The question I want to know is, can I install the game from the CD to, say, a Steam directory or something, and have it be activated into my library, and thus track my time, achievements, library, etc. just as if I digitally downloaded it from Steam.

I know the game can be activated through Steam, but do I have to DOWNLOAD it from Steam for it to be recognized as a game in my library and patched by it? If that makes sense.

No, you don't.

You can install from the disc, that's really the only reason the disc is there. It's usually faster than downloading from steam. It will then function just as a version bought on steam does.

Downloading the game from the Steam servers is no different from installing it from the DVD. It's just a matter of which source you're using to copy the game data on your HDD.

read the sticky http://www.gamesas.com/index.php?/topic/1242199-skyrim-and-steam/

I got the pc version early (living in The Netherlands, yay!), but I wasn't yet able to install the game from the disk, so I only authenticated the serial and then preloaded the game via download. After 11/11/11 though, you can just use your disk to add the game to Steam.

Yessss you cannnn bind it to steam, bind it to mordor where the Shadows lies too.
Gollum, Gollum...

With Steam games, all you need is the CD-key. You don't need the content the disc. In fact, if Bethesda is releasing a day 1 patch then the content on your disc will be outdated anyway.

Just enter your Steam key and the game downloads itself. It's not rocket science, it's not witchcraft.... they include CD's because it's convenient for people with slower internet connections. You don't need the CDs at all... you just need the Steam key

this. /thread.

You need Steam to play the game on a PC NO MATTER HOW YOU INSTALL THE GAME (either off the DVDs or Digital Download)



So go ahead, install it via the DVDs. But you're going to have to launch the game from Steam in order for it to even work.

The Steam program is on the disc/dvd. As you install the game, Steam will be installed also. You need to be on-line to authenticate/verify the game, get the day-1 patch, etc., but afterwards you can put the game in off-line mode and play that way. Just make sure to check steam at some time, like once a day, to check for updates (before going back into off-line mode).

Good luck.

Perfect! Just what I needed to know, thanks!