I did a load of creatine that was expired 2 years before and got great gains before.
But I'm stupid and don't really care about my kindey so don't do it.
Also powder>pills
When you load creatine try to take 4 times 5 grams through the day, one right before gym for the pump.
Remember to drink your 3L of water everyday EXCLUDING the 1.5L you should drink during your workout.
Don't think that you don't need to drink that much water, creatine is all about water retemption.