The Standalone and Steam versions can crossplay together in multiplayer. Updates are released for both versions simultaneously.
Most players should use the standalone version of DCS World rather than the Steam version.
Advantages of the Standalone Version
Choice of Store
The Steam version of DCS World only allows the use of content purchased on Steam. The Standalone version allows the use of content purchased from Steam, the ED store, the Heatblur store, and the OrbX store.
Competition between stores can help you get a better deal on your purchases.
- Steam has favorable exchange rates and foreign transaction fees for some countries.
- The ED store offers ED Miles, a loyalty program that can be redeemed for discounts on some future purchases from the ED Store, such as modules from Eagle Dynamics.
- The Heatblur store offers exclusive merchandise for Heatblur products. For example, preorders for the F-4 Phantom included an option to add a T-shirt at an inexpensive price.
- The OrbX store offers Orbs, a loyalty program that can be redeemed for discounts on future OrbX purchases, such as addons for Microsoft Flight Simulator.
Free Trials
The standalone version of DCS World offers free trials for most modules, allowing you to try before you buy. Each module can be trialed for 2 weeks, with the trial resetting after 6 months. Each module’s trial is independent, so you can trial multiple modules at once, or trial different modules at different times.
To activate a trial, either:
- Log into the DCS World website, then go to https://www.digitalcombatsimulator.com/en/personal/licensing/trial/ and click “TRY” on the module you want to trial
OR
- Activate the trials through the game launcher
Longer Sales
The ED store begins sales earlier and ends sales later than the Steam store.
Earlier Access to New Modules
New modules are usually released on the standalone version of DCS World before they are released on Steam.
Advantages of the Steam Version
Faster Downloads
Steam’s download servers are faster than ED’s download servers.
Automatic Updates
Steam will automatically keep DCS World up to date, including running updates during off-peak hours. The standalone version requires you to update on launch.