installation

[Gabba]

when you install hl2 retail version what files are installed before they are validated using steam?? Are they gcfs?

i was just wondering as i have a valid cd-key(off ebay) and i need to install it.

Gabba

 

[Chris D]

I would say one of two things is going to happen:

1) The CD-key you have will already be in use
2) It will get disabled by Steam as it is likely generated by some sort of key generator or someone read it from a display box at a games store and it will get disabled and a new one given to the person who actually bought the game.

Buy it from a shop or you'll run into massive problems.

To answer your question: Yes, it is the GCF files that are validated. If you already have those downloaded then to get them unlocked click on your Games list > Click on Browse Games > Click on Register a Product I Already Own > Enter CD-key and hope for the best.

 

[firemachine69]

There's no such thing as "just a HL2 key", it's obviously a flake, only Valve sells a cd-key type of dealie, through Steam. If it were an ATI Voucher, then he'd need to send it for it to be legit.