instaling MTW v2.1 patch

[Ludens]

OK so i've downloaded the patch, so I just have to past the patch and the other files in the total war map?

I am not sure if I understand your question correctly. AFAIK the patch comes with its own installer that will ask you were to instal it. Target it to the M:TW map and everything should go fine.

[gardibolt]

Is the version of MTW that's currently in stores (the Battle Pack, I think, with VI included) fully patched, or would one need to download the patch?

[Geezer57]

Is the version of MTW that's currently in stores (the Battle Pack, I think, with VI included) fully patched, or would one need to download the patch?

Unless it's really old stock, the collection pack (MTW + VI) should be the latest version. After installation, go to the main menu - on the upper LH side of the screen, the version number should appear. Patch it only if it doesn't say v2.01.