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STICKY: Getting the game running!

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STICKY: Getting the game running!

Questions? Problems? We're here!

from GalCiv2 Forums

If you run into same basic problem such as:

a) Game doesn't load

b) Game causes your computer to catch fire

c) Game formats the hard drives of your neighbor's computer even though it's not connected to the net.

d) Some other basic problem that is keeping the game from running for you.

Then post here.

WE NEED:

1) Your debug.err info (which is located in your GalCiv II directory)

2) Any other info you think is pertinent (such as what you were doing)

ALSO:

MOST COMMON REASONS:

a) You're running your desktop in 16-bit color

or

b) You have ancient video drivers.

35,967 views 95 replies
Reply #27 from Stardock Forums Top
I had the same exact problem as Sean London, again due to it being 16 bit on the desktop. This seems very strange to me, as I always set my desktop resolution to 32 bit. I did notice an odd degredation in color quality a while back while I was trying the beta out - is it possible the beta changed my desktop color res to 16 bit? Sounds a bit far-fetched, but who knows why that'd happen...
ObjectDock - Access shortcuts and frequently used applications from an animated dock.
Reply #28 from Stardock Forums Top
Exact same problem as Citizen AStott. However i was able to play the campaign when i first got the game. it somehow sopped working. i am able to load my previous samegame in that mission but i can't restart it - it crashes right after the intro or when i press a button to skip it.

debug.err:

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: Can't find galciv2 serial in registry subdirectory GalCiv2.
Debug Message: Can't find any serial numbers.
Debug Message: *********DXDiag info follows.*********
System Info
Time: 2/22/2006, 14:49:03
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: HERBERT-TRAVEL
Operating System: Windows XP Professional (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 2 (2600.xpsp_sp2_gdr.050301-1519)
Languages: German (Regional Setting: German)
System Manufacturer: Acer
System Model: TravelMate 800
BIOS: Rev 1.0 XXX
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) M processor 1700MHz
Physical Memory: 1022MB RAM
Page File: 262MB used, 1176MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS


Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: MOBILITY RADEON 9000
Manufacturer: ATI Technologies Inc.
Chip Type: MOBILITY RADEON 9000 AGP (0x4C66)
DAC Type: Internal DAC(350MHz)
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4C66&SUBSYS_001F1025&REV_02
Display Memory: 64.0 MB
Current Display Mode: 1024 x 768 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor Name: (Standardmonitor)
Monitor Max Resolution:
Driver Name: ati2dvag.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.6387
Driver Date: 9/23/2003 14:56:38
DirectX Acceleration Enabled: Yes



Sound info
Sound device 1:
Description: Realtek AC97 Audio
Default Sound Playback: Yes
Default Voice Playback: Yes
Hardware ID: PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_24C5&SUBSYS_001F1025&REV_03
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: ALCXWDM.SYS
Provider: Realtek Semiconductor Corp.
Driver Version: 5.10.0000.4080
Driver Date: 11/27/2002 14:46:28
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): MOBILITY RADEON 9000
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:\Dokumente und Einstellungen\Herbert\Eigene Dateien\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: 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: ResearchWnd: Cannot find OBJID Research_Screen_Back


Also i am a little confused why it says it can't find a galciv2 serial anywhere... i have the download version which i got with my old tgn subscrition once.
Reply #29 from Stardock Forums Top
I can't get it to load.

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: 2/22/2006, 22:38:33
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: BRIAN-A7CDCF70E
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: XPC___
System Model: SN25V10
BIOS: )Phoenix - Award WorkstationBIOS v6.00PG
Processor: AMD Athlon(tm) 64 X2 Dual Core Processor 4200+, MMX, 3DNow (2 CPUs), ~2.2GHz
Physical Memory: 2048MB RAM
Page File: 440MB used, 3501MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS


Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: NVIDIA GeForce 7800 GT
Manufacturer: NVIDIA
Chip Type: GeForce 7800 GT
DAC Type: Integrated RAMDAC
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_10DE&DEV_0092&SUBSYS_2051107D&REV_A1
Display Memory: 256.0 MB
Current Display Mode: 1920 x 1200 (32 bit) (52Hz)
Monitor Name: Samsung SyncMaster 240T(Digital)
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: Envy24 Family Audio (WDM)
Default Sound Playback: Yes
Default Voice Playback: Yes
Hardware ID: PCI\VEN_1412&DEV_1724&SUBSYS_50361297&REV_01
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: Envy24HF.sys
Provider: VIA - IC Ensemble, Inc.
Driver Version: 5.12.0001.3645
Driver Date: 9/5/2005 17:06:38
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
Reply #30 from Stardock Forums Top
Silentfury23:

