STICKY: Getting the game running!

Finally got game loaded and can play approx 10 turns then it crashes. Any help would be greatly appreciated

Successfully updated karma reason!

I can't get the game to install. I bought the retail version, installed from the CD. I can't update the game either through the stand-alone download online or Stardock Central. Stardock Central displays this error:

There was an error installing Galactic Civilizations II. The following error occurred:

Move: C:\Games\GalCiv2\SDPlugins\DXAxHost.dll 0 | 0 Access is denied. | 12/11/2005 20:48
Result: Installation failed (29)

Here is the tail end of the Install Log:

-- [Installing] -----------------------------------------------------
Server: http://sdcentral.stardock.com
Server Dir: public
Network Id: drengin
Name: Galactic Civilizations II
App Id: gc2
Installed: True
Version: 1.0D1.008
Type: production
Reg Key: GalCiv2
Install Dir: C:\Games\GalCiv2
Exe: gc2launch.exe
Last Updated: 02/25/2006

-- [Account] --------------------------------------------------------
First Name: Jud
Last Name: Stevens
Email: [DELETED BY ME FOR FORUM POSTING]

-- [Installation] ---------------------------------------------------
Download: C:\Program Files\Stardock\SDCentral\data\public\gc2\production\gc2.xml 1
Load: C:\Program Files\Stardock\SDCentral\data\public\gc2\production\gc2.xml 1
Load: C:\Program Files\Stardock\SDCentral\installed\gc2.xml 1
Download: C:\Program Files\Stardock\SDCentral\temp\Base\SDPlugins\DXAxHost.dll_ 1 | 12/11/2005 04:48 | 164365
Download: C:\Program Files\Stardock\SDCentral\temp\Base\Activate.exe_ 1 | 12/12/2005 22:20 | 238194
Download: C:\Program Files\Stardock\SDCentral\temp\Base\eula.txt_ 1 | 02/20/2006 19:54 | 2490
Download: C:\Program Files\Stardock\SDCentral\temp\Base\GalCiv2.exe_ 1 | 02/24/2006 03:34 | 1595640
Download: C:\Program Files\Stardock\SDCentral\temp\Base\GC2Launch.exe_ 1 | 02/02/2006 21:55 | 317969
Download: C:\Program Files\Stardock\SDCentral\temp\Base\history.txt_ 1 | 02/24/2006 23:24 | 2607
Download: C:\Program Files\Stardock\SDCentral\temp\Base\Lib3D.dll_ 1 | 02/24/2006 03:33 | 197871
Download: C:\Program Files\Stardock\SDCentral\temp\Base\readme.txt_ 1 | 02/24/2006 01:38 | 2965
Download: C:\Program Files\Stardock\SDCentral\temp\Base\wise_post.exe_ 1 | 02/20/2006 00:22 | 1489475
Extract: C:\Program Files\Stardock\SDCentral\temp\Base\SDPlugins\DXAxHost.dll_ 1 | 12/11/2005 04:48
Extract: C:\Program Files\Stardock\SDCentral\temp\Base\Activate.exe_ 1 | 12/12/2005 22:20
Extract: C:\Program Files\Stardock\SDCentral\temp\Base\eula.txt_ 1 | 02/20/2006 19:54
Extract: C:\Program Files\Stardock\SDCentral\temp\Base\GalCiv2.exe_ 1 | 02/24/2006 03:34
Extract: C:\Program Files\Stardock\SDCentral\temp\Base\GC2Launch.exe_ 1 | 02/02/2006 21:55
Extract: C:\Program Files\Stardock\SDCentral\temp\Base\history.txt_ 1 | 02/24/2006 23:24
Extract: C:\Program Files\Stardock\SDCentral\temp\Base\Lib3D.dll_ 1 | 02/24/2006 03:33
Extract: C:\Program Files\Stardock\SDCentral\temp\Base\readme.txt_ 1 | 02/24/2006 01:38
Extract: C:\Program Files\Stardock\SDCentral\temp\Base\wise_post.exe_ 1 | 02/20/2006 00:22
Move: C:\Games\GalCiv2\SDPlugins\DXAxHost.dll 0 | 0 Access is denied. | 12/11/2005 20:48
Result: Installation failed (29)

Trying to download through the standalone web page gives me a server disconnected error.

Is there a temporary problem on Stardock's side, or is it me? Stardock Central has always worked so perfectly in the past, this is really starting to bug the crap out of me. Any help is greatly appreciated.

On a plus side, the Windows theme is pretty sweet.

Successfully updated karma reason!

The intro movie loads, Gets to the end (Or I cancel it) and the game just dies on me.

Debug Message: Version v1.0D-1 Digital: Bonus Pack last updated on: Fri Feb 24 12:35:33 2006
Debug Message: *********DXDiag info follows.*********
System Info
Time: 3/3/2006, 16:35:21
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: GAMER
Operating System: Windows XP Professional (5.1, Build 2600) (2600.xpclient.010817-1148)
Languages: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: GBT___
System Model: AWRDACPI
BIOS: Award Modular BIOS v6.00PG
Processor: AMD Athlon(tm) XP 2500+, ~1.8GHz
Physical Memory: 512MB RAM
Page File: 228MB used, 1022MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS

Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: GIGABYTE RADEON 9250
Manufacturer: ATI Technologies Inc.
Chip Type: RADEON 9250 AGP (0x5960)
DAC Type: Internal DAC(400MHz)
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_5960&SUBSYS_40541458&REV_01
Display Memory: 128.0 MB
Current Display Mode: 1024 x 768 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor Name: Plug and Play Monitor
Monitor Max Resolution: 1600,1200
Driver Name: ati2dvag.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.6599
Driver Date: 1/25/2006 16:52:48
DirectX Acceleration Enabled: Yes

Sound info
Sound device 1:
Description: Avance AC97 Audio
Default Sound Playback: Yes
Default Voice Playback: Yes
Hardware ID: PCI\VEN_1106&DEV_3059&SUBSYS_A0021458&REV_50
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: ALCXWDM.SYS
Provider: Avance Logic, Inc.
Driver Version: 5.10.0000.4010
Driver Date: 9/16/2002 23:25:02
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 1
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0

