. It often goes for under $2, saving you the risk of downloading malware disguised as a "license fixer." Are you trying to get the original 2008 version

No. Anyone selling a "universal code" is a scam. Each legitimate copy (Gold edition, Steam edition, Retail edition) has unique cryptography.

is superior to using the legacy non-Steam version for several reasons: Automatic Updates

Do not delete your purchase confirmation email. If you need to reinstall the game on a new computer, you will need that specific code again.