Thanks! That worked like a charm. Hadn't even realized that would be a problem.
Reply #31 from Stardock Forums Top
Well, I am having a blast changing the name of my leader and the color of my ships, but that's as far as I have ever been able to get. As soon as I start a new game it crashes at the load screen. I tried using Smart Exception, but trying to email the log from that just gives me missing SCDzip error. I unistalled and reinstalled galciv2, made sure I had the most updated driver for my computer, even put more RAM in. This is the only game I've ever bought that my system met the requirements but just won't work. Galciv one was awesome and I've been really looking forward to this one, but I am getting so infuriated it's not even funny. Here's the debug.err log again. Any other guidance would be awesome.

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: 2/22/2006, 07:51:45
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: HOME-S05V3WB82Z
Operating System: Windows XP Home Edition (5.1, Build 2600) (2600.xpclient.010817-1148)
Languages: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: Compaq
System Model: Presario 900
BIOS: PhoenixBIOS 4.0 Release 6.0
Processor: Mobile AMD Athlon(tm) XP 1500+, ~1.3GHz
Physical Memory: 960MB RAM
Page File: 118MB used, 1287MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS


Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: RADEON IGP 320M
Manufacturer: ATI Technologies Inc.
Chip Type: ATI U1 (C6)
DAC Type: Internal DAC(350MHz)
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4336&SUBSYS_00B00E11&REV_00
Display Memory: 64.0 MB
Current Display Mode: 1024 x 768 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor Name: Default Monitor
Monitor Max Resolution:
Driver Name: ati2dvag.dll
Driver Version: 6.13.0010.6218
Driver Date: 11/7/2002 23:21:18
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_10B9&DEV_5451&SUBSYS_00B00E11&REV_02
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: smwdm.sys
Provider: Analog Devices
Driver Version: 5.12.0001.3507
Driver Date: 5/20/2002 15:10:16
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): RADEON IGP 320M
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\Brian\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\Brian\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.shipclass
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Brian\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.shipcfg
Debug Message: Reading Star Names
Debug Message: Reading Star Names... Done
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: 23.
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Planets
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Anomalies
Debug Message: Num Anomalies: 59
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Resources
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Done
Debug Message: Creating Civs
Debug Message: Drengin Empire: Intellence -> 30
Debug Message: Altarian Republic: Intellence -> 30
Debug Message: Arcean Empire: Intellence -> 30
Debug Message: Torian Confederation: Intellence -> 30
Debug Message: Yor Collective: Intellence -> 30
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
Reply #32 from Stardock Forums Top
Silentfury23, your problem is definitely because you need to install an updated video card driver. If you check your log there you'll see a line that says:
Driver Date: 11/7/2002 23:21:18

That's WAY old. Go out to www.ati.com and grab an updated driver. Make sure you uninstall your existing driver (from control panel => Add/Remove programs) before you install the new one.

I'm 99% certain that'll fix the problem for you.
Reply #34 from Stardock Forums Top
Silentfury and I have the same video card and behavior. I did find a slightly newer driver by searching the ATI website; but, their search engines did come up with it. I had to scour the site. I now have a 2003 driver; but, it made things worse for me. See the above posts. I've tried changing my regional settings to English, no change in behavior. I've not yet had the opportunity to play with the second video card (didn't even know there was a second one on this system.) I'll do that tonight after work.

--e
Reply #35 from Stardock Forums Top
Silentfury and I have the same video card and behavior. I did find a slightly newer driver by searching the ATI website; but, their search engines did not come up with it. I had to scour the site. I now have a 2003 driver; but, it made things worse for me. See the above posts. I've tried changing my regional settings to English, no change in behavior. I've not yet had the opportunity to play with the second video card (didn't even know there was a second one on this system.) I'll do that tonight after work.

--e
Reply #36 from Stardock Forums Top
As far as I can tell, you want to go to the Motherboards with ATI Graphics section in their driver downloads area. Grab the full package under the High Speed area and install that. It appears that it should work for the 320M IGP cards you guys have. It's definitely worth a shot.
Reply #37 from Stardock Forums Top
I'm having a similar problem. I've got a 2 year old laptop that I can't get the game past the "loading" screen before it crashes. The tutorials and the initial game setup interface work fine. My laptop is a pretty good one, Sony Viao GRV680 and I've got the latest video driver from the Sony Viao support page. Here is my debug file, please help!!