Debug Message: *********END dxdiag info.*********
Debug Message: Entering WinMain
Debug Message: ******* Starting Game Shell *******
Debug Message: Going Fullscreen
Debug Message: Preparing to change display settings.
Debug Message: Using multilsample setting: D3DMULTISAMPLE_NONMASKABLE
Debug Message: Game Resolution: 1024 x 768
Debug Message: Running fullscreen.
Debug Message: HAL (hw vp): GIGABYTE RADEON 9250
Debug Message: D3DPRESENT_INTERVAL_DEFAULT
Debug Message: Refresh rate: 60
Debug Message: Bit Depth: 32 bit.
Debug Message: *********Checking D3DDevice Caps***********************
Debug Message: A full-color cursor is supported in hardware at high resolution modes.
Debug Message: RGB in format 6:6:6, Masks reported as ff0000:ff00:ff
Debug Message: Now Fullscreen
Debug Message: Shell initialization complete
Debug Message: ***** Initializing Game *****
Debug Message: Timer Frequency is 0 369e99
Debug Message: Initializing sound card.
Debug Message: initailizing bink
Debug Message: Create setup screens.
Debug Message: Clear galaxy settings.
Debug Message: Clear influence.
Debug Message: Clear up laws.
Debug Message: Clear first time events.
Debug Message: Clear wonders and trade goods.
Debug Message: Clear sector mapper.
Debug Message: Set mouse.
Debug Message: Set update timer.
Debug Message: Clear data definitions.
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Ryan\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\*.StarSystems

Its been like this since the latest update.

Beforehand it worked.

Successfully updated karma reason!

Hi, I pre-ordered the game through Ebgames, received it, installed it, and now whenever I try to play it, the game crashes and auto reboots my system. Once I got a number of turns into the game before it crashes and auto reboots, but when I tried it tonight, it got to the main menu and then crashed, rebooted, etc. I also get the "Windows has experienced a serious error..." message.

I have updated drivers, my system meets the recommended requirements, I turned off anti-aliasing, I'm running it in 32-bit mode, etc., and it still crashes and auto reboots my system within a minute or two of me starting the game up.

I also downloaded Smart Exception and turned it on. When the game crashed and rebooted the system, it didn't give me any sort of error report.

I'm hoping it's a heat issue and the next patch will resolve this problem, but if there's anything else I should be doing, let me know.

Here's my most recent error log:

Debug Message: Version v1.0D-1 Digital: Bonus Pack last updated on: Fri Feb 24 12:35:33 2006
Debug Message: Could not find a TGN Serial No.
Debug Message: *********DXDiag info follows.*********
System Info
Time: 3/2/2006, 20:46:02
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: NITRO
Operating System: Windows XP Professional (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 2 (2600.xpsp_sp2_gdr.050301-1519)
Languages: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: GBT___
System Model: AWRDACPI
BIOS: Award Modular BIOS v6.00PG
Processor: AMD Athlon(tm) 64 Processor 3200+, MMX, 3DNow, ~2.0GHz
Physical Memory: 1024MB RAM
Page File: 177MB used, 2282MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS

Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: NVIDIA GeForce 6600 GT
Manufacturer: NVIDIA
Chip Type: GeForce 6600 GT
DAC Type: Integrated RAMDAC
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_10DE&DEV_0140&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_A2
Display Memory: 128.0 MB
Current Display Mode: 1024 x 768 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor Name: Plug and Play Monitor
Monitor Max Resolution: 1600,1200
Driver Name: nv4_disp.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.8198
Driver Date: 12/10/2005 03:06:00
DirectX Acceleration Enabled: Yes

Sound info
Sound device 1:
Description: Realtek HD Audio output
Default Sound Playback: Yes
Default Voice Playback: Yes
Hardware ID: HDAUDIO\FUNC_01&VEN_10EC&DEV_0880&SUBSYS_1458F603&REV_1008
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: RtkHDAud.sys
Provider: Realtek Semiconductor Corp.
Driver Version: 5.10.0000.5136
Driver Date: 7/13/2005 01:26:52
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 3
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0

Debug Message: *********END dxdiag info.*********
Debug Message: Entering WinMain
Debug Message: ******* Starting Game Shell *******
Debug Message: Going Fullscreen
Debug Message: Preparing to change display settings.
Debug Message: Using multilsample setting: D3DMULTISAMPLE_NONE
Debug Message: Game Resolution: 1024 x 768
Debug Message: Running fullscreen.
Debug Message: HAL (hw vp): NVIDIA GeForce 6600 GT
Debug Message: D3DPRESENT_INTERVAL_DEFAULT
Debug Message: Refresh rate: 60
Debug Message: Bit Depth: 32 bit.
Debug Message: *********Checking D3DDevice Caps***********************
Debug Message: A full-color cursor is supported in hardware at high resolution modes.
Debug Message: RGB in format 6:6:6, Masks reported as ff0000:ff00:ff
Debug Message: Now Fullscreen
Debug Message: Shell initialization complete
Debug Message: ***** Initializing Game *****
Debug Message: Timer Frequency is 0 369e99
Debug Message: Initializing sound card.
Debug Message: initailizing bink
Debug Message: Create setup screens.
Debug Message: Clear galaxy settings.
Debug Message: Clear influence.
Debug Message: Clear up laws.
Debug Message: Clear first time events.
Debug Message: Clear wonders and trade goods.
Debug Message: Clear sector mapper.
Debug Message: Set mouse.
Debug Message: Set update timer.
Debug Message: Clear data definitions.
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Ron\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\*.StarSystems
*DEBUG ERROR: ***Unable to find required tech ImpossibleTech for PirateShip. ***
*DEBUG ERROR: ***Unable to find required tech ImpossibleTech for Starbase. ***
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Ron\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.shipclass
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Ron\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.shipcfg
Debug Message: Reading Star Names
Debug Message: Reading Star Names... Done

Successfully updated karma reason!

Hello,

When I first start up the game everything runs fine, but after a few minutes graphical distortions,for lack of a better term, start occurring. They look like pieces of the screen that start and stop shaking. The longer the game runs, the worse it gets. After a while the computer just locks up on me and I have to reboot. I've installed drivers for my graphics card, but it didn't help. I also tried changing the resolution, running it in a window, and turning off anti-alaising. And I'm running in 32 bit mode. Here's the debug.

