BuB, I got the game for $20 at Game Stop. Yes, it can be had for less online but I wanted a hardcopy and I avoid using my creditcard online as much as I can. I am very happy with the price. I still have not downloaded anything or loaded the game itself. Like you I am researching a little first. My list is actually advice from a good chap that I am uncomfortable speaking for or dragging into this any deeper. He knows who he is and maybe he will post on this for us. I only offer advice from my experience but for starters my understanding is that the game needs to be patched to vers. 4.08 and then to 4.09 dowloads are at the ALL Aircraft Arcade. Best wishes, Jim