First time Steam user (help)

[soccerlover10cf]

Hello. The last Total War game that I've played was Medieval II. So, I've never used Steam to purchase and download games -- always bought my games hard copy.

A few questions..

1. Let's say I purchase and download Rome II on Steam and install the game to my computer. If my computer breaks down and I end up getting a new computer, can I install the game on my new computer? Do I have to uninstall the game from my old computer first before installing to my new computer? How does this work, exactly?

2. I suppose my first question should be able to answer question #2, but can I install the game on multiple computers? I was able to install Medieval 2 on multiple computers, so my roommate was able to play the game as well without having to purchase another copy. Can I do the same thing if I purchase the game on Steam?

3. IF I'm able to install the game on multiple computers, can I play co-op campaign this way as well? Meaning, can I play co-op campaign with another person from purchasing one copy of Rome II on Steam? Or do I technically have to purchase two Rome II games (assuming I need two different activation codes to play co-op) if I want to play co-op campaign with another person?

4. Is there any difference between hard copy and purchasing/downloading games on Steam? Pros & cons?

Thanks!

[Aelita]

You can install the game on multiple computers, however since you need to be logged in to steam to play you cant play online agent your self (you can only be logged in on one computer at a time) There may be a way to work around this, by putting your steam account in ofline mode on one computer then logging in on another and using a LAN connections, but i havent tried it

[Irish guy]

You can install it on a million computers, but you can only play it on one of them at a time

[soccerlover10cf]

Ah, thanks for quick replies. Do you guys know if I'll be able to play the game on multiple computers simultaneously if I get the game as hard copy?

[Risasi]

Here is where Steam sucks.

I have multiple computers. Even to play LAN, I have to own multiple copies. That's fine, but I also had to create multiple Steam accounts. Then I also have to remember which computer is logged into what Steam account. I've also had problems with authentication because I have multiple accounts. It's very obnoxious.

[Aelita]

Buying the hard copy makes no difference, you still have to register the game with steam