Debug Message: Version v1.0D-1 Digital: Bonus Pack last updated on: Fri Feb 24 12:35:33 2006
Debug Message: Could not find a TGN Serial No.
Debug Message: *********DXDiag info follows.*********
System Info
Time: 3/3/2006, 03:36:57
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: COOLBLUE
Operating System: Windows XP Professional (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 2 (2600.xpsp_sp2_gdr.050301-1519)
Languages: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: Dell Computer Corporation
System Model: Dimension XPS Gen 2
BIOS: Phoenix ROM BIOS PLUS Version 1.10 A03
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 3.40GHz (2 CPUs)
Physical Memory: 2046MB RAM
Page File: 298MB used, 3644MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS

Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: RADEON 9800 XT
Manufacturer: ATI Technologies Inc.
Chip Type: RADEON 9800 XT AGP (0x4E4A)
DAC Type: Internal DAC(400MHz)
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4E4A&SUBSYS_10021002&REV_00
Display Memory: 256.0 MB
Current Display Mode: 1280 x 1024 (32 bit) (85Hz)
Monitor Name: Plug and Play Monitor
Monitor Max Resolution: 1600,1200
Driver Name: ati2dvag.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.6599
Driver Date: 1/24/2006 22:52:48
DirectX Acceleration Enabled: Yes

Sound info
Sound device 1:
Description: SB Audigy Audio [CD80]
Default Sound Playback: Yes
Default Voice Playback: Yes
Hardware ID: PCI\VEN_1102&DEV_0004&SUBSYS_10031102&REV_04
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: ctaud2k.sys
Provider: Creative
Driver Version: 5.12.0001.0328
Driver Date: 3/26/2003 16:33:58
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 3
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0

Debug Message: *********END dxdiag info.*********
Debug Message: Entering WinMain
Debug Message: ******* Starting Game Shell *******
Debug Message: Going Fullscreen
Debug Message: Preparing to change display settings.
Debug Message: Using multilsample setting: D3DMULTISAMPLE_2_SAMPLES
Debug Message: Game Resolution: 1280 x 1024
Debug Message: Running fullscreen.
Debug Message: HAL (hw vp): RADEON 9800 XT
Debug Message: D3DPRESENT_INTERVAL_DEFAULT
Debug Message: Refresh rate: 85
Debug Message: Bit Depth: 32 bit.
Debug Message: *********Checking D3DDevice Caps***********************
Debug Message: A full-color cursor is supported in hardware at high resolution modes.
Debug Message: RGB in format 6:6:6, Masks reported as ff0000:ff00:ff
Debug Message: Now Fullscreen
Debug Message: Shell initialization complete
Debug Message: ***** Initializing Game *****
Debug Message: Timer Frequency is 0 ca271940
Debug Message: Initializing sound card.
Debug Message: initailizing bink
Debug Message: Create setup screens.
Debug Message: Clear galaxy settings.
Debug Message: Clear influence.
Debug Message: Clear up laws.
Debug Message: Clear first time events.
Debug Message: Clear wonders and trade goods.
Debug Message: Clear sector mapper.
Debug Message: Set mouse.
Debug Message: Set update timer.
Debug Message: Clear data definitions.
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\James Allen\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\*.StarSystems
*DEBUG ERROR: ***Unable to find required tech ImpossibleTech for PirateShip. ***
*DEBUG ERROR: ***Unable to find required tech ImpossibleTech for Starbase. ***
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\James Allen\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.shipclass
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\James Allen\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.shipcfg
Debug Message: Reading Star Names
Debug Message: Reading Star Names... Done
Debug Message: Creating Galaxy
Debug Message: Set galaxy size.
Debug Message: Killing threads.
Debug Message: Kiling civs.
Debug Message: Killing ships.
Debug Message: Killing rallypoints.
Debug Message: Killing misc objects.
Debug Message: Killing stars.
Debug Message: Killing anomalies.
Debug Message: Killing space resources.
Debug Message: Killing colonies and planets.
Debug Message: killing scenario.
Debug Message: Clear galaxy settings.
Debug Message: Clear influence.
Debug Message: Clear up laws.
Debug Message: Clear first time events.
Debug Message: Clear wonders and trade goods.
Debug Message: Clear sector mapper.
Debug Message: Num Anomalies: 7
Debug Message: MissionWnd: Cannot find OBJID Campaign_MiniMap_Window
Debug Message: CustomRaceWnd: Cannot find OBJID CustomRace_Description_Text
Debug Message: CustomRaceWnd: Cannot find OBJID CustomRace_Tab_Homeworld
Debug Message: Creating Civs
Debug Message: Drengin Empire: Intellence -> 50
Debug Message: Altarian Republic: Intellence -> 70
Debug Message: Creating Civs... Done
Debug Message: Updating ZOC.
Debug Message: Updating ZOC.
Debug Message: Galaxy Create... Done
Debug Message: UIBeginGame called with g_ulLocalPlayerID = 0
Debug Message: setting size 16 x 0
Debug Message: setting size 16 x 0
Debug Message: setting size 16 x 0
Debug Message: Drengin Empire (1): Researching: New Propulsion Techniques
Debug Message: Altarian Republic (2): Researching: New Propulsion Techniques
Debug Message: Pirates! (26): Researching: Galactic Warfare
Debug Message: Destroying ship Jafo. Orbiting: 0
Debug Message: Updating ZOC.
Debug Message: DomesticWnd: Cannot find OBJID Domestic_Government_Tab
Debug Message: DomesticWnd: Cannot find OBJID Domestic_Governor_Tab
Debug Message: DomesticWnd: Cannot find OBJID Domestic_Stats_Tab
Debug Message: DomesticWnd: Cannot find OBJID Domestic_Graphs_Tab
Debug Message: EconomicWnd: Cannot find OBJID Template_Button_Back
Debug Message: Drengin Empire (1): Researching: Xeno Research
Debug Message: Altarian Republic (2): Researching: Xeno Research
Debug Message: OptionsWnd: Quit Btn
Debug Message: Posting WM_CLOSE message.
Debug Message: WM_CLOSE message received.
Debug Message: GameUninitialize start
Debug Message: Killing Galaxy
Debug Message: Killing threads.
Debug Message: Kiling civs.
Debug Message: Killing ships.
Debug Message: Killing rallypoints.
Debug Message: Killing misc objects.
Debug Message: Killing stars.
Debug Message: Killing anomalies.
Debug Message: Killing space resources.
Debug Message: Killing colonies and planets.
Debug Message: killing scenario.
Debug Message: Clear galaxy settings.
Debug Message: Clear influence.
Debug Message: Clear up laws.
Debug Message: Clear first time events.
Debug Message: Clear wonders and trade goods.
Debug Message: Clear sector mapper.
Debug Message: Clear data definitions.
Debug Message: Killing Galaxy: Completed
Debug Message: GameUninitialize end
Debug Message: Device not cleared. 4 counts left.
Debug Message: D3D not cleared. 1 counts left.
Debug Message: Destroying Window.
Debug Message: Main Shell terminating normally

Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

Successfully updated karma reason!

I'm getting a black screen at launch. The problem (and my log file) are virtually identical to the first post in this thread, but I haven't seen an answer yet. My drivers are current for both my nVidia card and my SB Audigy 2. I tried launching the game using a lower screen resolution (1024x768) and that didn't help, either. Any other ideas? I really want to play!

Thanks!

