Ok so i had this problem too, i downloaded the full game from steam and installed it all but when i loaded the game i joined a server and had the loading screen, what i did wrong was i DIDN'T install the beta as it correctly lists in the instructions listed below. Install the beta which is mentioned in the install insructions (i thought having the full game this wouldn't be an issues - IT IS!) Here are the instructions i used: http://dayzwiki.com/wiki/index.php?title=How_to_install_DayZ So i compiled the instructions from that site into an easy to understand and follow summary below: Before you click the download links please check wheather you installed the game from steam or from retail IT WILL MAKE A DIFFERENCE, Then read the instructions below accordingly. BETA download link: http://www.arma2.com/beta-patch.php RETAIL - Beta Patch Install Instructions 1. Download and install beta patch from http://www.arma2.com/beta-patch.php (Latest patch is in the green field top of page) 2. If you are met with a "Password screen" then choose the top version on page (Not in the green field) 3. Go to the Arma2:OA main directory and right-click on shortcut "Launch Arma2 OA Beta Patch". Add "-mod=@dayz" without quotes to the target line. 4. Run "Launch Arma2 OA Beta Patch" and enjoy playing! NOTE: Remember to install DayZ MOD before launching the game! STEAM - Beta Patch Install Instructions 1. Download and install beta patch from http://www.arma2.com/beta-patch.php (Latest patch is in the green field top of page) 2. If you are met with a "Password screen" then choose the top version on page (Not in the green field) 3. Go to the Arma 2: Operation Arrowhead directory (for example C:\Program Files (x86)\Bohemia Interactive\ArmA 2 Operation Arrowhead) and right-click -> edit on .cmd file "_runA2CO_beta.cmd". Search for ":run" near the end of the file. Add ";@dayz" without quotes to "-mod=%_ARMA2PATH%;EXPANSION;ca". 4. Run "_runA2CO_beta.cmd" and enjoy playing! You may create a new shortcut to "_runA2CO_beta.cmd" NOTE: Remember to install DayZ MOD before launching the game! AFTER you install the beta you will need to open the Six launcher and click verify if you haven't already becuase it needs to verify the version you installed HOPE THIS HELPED!!!