I suspect the key given to you is activation ONCE you downloaded the Gamer's Gate version of the game.

i can only download the demo (387 MB)

You would have to have the game in your account to download it. Maybe ask the gifter if he/she can help you.

I think the key is indeed linked to both the forum and GG account. I should have probably gifted the game through GG. I just recall paradox keys always having been Steam keys up til now.

Just for the record :

i have a physical copy of sins of the solar empire : trinity -> key code is the same format

inside steam - the cd key for sword of the star II EE is also the same format -> but the steam key wasn't the same format.

i never saw a steam code with 6 blocks of characters / numbers (5 is the max i think)

basicaly the key here : is simply a paradox key , not a steam one. Since i don't use GG i'm no help here

True. Not sure there's any way to salvage this. My apologies.

i don't think you need to make some excuses ;)

you could still ask to GG how to use the code ^^

You know what. PM me your GamersGate user name or email and I'll see if the GG staff are willing to transfer the game to your account as a gift, since that option is no longer valid for having used the "show serial" option.

I'm pretty sure Gamers Gate's policy is that they do not allow gifting if you used the show serial button. I'm not sure what mileage you may have with asking them, but it is definitely worth a try.

no luck with gamersgate,
i also installed the demo (only Buy option... goes to browser)

No... the demo wouldn't work. GG would have to give you a downloader client where they serve you the actual game. You would have to wait until Armadillo230 can talk to GG support. I'd advise you to PM him and let him try to hook you up.

ok,
thanks for all your help :)
i'll pm him with gamersgate account

Done and done. It's in their hands now. I'll let you know when and if they send me a reply.

Good luck to you both! I hope GG can give darkplanetar the game.