Debug Message: Version v1.0D-1 Digital: Bonus Pack last updated on: Fri Feb 24 12:35:33 2006
Debug Message: Could not find a TGN Serial No.
Debug Message: *********DXDiag info follows.*********
System Info
Time: 3/2/2006, 07:37:47
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: KASHYYYK
Operating System: Windows XP Professional (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 2 (2600.xpsp_sp2_gdr.050301-1519)
Languages: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: INTEL_
System Model: D845PESV
BIOS: BIOS Date: 03/17/03 19:20:24 Ver: 08.00.07
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 2.66GHz
Physical Memory: 510MB RAM
Page File: 224MB used, 1022MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS

Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: NVIDIA GeForce4 Ti 4400
Manufacturer: NVIDIA
Chip Type: GeForce4 Ti 4400
DAC Type: Integrated RAMDAC
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_10DE&DEV_0251&SUBSYS_013110DE&REV_A3
Display Memory: 128.0 MB
Current Display Mode: 1024 x 768 (32 bit) (75Hz)
Monitor Name: NEC LCD1765
Monitor Max Resolution: 1280,1024
Driver Name: nv4_disp.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.8198
Driver Date: 12/10/2005 03:06:00
DirectX Acceleration Enabled: Yes

Sound info
Sound device 1:
Description: SB Audigy 2 Audio [D880]
Default Sound Playback: Yes
Default Voice Playback: Yes
Hardware ID: PCI\VEN_1102&DEV_0004&SUBSYS_10021102&REV_04
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: ctaud2k.sys
Provider: Creative
Driver Version: 5.12.0001.1164
Driver Date: 12/8/2005 11:55:46
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 3
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0

Debug Message: *********END dxdiag info.*********
Debug Message: Entering WinMain
Debug Message: ******* Starting Game Shell *******
Debug Message: Going Fullscreen
Debug Message: Preparing to change display settings.
Debug Message: Multisample Type chosen in prefs not supported. Forcing a supported type.
Debug Message: Using multilsample setting: D3DMULTISAMPLE_NONMASKABLE
Debug Message: Could not create the render device using default format. Switching to 16bit
Debug Message: Using multilsample setting: D3DMULTISAMPLE_NONE
Debug Message: Could not create the render device.
Debug Message: InitializeDirect3D Failed.
Debug Message: Now Fullscreen
Debug Message: Shell initialization complete
Debug Message: WM_CLOSE message received.
Debug Message: GameUninitialize start

Successfully updated karma reason!

I'm a bit frustrated, but I suspect one of the experts will be able to help me. Debugt file shown below. The essence seems to be that it can't create the render device. My sound drivers are old but I can't imagine that is causing problems with the display renderer.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Jason

------------------------

Debug Message: Version v1.0D-1 Digital: Bonus Pack last updated on: Fri Feb 24 12:35:33 2006
Debug Message: Could not find a TGN Serial No.
Debug Message: *********DXDiag info follows.*********
System Info
Time: 3/3/2006, 21:12:20
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: HANSION
Operating System: Windows XP Professional (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 2 (2600.xpsp_sp2_gdr.050301-1519)
Languages: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: VIA TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
System Model: P4X400-8235
BIOS: )Phoenix - Award WorkstationBIOS v6.00PG
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 2.40GHz
Physical Memory: 1024MB RAM
Page File: 236MB used, 2225MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS

Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: RADEON 9500 PRO / 9700
Manufacturer: ATI Technologies Inc.
Chip Type: RADEON 9500 PRO AGP (0x4E45)
DAC Type: Internal DAC(400MHz)
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4E45&SUBSYS_00021002&REV_00
Display Memory: 128.0 MB
Current Display Mode: 1280 x 1024 (32 bit) (85Hz)
Monitor Name: Hitachi CM751
Monitor Max Resolution: 1600,1200
Driver Name: ati2dvag.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.6599
Driver Date: 1/24/2006 22:52:48
DirectX Acceleration Enabled: Yes

Sound info
Sound device 1:
Description: SB Live! Audio [A000]
Default Sound Playback: Yes
Default Voice Playback: Yes
Hardware ID: PCI\VEN_1102&DEV_0002&SUBSYS_80651102&REV_0A
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: ctaud2k.sys
Provider: Creative
Driver Version: 5.12.0001.0252
Driver Date: 7/19/2002 10:47:52
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 3
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0

Debug Message: *********END dxdiag info.*********
Debug Message: Entering WinMain
Debug Message: ******* Starting Game Shell *******
Debug Message: Going Fullscreen
Debug Message: Preparing to change display settings.
Debug Message: Using multilsample setting: D3DMULTISAMPLE_4_SAMPLES
Debug Message: Could not create the render device using default format. Switching to 16bit
Debug Message: Using multilsample setting: D3DMULTISAMPLE_NONE
Debug Message: Could not create the render device.
Debug Message: InitializeDirect3D Failed.
Debug Message: Now Fullscreen
Debug Message: Shell initialization complete
Debug Message: WM_CLOSE message received.
Debug Message: GameUninitialize start

Successfully updated karma reason!

This is jwh2f again. It looks like the problem was that GCII could not change my screen resolution. SO, I changed it manually and set the video settings to 1280x1024 in the game. Now it seems to run OK (thought I haven't actually played it yet

)

Please ignore my post above.

Regards
Jason

Successfully updated karma reason!

First time booting up, I'm told that my video drivers are too old to play, but I figured I'd give it a shot. I'm running a Pentium 4 Toshiba laptop 2.0 Ghz, 1 Gig Ram, nVidia GeForce 460 Go 32 MB video ram Direct X 9.0 C. I appear to meet min specs according to the box.
I'm one of the ones that had the famous black terrain bug with Civ4 that was fixed with the 1.52 patch (but still have the stuttering sound during movies).

CG2 boots fine and I can pick a race and "start the game" but I get the screen telling me a hint and it says loading.....and then the game hangs. I ctrl-alt-del out and after ending the program, my PC is fine.

I could never successfully upgrade my nVidia drivers past 3.6.3.9 (year 2002) as WIndows, Toshiba and nVidia don't find a higher match. Following recommendations here, I went to OmegaDrivers.net (I think that's the name and d'l'd 6.6.9.3 and successfully changed my driver. Only now Civ4 won't boot at all and although I can play a game of GC2, only the top left 25% of screen is shown in washed out colors (and I can't scroll the screen to see more)

After finally being able to panickly reinstall my original drivers (the Omega deletion took out my originals too), I'm back to playing Civ4 and GC2 is back to original broken state again. No amount of changing drivers ever helped Civ4 for me, only a software patch.

