin without allowing it to scan my computer?

The idea is to have it running as a dedicated user on my computer which does not have any permissions so it cannot scan my hard drive. Can this work?

Origin is EA's answer to Steam - that is, it's an integrated store and gaming platform, with social bells and whistles thrown in because why not.

Just like Steam, it's rather deeply integrated into some games (most big EA titles from here on, it seems, such as the upcoming Mass Effect 3) which means you can't just get rid of it. It's required to play some of their games, just as Steam was (and is) required to play Half-Life 2, the first flagship title that Valve used to promote Steam, amongst others.

I haven't seen any information on playing Origin games without it installed, apart from one hack for Battlefield 3 (which could easily result in permanent bans as it's against their agreement).

As you also asked for a link to removal instructions in your comment above, you can either use the normal Add/Remove Programs menu from the Control Panel, or have a look at this EA page for manual uninstallation instructions. Do note the Scary Red Text saying:

NOTE: If you remove Origin, you will lose accessibility and playability to any downloaded games and manuals until you reinstall Origin.

So this will not let you play your games without Origin.

Origin is not a spyware program. It is a games platform like Steam.

It should show up in the add/remove programs list, via control panel.

It generally needs to be running for EA games. as it updates your games on the fly, using the internet. I dont recommend removing it, unless you intend to also uninstall your EA games. (i.e you no longer play them).

Simple un-install instructions:

1. Click the start button at the bottom left hand corner of your screen.
2. Click "Control Panel." Open up the "Add or Remove Programs" in the window.
3. Scroll down the current installed program list and find Origin.
4. Click Origin and click remove button
5. A window will pop up, and you can now click on, "Uninstall." .
6. Wait for a minute while your computer removes the Origin and the files.

For instructions how to remove Origin (and associated games) entirely from your system, check this link:

Manually Uninstalling Origin

It may be possible to apply only part of this guide to remove Origin but not the already installed games, but I'm afraid I don't know the specifics. The Wikipedia article hints at this but has no source for it.

If you manage that, however, there will still be no legitimate way to actually install new EA games without using the Origin client.