supersi

I need to reformat my PC. I have recently moved into temporary accommodation and my game box (with serial) is packed in storage far, far away. How can I find my game key on my PC?

I tried using a whole bunch of keyfinding programs, but all they found were Windows and Adobe keys, no game keys.

Does COD MW2 have a default registry location?

ishter

doubt it, best bet would be to email IW with proof of purchase and explain your situation.

Nibbles

Doesn't the game just get associated with your steam account which will keep track of these things and allow you to re-download / play without requiring the CD-key again?

I'm sure that's how it worked when I played Half Life 2 and CS:Source a few months back - just downloaded the apps I had already purchased (originally retail on DVD) via Steam.

supersi

I hope so. I'll try a Steam forum to find out.

ishter

oh i mis-read the post, what nibbles stated is correct. you can simply log onto another computer, download steam, and install the game through your games list.

supersi

Okay, here's the situation....

My PC has a virus I can't get rid of - solution: Format C: and reinstall Windows 7 OS. Will I have to do a fresh reinstall of CODMW2 even though it is installed on F: not C: ?

If so, does it matter that I don't have my retail install disk or the key, all I need to do is download the steam app, login and it will download and reinstall the game for me?.

abc

If F and C are on the same physical drive it'd be a good idea to format both partitions. If not formatting C drive should do.

Moral of story: don't get viruses.

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This is getting repetitive.

supersi

No, F: is physically seperate from C:
I don't need advice on formatting or not getting viruses. I will restate my question...

My PC has a virus (which everyone get's AT LEAST once in their lives) I can't get rid of - solution: Format C: and reinstall Windows 7 OS. Will I have to do a fresh reinstall of CODMW2 even though it is installed on F: a physically seperate drive from C: ?

If so, does it matter that I don't have my retail install disk or the key, all I need to do is download the steam app, login and it will download and reinstall the game for me?.

Nibbles

You can use the Steam backup / restore feature to be on the safe side - It may not be required but it doesn't take long according to this article.

And no, from experience you don't need the install disks - I never did for my games - I can't speak for all titles but I can't see why they'd be any different.

How to backup and reinstall your Steam games! - VIA Forums

BuuGh0st

Yeah changed the bit that was incorrect.

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supersi

Thanks! I'll try that.

Voodoo

in response to finding the CD keys, ( i don't have MW2 ) but you can find keys via regedit: e.g COD4 key:

run > regedit > local machine > software > activision > cod 4 > then there should be the key.

although this isnt' a steam game and on vista so might not help.

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