Here's the debug...
Debug Message: Version v1.0 last updated on: Mon Feb 6 12:52:05 2006
Debug Message: Could not find a TGN Serial No.
Debug Message: *********DXDiag info follows.*********
System Info
Time: 3/3/2006, 22:39:25
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: RICHARD
Operating System: Windows XP Home Edition (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 2 (2600.xpsp_sp2_gdr.050301-1519)
Languages: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: TOSHIBA
System Model: Satellite 5205
BIOS: v1.20
Processor: Mobile Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 - M CPU 2.00GHz
Physical Memory: 1024MB RAM
Page File: 349MB used, 1344MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS

Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: NVIDIA GeForce4 460 Go (Toshiba)
Manufacturer: NVIDIA
Chip Type: GeForce4 460 Go
DAC Type: Integrated RAMDAC
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_10DE&DEV_0177&SUBSYS_00011179&REV_A3
Display Memory: 32.0 MB
Current Display Mode: 1400 x 1050 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor Name: Default Monitor
Monitor Max Resolution:
Driver Name: nv4_disp.dll
Driver Version: 6.13.0010.3639
Driver Date: 8/15/2002 13:14:00
DirectX Acceleration Enabled: Yes

Sound info
Sound device 1:
Description: YAMAHA AC-XG WDM Audio
Default Sound Playback: Yes
Default Voice Playback: Yes
Hardware ID: PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_2485&SUBSYS_00021179&REV_02
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: yacxgc.sys
Provider: YAMAHA CORPORATION
Driver Version: 6.13.0010.3152
Driver Date: 7/24/2002 18:42:34
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 3
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0

Debug Message: *********END dxdiag info.*********
Debug Message: Entering WinMain
Debug Message: ******* Starting Game Shell *******
Debug Message: Preparing to change display settings.
Debug Message: Using multilsample setting: D3DMULTISAMPLE_NONMASKABLE
Debug Message: Game Resolution: 1024 x 768
Debug Message: Running in windowed mode.
Debug Message: HAL (sw vp): NVIDIA GeForce4 460 Go (Toshiba)
Debug Message: D3DPRESENT_INTERVAL_IMMEDIATE
Debug Message: Refresh rate: 0
Debug Message: Bit Depth: 32 bit.
Debug Message: *********Checking D3DDevice Caps***********************
Debug Message: A full-color cursor is supported in hardware at high resolution modes.
Debug Message: Border size reported as 6 by 32
Debug Message: RGB in format 6:6:6, Masks reported as ff0000:ff00:ff
Debug Message: Now windowed.
Debug Message: Shell initialization complete
Debug Message: ***** Initializing Game *****
Debug Message: Timer Frequency is 0 369e99
Debug Message: Initializing sound card.
Debug Message: initailizing bink
Debug Message: Create setup screens.
Debug Message: Clear galaxy settings.
Debug Message: Clear influence.
Debug Message: Clear up laws.
Debug Message: Clear first time events.
Debug Message: Clear wonders and trade goods.
Debug Message: Clear sector mapper.
Debug Message: Set mouse.
Debug Message: Set update timer.
Debug Message: Clear data definitions.
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Richard\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\*.StarSystems
*DEBUG ERROR: ***Unable to find required tech ImpossibleTech for PirateShip. ***
*DEBUG ERROR: ***Unable to find required tech ImpossibleTech for Starbase. ***
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Richard\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.shipclass
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Richard\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.shipcfg
Debug Message: Reading Star Names
Debug Message: Reading Star Names... Done
Debug Message: No custom map selected. Setting random galaxy size.
Debug Message: CustomRaceWnd: Cannot find OBJID CustomRace_Description_Text
Debug Message: CustomRaceWnd: Cannot find OBJID CustomRace_Tab_Homeworld
Debug Message: Creating Galaxy
Debug Message: Set galaxy size.
Debug Message: Killing threads.
Debug Message: Kiling civs.
Debug Message: Killing ships.
Debug Message: Killing rallypoints.
Debug Message: Killing misc objects.
Debug Message: Killing stars.
Debug Message: Killing anomalies.
Debug Message: Killing space resources.
Debug Message: Killing colonies and planets.
Debug Message: killing scenario.
Debug Message: Clear galaxy settings.
Debug Message: Clear influence.
Debug Message: Clear up laws.
Debug Message: Clear first time events.
Debug Message: Clear wonders and trade goods.
Debug Message: Clear sector mapper.
Debug Message: Creating Random Map
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Stars
Debug Message: Number of Unplaced Stars: 28.
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Planets
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Anomalies
Debug Message: Num Anomalies: 118
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Resources
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Done
Debug Message: Creating Civs
Debug Message: Terran Alliance: Intellence -> 30
Debug Message: Altarian Republic: Intellence -> 30
Debug Message: Torian Confederation: Intellence -> 30
Debug Message: Dominion of Korx: Intellence -> 30
Debug Message: Thalan Empire: Intellence -> 30
Debug Message: Iconian Refuge: Intellence -> 50
Debug Message: Creating Civs... Done
Debug Message: Updating ZOC.
Debug Message: Updating ZOC.
Debug Message: Galaxy Create... Done
Debug Message: UIBeginGame called with g_ulLocalPlayerID = 10
Debug Message: setting size 16 x 0
Debug Message: setting size 16 x 0
Debug Message: setting size 16 x 0
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: Driver internal error
Debug Message: First contact: Jessuins II at position 7150.000000,8150.000000 rotation 0.000000
Debug Message: First contact: Jessuins II at position 7150.000000,8150.000000 rotation 0.000000
Debug Message: First contact: Jessuins II at position 7150.000000,8150.000000 rotation 0.000000
Debug Message: First contact: Jessuins II at position 7150.000000,8150.000000 rotation 0.000000
Debug Message: First contact: Jessuins II at position 7150.000000,8150.000000 rotation 0.000000
Debug Message: First contact: Jessuins II at position 7150.000000,8150.000000 rotation 0.000000
Debug Message: First contact: Jessuins II at position 7150.000000,8150.000000 rotation 0.000000
Debug Message: First contact: Jessuins II at position 7150.000000,8150.000000 rotation 0.000000
Debug Message: First contact: Jessuins II at position 7150.000000,8150.000000 rotation 0.000000
Debug Message: First contact: Jessuins II at position 7150.000000,8150.000000 rotation 0.000000
Debug Message: First contact: Jessuins II at position 7150.000000,8150.000000 rotation 0.000000
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: Driver internal error
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: Driver internal error
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: Driver internal error
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: Driver internal error
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: Driver internal error
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: Driver internal error
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: Driver internal error
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: Driver internal error
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
.
.
.
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: Driver internal error
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: Driver internal error
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: Driver internal error
Debug Message: WM_CLOSE message received.
Debug Message: GameUninitialize start
Debug Message: Killing Galaxy
Debug Message: Killing threads.
Debug Message: Kiling civs.
Debug Message: Killing ships.
Debug Message: Killing rallypoints.
Debug Message: Killing misc objects.
Debug Message: Killing stars.
Debug Message: Killing anomalies.
Debug Message: Killing space resources.
Debug Message: Killing colonies and planets.
Debug Message: killing scenario.
Debug Message: Clear galaxy settings.
Debug Message: Clear influence.
Debug Message: Clear up laws.
Debug Message: Clear first time events.
Debug Message: Clear wonders and trade goods.
Debug Message: Clear sector mapper.
Debug Message: Clear data definitions.
Debug Message: Killing Galaxy: Completed
Debug Message: GameUninitialize end
Debug Message: Device not cleared. 1 counts left.
Debug Message: D3D not cleared. 1 counts left.
Debug Message: Destroying Window.
Debug Message: Main Shell terminating normally

