If I leave the DVD in the drive, shut down the computer, then later start up, the next game I play of New Vegas will crash often.

If I then remove the DVD, reboot, insert the DVD, allow Steam to load, then launch the game, no crashes at all.

Why are you doing this? You don't need the cd in the drive. That's what Steam is for.

I'm anti-Steam. I can do my own saves.

According to the packaging on the game I bought, Steam is only needed for activation. Unfortunately, that is not the case.

You still don't need the DVD... the game doesn't use it for anything, or even look to see if it is there. It is only for installation.

Also, to clarify on your statement above, Steam only needs to connect to the internet for activation, after that you can play with Steam in off-line mode.

Thank you, Lefty. Never tried it without the DVD!