Can someone explain preloading to me?

[kaMMakaZZi9]

It doesn’t ultimately take up more space to preload does it? I know the files still have to be unpacked once the game launches. My internet is fine but I’m considering preloading CP2077 this morning. I have no data cap. Should I just wait until launch?

[aiusepsi]

It will temporarily need more space because it unpacks the preload into the actual game install, but then the preload is deleted, so it won't take up any extra space in the long term.

A preload works a lot like a Steam backup (that is, like what you'd make by right-clicking on a game, and going to properties, local files, backup game files...). The game installing from a preload is, technically speaking, nearly identical to installing from a backup (although the install from a preload is automatic, rather than manual like a backup).

[eram]

Pre loading does what it says and takes up no extra room than waiting for the game to be released. On the day the game comes out you may still have some downloading to do even with the pre load. Day 1 patch etc.

[8ullfrog]

Preload is a download.

HL2 preloaded before "release", so you had the files on your hard drive, they were essentially a lockbox.

Release hour came, the lockbox unlocked.

So yes, you are downloading the game. How much it will unpack to become I can't tell you. But preloading is prudent in that you do not become part of the launch hammering.

[kaMMakaZZi9]

Everyone will be getting the 43 gig day 1 patch at the same time though so it’s almost a moot point.

[8ullfrog]

ouch.

[Ogami]

Originally posted by kaMMakaZZi9:

Everyone will be getting the 43 gig day 1 patch at the same time though so it’s almost a moot point.

The day 1 patch is included in the Steam preload and PC version in general.
Its only on console where you will have to downlod it extra.

[ReBoot]

Originally posted by Ougi:

Originally posted by kaMMakaZZi9:

Everyone will be getting the 43 gig day 1 patch at the same time though so it’s almost a moot point.

The day 1 patch is included in the Steam preload and PC version in general.
Its only on console where you will have to downlod it extra.

I suppose you'd have to download it on PC as well if you install the disc version.

[Ogami]

Originally posted by ReBoot:

I suppose you'd have to download it on PC as well if you install the disc version.

I dont think there even is a PC disc version. You can buy a physical Collectors Edition but as far as i know it only contains a Steam key.
I have not seen any PC games in the store that have the game on disc in years.
Its usually just a Steam installer or even just a empty case with a code.

[Ryn]

Originally posted by Ougi:

Originally posted by kaMMakaZZi9:

Everyone will be getting the 43 gig day 1 patch at the same time though so it’s almost a moot point.

The day 1 patch is included in the Steam preload and PC version in general.
Its only on console where you will have to downlod it extra.

How do you know dat?

[kaMMakaZZi9]

Any ‘physical’ copy for PC will be a GOG key.

[alation13]

kaMMakaZZi9 has Cyberpunk 2077 3 hours ago
Can someone explain preloading to me?

It is when the daddy internet inserts his data into the mommy hard drive, and in a few days baby cyberpunk 2077 pops out.

[dustin1280]

Preload is as follows:
It downloads an encrypted copy of the entire game to your computer.

On release it starts the decryption/unpacking process. Temporarily, this will make the game take up TWICE as much space as it normally does.

Once the decryption/unpacking process is complete, the game will no longer take double space on your storage medium.

Finally, if you have a stable 100 mpbs connection, you are usually better of downloading on release and skipping decryption all together.