Successfully updated karma reason!

Well, I sent an email to tech support over a week ago and got no response. I couldnt signup on the forums, it kept reporting an error, until i realized the _ in my email address was apparently too much to handle so i had to open a new one. Long story short, i read all the posts, changed to 32 bit color, 1024x768 etc. and the game still doesnt work. It opens to the intro and then shuts off, presumably right before the main menu screen. I also read about needing up to date drivers, i tried to do this as much as i could, but im not exactly sure which drivers i may need. I have directx 9.0c. Here is the debug info.

Debug Message: Version v1.0 last updated on: Mon Feb 6 12:52:05 2006
Debug Message: Could not find a TGN Serial No.
Debug Message: *********DXDiag info follows.*********
System Info
Time: 2/27/2006, 13:39:44
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: NevermindThat
Operating System: Windows XP Home Edition (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 1 (2600.xpsp2.030422-1633)
Languages: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: HP Pavilion 04
System Model: P6324A-ABA 750C
BIOS: Award Medallion BIOS v6.0
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 1.80GHz, ~1.8GHz
Physical Memory: 512MB RAM
Page File: 202MB used, 1045MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS

Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: NVIDIA RIVA TNT2 Model 64 (HP)
Manufacturer: NVIDIA
Chip Type: RIVA TNT2 Model 64
DAC Type: Integrated RAMDAC
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_10DE&DEV_002D&SUBSYS_02391043&REV_15
Display Memory: 32.0 MB
Current Display Mode: 800 x 600 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor Name: hp pavilion mx75
Monitor Max Resolution: 1280,1024
Driver Name: nv4_disp.dll
Driver Version: 5.13.0001.1570
Driver Date: 9/27/2001 19:49:00
DirectX Acceleration Enabled: Yes

Sound info
Sound device 1:
Description: SoundMAX Digital Audio
Default Sound Playback: Yes
Default Voice Playback: Yes
Hardware ID: PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_2445&SUBSYS_806A1043&REV_05
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: smwdm.sys
Provider: Analog Devices
Driver Version: 5.12.0001.3035
Driver Date: 9/24/2001 10:27:18
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 3
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0

Debug Message: *********END dxdiag info.*********
Debug Message: Entering WinMain
Debug Message: ******* Starting Game Shell *******
Debug Message: Going Fullscreen
Debug Message: Preparing to change display settings.
Debug Message: Multisample Type chosen in prefs not supported. Forcing a supported type.
Debug Message: Using multilsample setting: D3DMULTISAMPLE_NONE
Debug Message: Game Resolution: 1024 x 768
Debug Message: Running fullscreen.
Debug Message: HAL (sw vp): NVIDIA RIVA TNT2 Model 64 (HP)
Debug Message: D3DPRESENT_INTERVAL_DEFAULT
Debug Message: Refresh rate: 60
Debug Message: Bit Depth: 32 bit.
Debug Message: *********Checking D3DDevice Caps***********************
Debug Message: Hardware does not support a color cursor.
Debug Message: RGB in format 6:6:6, Masks reported as ff0000:ff00:ff
Debug Message: Now Fullscreen
Debug Message: Shell initialization complete
Debug Message: ***** Initializing Game *****
Debug Message: Timer Frequency is 0 369e99
Debug Message: Initializing sound card.
Debug Message: initailizing bink
Debug Message: Create setup screens.
Debug Message: Clear galaxy settings.
Debug Message: Clear influence.
Debug Message: Clear up laws.
Debug Message: Clear first time events.
Debug Message: Clear wonders and trade goods.
Debug Message: Clear sector mapper.
Debug Message: Set mouse.
Debug Message: Set update timer.
Debug Message: Clear data definitions.
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Owner\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\*.StarSystems

Successfully updated karma reason!

Hi SamadhiFive, I can't get the game to run for more than about 15 mins before it crashes and auto reboots my system, so I understand your frustration. However, I did notice that your drivers are really old (dated 9/27/2001 19:49:00). Have you tried getting updated drivers for your video card yet? GalCic2 apparently needs recent drivers to run. No guarantee that will work, but that's what I noticed about your system from reading the error log.

Successfully updated karma reason!

AHA!!!!!
Well I disabled everything, turned off anti-aliasing and dropped my resolution to the lowest 1024x768 and was able to load a Tiny universe with three races. The colors are a little bland but the game starts.
I think it was the anti-aliasing or the resolution.
More tests are on the way.

Successfully updated karma reason!

AHA!!!!!
Well I disabled everything, turned off anti-aliasing and dropped my resolution to the lowest 1024x768 and was able to load a Tiny universe with three races. The colors are a little bland but the game starts. I haven't made it far yet until I can maximize performance.
I think it was the anti-aliasing or the resolution.
More tests are on the way.
So there is hope for those of us with old drivers.

Successfully updated karma reason!

Sorry, somehow I triple posted.

My work around was using 1.0X.

Successfully updated karma reason!

