Can't redeem CD key from boxed version

[Domino]

I have this boxed version of AO3: Complete Collection with three CD keys: One for the base game, one for Warchiefs, and one for Asian Dynasties. I've tried redeeming every key on Steam, but it won't work. Is there something I'm supposed to be doing to get my copy of AO3 on Steam without buying it again?

[Eaglemut]

You cannot redeem those old keys on Steam. Why do you want to get your AOE3 on Steam? Just install the game from your CDs and play, the Steam version is exactly the same and doesn't offer any improvements whatsoever.

The only problem might be if you don't have a CD/DVD drive anymore. In that case you could just get the installer from some third-party website, though it's technically illegal.

[Domino]

I wanted to have my game on Steam for a few reasons, the main one being I need disc 1 in the CD drive if I want to play. Other small reasons would be for trading cards and me wanting to centralize all my games in one medium.
I guess I could install the game and find a No-CD patch, though I've never used one before.

[Eaglemut]

Originally posted by Domino:

I wanted to have my game on Steam for a few reasons, the main one being I need disc 1 in the CD drive if I want to play. Other small reasons would be for trading cards and me wanting to centralize all my games in one medium.
I guess I could install the game and find a No-CD patch, though I've never used one before.

You don't need to find it. Just update your game to the latest version, it includes an official no-CD patch by default! I assume you're playing on the last expansion TAD, so just go Multiplayer -> ES Online and your game will be automatically updated. You can also play online with the rest of us over there, not sure if you've tried multiplayer before.