I don't know if there are any DRM free versions of the game, but I think GG clearly labels when a game is DRM-free or not.

Got a reply from GG and unfortunately they couldn't do anything about it even if they wanted to.

I remember having DRM issues with CK2 myself. If you buy the game from either Steam or GG, make sure you buy any future DLC from the same place, since they're not compatible with each other for whatever reason. Kinda sucks, but what can you do.

no worries
i also like to have games from trusted firms like Steam or GoG
so i don't care if some forum offers me some virtual game and not a physical copy :)

Armadillo230 thanks for all your hard work and giveaway :)
hope you didn't lose any money

I can confirm that GG version of CK II is DRM free (aside from the usual GG installer shenanigans). Once you have it installed on your computer you can do anything you want with it.

The “forum code” is not a for activating (or gifting) the game. It is used to register your copy of the game on the Paradox forums, so that you can access sub-forums for the game like Tech support and such. However, you don’t have to register your game to play it, or even download updates.

Thank you for bearing with me and sorry it didn't pan out. No money lost, it was a pre-order bonus for buying EU IV, nice game as well by the way.

Glad to hear that. Thanks!
:)