When I try to start the game the screen turns partly black and then freezes. Here is the debug.err file:

--------------------

Debug Message: Version v1.0X last updated on: Fri Mar 3 17:16:22 2006
Debug Message: Could not find a TGN Serial No.
Debug Message: *********DXDiag info follows.*********
System Info
Time: 3/5/2006, 20:54:14
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: AXXXXXXX
Operating System: Windows XP Home Edition (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 1 (2600.xpsp1.020828-1920)
Languages: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: Dell Inc.
System Model: Dimension 8400
BIOS: Phoenix ROM BIOS PLUS Version 1.10 A02
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 3.00GHz (2 CPUs), ~3.0GHz
Physical Memory: 1022MB RAM
Page File: 263MB used, 2197MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS

Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: RADEON X800GT
Manufacturer: ATI Technologies Inc.
Chip Type: RADEON X800 GT (0x554B)
DAC Type: Internal DAC(400MHz)
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_554B&SUBSYS_03021002&REV_00
Display Memory: 128.0 MB
Current Display Mode: 1280 x 960 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor Name: Plug and Play Monitor
Monitor Max Resolution: 1600,1200
Driver Name: ati2dvag.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.6599
Driver Date: 1/24/2006 22:52:48
DirectX Acceleration Enabled: Yes

Sound info
Sound device 1:
Description: Envy24 Family Audio (WDM)
Default Sound Playback: Yes
Default Voice Playback: Yes
Hardware ID: PCI\VEN_1412&DEV_1724&SUBSYS_170514C3&REV_01
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: Envy24HF.sys
Provider: VIA - IC Ensemble, Inc.
Driver Version: 5.12.0001.3644
Driver Date: 11/25/2004 21:55:18
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 3
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0

Sound device 1:
Description: ReplayRadio driver playback (emulated)
Default Sound Playback: No
Default Voice Playback: No
Hardware ID:
Manufacturer ID: 0
Product ID: 0
Driver Name:
Provider:
Driver Version:
Driver Date:
Type: Emulated
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 3
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0

Sound device 1:
Description: SoundMAX Digital Audio
Default Sound Playback: No
Default Voice Playback: No
Hardware ID: PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_266E&SUBSYS_01771028&REV_03
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: smwdm.sys
Provider: Analog Devices
Driver Version: 5.12.0001.4060
Driver Date: 4/9/2004 12:41:30
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 3
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0

Debug Message: *********END dxdiag info.*********
Debug Message: Entering WinMain
Debug Message: ******* Starting Game Shell *******
Debug Message: Going Fullscreen
Debug Message: Preparing to change display settings.
Debug Message: Using multilsample setting: D3DMULTISAMPLE_4_SAMPLES
Debug Message: Could not create the render device using default format. Switching to 16bit
Debug Message: Using multilsample setting: D3DMULTISAMPLE_NONE
Debug Message: Could not create the render device.
Debug Message: InitializeDirect3D Failed.
Debug Message: Now Fullscreen
Debug Message: Shell initialization complete
Debug Message: WM_CLOSE message received.
Debug Message: GameUninitialize start

--------------------------------

Now here's the catch. I started the game once successfully, then changed the game resolution from 1024x768 to 1280x800. It prompted me to restart the game, at which point my problems began. This makes me think that maybe it is having trouble changing my screen resolution. Its possible that I could successfully start the game if I changed my desktop resolution to the same as the resolution of the game itself, but 1280x800 is not one of my resolution options.

Is there a way to change display settings without launching the game? Any other thoughts on what the problem might be?

Successfully updated karma reason!

I can't even get this game started. It installs OK, but when I choose "Play Game" from the initial menu I get an error:

The instruction at "0x7c911c48" referenced memory at "0xfefffff8". The memory could not be "read".

There are slight variations of this each time - sometimes the references change slightly, and sometimes they cannot be "written" instead of "read". Then it just sends me back to the Desktop.

I run WinXP and have all the latest drivers and DirectX.

Can anyone help? Here is my debug err.file:

Debug Message: Version v1.0 last updated on: Mon Feb 6 12:52:05 2006
Debug Message: Could not find a TGN Serial No.
Debug Message: *********DXDiag info follows.*********
System Info
Time: 3/6/2006, 16:29:17
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: XXXXXXX
Operating System: Windows XP Professional (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 2 (2600.xpsp_sp2_gdr.050301-1519)
Languages: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: System manufacturer
System Model: System Product Name
BIOS: Phoenix - Award BIOS v6.00PG
Processor: AMD Athlon(tm) 64 Processor 3000+, MMX, 3DNow, ~1.8GHz
Physical Memory: 1024MB RAM
Page File: 279MB used, 2181MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS

Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: RADEON X800 Series
Manufacturer: ATI Technologies Inc.
Chip Type: ATI RADEON X800 XL (0x554D)
DAC Type: Internal DAC(400MHz)
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_554D&SUBSYS_0740174B&REV_00
Display Memory: 512.0 MB
Current Display Mode: 1280 x 1024 (16 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor Name: Plug and Play Monitor
Monitor Max Resolution: 1600,1200
Driver Name: ati2dvag.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.6599
Driver Date: 1/25/2006 03:52:48
DirectX Acceleration Enabled: Yes

Sound info
Sound device 1:
Description: Sound Blaster Live! 24-bit
Default Sound Playback: Yes
Default Voice Playback: Yes
Hardware ID: PCI\VEN_1102&DEV_0007&SUBSYS_10061102&REV_00
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: P17.sys
Provider: Creative Technology Ltd.
Driver Version: 5.12.0001.0314
Driver Date: 6/4/2004 08:27:46
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 3
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0

Debug Message: *********END dxdiag info.*********
Debug Message: Entering WinMain
Debug Message: ******* Starting Game Shell *******
Debug Message: Going Fullscreen
Debug Message: Preparing to change display settings.
Debug Message: Using multilsample setting: D3DMULTISAMPLE_4_SAMPLES
Debug Message: Game Resolution: 1024 x 768
Debug Message: Running fullscreen.
Debug Message: HAL (hw vp): RADEON X800 Series
Debug Message: D3DPRESENT_INTERVAL_DEFAULT
Debug Message: Refresh rate: 60
Debug Message: Bit Depth: 16 bit.
Debug Message: *********Checking D3DDevice Caps***********************
Debug Message: A full-color cursor is supported in hardware at high resolution modes.
Debug Message: RGB in format 5:6:5, Masks reported as f800:7e0:1f
Debug Message: Now Fullscreen
Debug Message: Shell initialization complete
Debug Message: ***** Initializing Game *****
Debug Message: Timer Frequency is 0 369e99
Debug Message: Initializing sound card.
Debug Message: initailizing bink
Debug Message: Create setup screens.
Debug Message: Clear galaxy settings.
Debug Message: Clear influence.
Debug Message: Clear up laws.
Debug Message: Clear first time events.
Debug Message: Clear wonders and trade goods.
Debug Message: Clear sector mapper.
Debug Message: Set mouse.
Debug Message: Set update timer.

Successfully updated karma reason!

