[Lone Wolf]

I have Windows XP and have found that some games refuse to play on it, while others run great. All I can do is give you some tips I've learned when games wouldn't run properly. Good luck!

The below are basic Windows steps to update and optimize your system. Not all steps may be needed, so test the game after each.

*ALWAYS reboot your system when asked.

Read the System Requirements and all of the documentation that came with the game (including help or readme files on the disks).
Uninstall the game and Reinstall it. If available, choose a Maximum installation.


Run the Disk Cleanup utility and then Disk Defragment your hard disk. (Start--Programs--System Tools)


Download Patches and Install them. Usually can be found in the manufacturer's web site Technical Support area.


Run the DirectX Diagnostic Tool.

(Start--Programs--System Information--Tools Menu--DirectX Diagnostic Tool) Install a newer version of DirectX if available.


Update your audio card drivers.

(Start--Control Panel--Sounds and Audio Devices--Hardware Tab. Highlight each device and select Properties--Drivers Tab--Driver Update.)


Update your video card drivers.

(Start--Control Panel--Display Properties. The top tabs and buttons vary between video cards. Find the Properties for your card, usually under "Advanced". There should be a button or tab for Drivers.)


Disable Scheduled Tasks and Anti-virus software.

(Right click on system tray icons - bottom right of your desktop)


If your game still won't run, do each of the following one at a time,
testing the game after each.


Change the Compatibility of the program to Windows 95 / 98 or 2000

(Right click on the game's start program icon. Click on Properties--Compatibility top tab--Compatibility Mode. Click on "Run this program in compatibility mode for... " and then select one. Click OK.) Try each one if your first choice does not work.


Change your system to run for Best Performance instead of Best Appearance.

Note: This will change the way all of your folders look and work in Windows XP. Change this back to its original settings after finishing the game if you wish.

(Start--Control Panel--System--Advanced Tab--Performance Settings. Check "Adjust for Best Performance". Click OK.)


Reduce Video Acceleration

Note: Repeat this as necessary until the game plays. Other programs may be affected.

(Start--Control Panel--System--Hardware Tab--Device Manager. Highlight your CD-Rom drive and RIGHT click on it. Click on Properties and then the Properties top tab. Move the bar down a notch or two. Click OK.)


Reduce Audio Acceleration

(Start--Control Panel--Sounds and Audio Devices--Audio top tab--Advanced--Performance top tab. Move bar down to None. Click OK.)

Hopefully some of these simple tips may help you if you run into problems running games under Windows XP. Always remember to Back Up Your System. Good Luck!