Comparison of steam version and direct download version

[Keybounce]

I can find this game available either directly here, or on Steam. And if I'm buying anything other than 1 or 2, it includes both the download and steam keys.

I can't find this anywhere else (checked humble and gog).

The steam version claims to be an updated version (for both CW 1 and 2), with updated graphics, etc.
No such claim is made for the direct download version.

Are the two versions the same? Is the Steam version newer than the download version?

[Karsten75]

Any and all of the games you buy directly from the site allows you to also get a Steam key.

You are correct in observing that the games are not available form sites other than directly (via fastpring) or from Steam.

the original Creeper World and Creeper World 2 has some new music added and the units were re-skinned for the Steam version. As far as game play and available maps are concerned, the two are identical.  Some people don't like the reskinned units in CW1 on Steam and prefer the traditional units.