Frogboy:

Here's a report I saw:

Game wouldn't load for them:

This was their debug.err

I have a problem when launching the game. I get a dark screen and the game won't initialize. I checked stickied posts and all my drivers are up to date, but it didn't help

Here is the debug.err log

Debug Message: Version v1.0 Digital: Bonus Pack last updated on: Mon Feb 20 19:04:13 2006
Debug Message: Could not find a TGN Serial No.
Debug Message: *********DXDiag info follows.*********
System Info
Time: 2/21/2006, 20:04:17
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: JJ
Operating System: Windows XP Home Edition (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 2 (2600.xpsp_sp2_gdr.050301-1519)
Languages: French (Regional Setting: French)
System Manufacturer: NVIDIA
System Model: AWRDACPI
BIOS: Phoenix - AwardBIOS v6.00PG
Processor: AMD Athlon(tm) XP 3200+, MMX, 3DNow, ~2.2GHz
Physical Memory: 1024MB RAM
Page File: 250MB used, 2209MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS

Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: NVIDIA GeForce 6600 GT
Manufacturer: NVIDIA
Chip Type: GeForce 6600 GT
DAC Type: Integrated RAMDAC
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_10DE&DEV_00F1&SUBSYS_00&REV_A2
Display Memory: 128.0 MB
Current Display Mode: 1280 x 960 (32 bit) (85Hz)
Monitor Name: Iiyama HM703UT, VisionMaster Pro 413
Monitor Max Resolution: 1600,1200
Driver Name: nv4_disp.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.8198
Driver Date: 12/10/2005 03:06:00
DirectX Acceleration Enabled: Yes

Sound info
Sound device 1:
Description: SB Audigy 2 ZS Audio [C000]
Default Sound Playback: Yes
Default Voice Playback: Yes
Hardware ID: PCI\VEN_1102&DEV_0004&SUBSYS_20021102&REV_04
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: ctaud2k.sys
Provider: Creative
Driver Version: 5.12.0001.0444
Driver Date: 10/18/2004 14:21:24
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 3
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0

Debug Message: *********END dxdiag info.*********
Debug Message: Entering WinMain
Debug Message: ******* Starting Game Shell *******
Debug Message: Going Fullscreen
Debug Message: Preparing to change display settings.
Debug Message: Using multilsample setting: D3DMULTISAMPLE_4_SAMPLES
Debug Message: Could not create the render device using default format. Switching to 16bit
Debug Message: Using multilsample setting: D3DMULTISAMPLE_NONE
Debug Message: Could not create the render device.
Debug Message: InitializeDirect3D Failed.
Debug Message: Now Fullscreen
Debug Message: Shell initialization complete
Debug Message: WM_CLOSE message received.
Debug Message: GameUninitialize start

You did not state how to fix the problem identified with this sample debug. This is basically my problem also. I have contacted support but nobody has got back to me. I have updated my drivers, I am running in 32 bit mode, Windows in English and I still have not had a chance to play after buying the game a week ago.

Successfully updated karma reason!

Hi Frogboy:

Here is my debug.err file. Basically the same as your example. It fails at the multisample setting, can not create render device.

Debug Message: Version v1.0D-1 Digital: Bonus Pack last updated on: Fri Feb 24 12:35:33 2006
Debug Message: Could not find a TGN Serial No.
Debug Message: *********DXDiag info follows.*********
System Info
Time: 3/5/2006, 23:06:42
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: SILVER
Operating System: Windows XP Home Edition (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 2 (2600.xpsp_sp2_gdr.050301-1519)
Languages: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: Dell Computer Corporation
System Model: Dimension 8200
BIOS: Default System BIOS
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 1.80GHz
Physical Memory: 512MB RAM
Page File: 332MB used, 1686MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS

Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: NVIDIA GeForce2 MX/MX 400
Manufacturer: NVIDIA
Chip Type: GeForce2 MX/MX 400
DAC Type: Integrated RAMDAC
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_10DE&DEV_0110&SUBSYS_010F10DE&REV_B2
Display Memory: 64.0 MB
Current Display Mode: 1024 x 768 (32 bit) (75Hz)
Monitor Name: Dell D1626HT
Monitor Max Resolution: 1600,1200
Driver Name: nv4_disp.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.8198
Driver Date: 12/10/2005 03:06:00
DirectX Acceleration Enabled: Yes

Sound info
Sound device 1:
Description: Santa Cruz(tm)
Default Sound Playback: Yes
Default Voice Playback: Yes
Hardware ID: TURTLE_BEACH\SANTA_CRUZ_WDM_INTERFACE
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: tbcwdm.sys
Provider: Voyetra Turtle Beach
Driver Version: 5.12.0001.4112
Driver Date: 8/29/2001 14:19:44
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 3
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0

Debug Message: *********END dxdiag info.*********
Debug Message: Entering WinMain
Debug Message: ******* Starting Game Shell *******
Debug Message: Going Fullscreen
Debug Message: Preparing to change display settings.
Debug Message: Multisample Type chosen in prefs not supported. Forcing a supported type.
Debug Message: Using multilsample setting: D3DMULTISAMPLE_NONMASKABLE
Debug Message: Could not create the render device using default format. Switching to 16bit
Debug Message: Using multilsample setting: D3DMULTISAMPLE_NONE
Debug Message: Could not create the render device.
Debug Message: InitializeDirect3D Failed.
Debug Message: Now Fullscreen
Debug Message: Shell initialization complete
Debug Message: WM_CLOSE message received.
Debug Message: GameUninitialize start

Successfully updated karma reason!

I have gotten the game to work on and off since the first flawless time,, but still only initializaes 1/20 attempts, often with many restarts in between. I definitely think the problem is resolution related. That is, I think the game is waaaay to finicky about what what resolution it wants to start in, and has trouble automatically switching between resolutions, after which it gives up. Or something like that. Yes I'm running the latest version, the debug.err looks exactly the same as before, and I am running all the recommended settings (32bit, 1024x768 -or- 1280x1024). Do you have any ideas or suggestions?

PS. AThimND: you can change almost all major settings by opening, editing, and saving the prefs.ini files using Notepad, should be in your "My Documents/My Games/GalCiv2/" folder. Note however, that having learned the ins-and-outs of this file, and much experimentation, my version still is a big fat baby about resolutions, no matter what I try, and this problem has not been resolved by Stardock. SOMETIMES (very rarely), I can get the game to start by deleting the prefs.ini file altogether, forcing the program to start from scratch on the next execute. You might try this, but don't let it fool you into thinking the problem is solved if it works, cause it certainly wasn't for me.

Successfully updated karma reason!

Racerx285, Thanks to your advice, I solved the problem on my system. I had an old data folder in My Documents, which I had copied over when I installed this new machine, and it had a higher resolution from an earlier machine on which it was installed. Editing pref.ini to my new machine's screen resolution solved it! Thank You!

Successfully updated karma reason!

STICKY: Getting the game running!

Questions? Problems? We're here!