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: 2/22/2006, 11:42:15
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: MOTHRA
Operating System: Windows XP Home Edition (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 1 (2600.xpsp2.050301-1526)
Languages: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: Sony Corporation
System Model: PCG-GRV680(UC)
BIOS: PhoenixBIOS 4.0 Release 6.0.
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 2.60GHz, ~2.6GHz
Physical Memory: 510MB RAM
Page File: 141MB used, 1105MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS


Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: MOBILITY RADEON 9000
Manufacturer: ATI Technologies Inc.
Chip Type: MOBILITY RADEON 9000 AGP (0x4C66)
DAC Type: Internal DAC(350MHz)
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4C66&SUBSYS_813C104D&REV_01
Display Memory: 64.0 MB
Current Display Mode: 1280 x 1024 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor Name: Sony Notebook LCD (1280x1024)
Monitor Max Resolution: 1280,1024
Driver Name: ati2dvag.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.6382
Driver Date: 7/30/2003 21:03:54
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_813C104D&REV_02
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: yacxgc.sys
Provider: YAMAHA CORPORATION
Driver Version: 6.13.0010.3154
Driver Date: 9/19/2002 21:19:56
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_NONMASKABLE
Debug Message: Game Resolution: 1024 x 768
Debug Message: Running fullscreen.
Debug Message: HAL (hw vp): MOBILITY RADEON 9000
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\Michael\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\Michael\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.shipclass
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Michael\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.shipcfg
Debug Message: Reading Star Names
Debug Message: Reading Star Names... Done
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Michael\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\Dread Lords Campaign\*.sav
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Michael\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\Logos\*.sav
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Michael\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\Metaverse\*.sav
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Michael\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\Mods\*.sav
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Michael\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\Portraits\*.sav
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Michael\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.sav
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Michael\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\temp\*.sav
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: 4.
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Planets
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Anomalies
Debug Message: Num Anomalies: 10
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Resources
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Done
Reply #38 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
AStott, the problem with the most recent update you point to on the ATI site is that it doesn't acknowledge supporting our hardware. Other ATI cards are listed as supported but not the 320M or 340M. I have a backup of my OS partition, so I'll give it a try and hopefully not lose some hours restoring the OS.

I did try turning off my second sound device. Same behavior. The debug.err log is the same as those posted above by me except: (a) regional setting is English and (b) only one sound device block. I"ll let you know what happens with the newest ATI driver. Wish me luck.
Reply #39 from Stardock Forums Top
AStott, no such luck. The installers determine that they are inappropriate for my laptop and refuse to install. Same is true of the Mobile version of the driver you pointed to. Back to square one. Still not able to run the game. For those following this thread, here's the most recent debug.err.

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: 2/22/2006, 10:57:46
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: MOGI
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: FUJITSU
System Model: FPC03080AL
BIOS: PhoenixBIOS 4.0 Release 6.0
Processor: Mobile Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 - M CPU 2.20GHz
Physical Memory: 478MB RAM
Page File: 269MB used, 851MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS


Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: RADEON IGP 340M
Manufacturer: ATI Technologies Inc.
Chip Type: RS200M AGP (0x4337)
DAC Type: Internal DAC(350MHz)
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4337&SUBSYS_11A410CF&REV_00
Display Memory: 32.0 MB
Current Display Mode: 1024 x 768 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor Name: Default Monitor
Monitor Max Resolution:
Driver Name: ati2dvag.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.6375
Driver Date: 7/10/2003 21:52:08
DirectX Acceleration Enabled: Yes



Sound info
Sound device 1:
Description: SigmaTel Audio
Default Sound Playback: Yes
Default Voice Playback: Yes
Hardware ID: PCI\VEN_10B9&DEV_5451&SUBSYS_11C310CF&REV_02
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: STAC97.sys
Provider: SigmaTel
Driver Version: 5.10.3717.0000
Driver Date: 10/31/2002 23:04:04
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: Game Resolution: 1024 x 768
Debug Message: Running fullscreen.
Debug Message: HAL (hw vp): RADEON IGP 340M
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\Owner\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\Owner\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.shipclass
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Owner\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.shipcfg
Debug Message: Reading Star Names
Debug Message: Reading Star Names... Done
Reply #40 from Stardock Forums Top
Eric Wilde: Yeah, I noticed that. However, the GART driver package that's part of that full download DOES mention your specific card (the release notes for that are down in the low-bandwidth section). I'm not exactly sure what the GART stuff is, but since it's bundled with the full package I'll bet that it'll magically install all the right stuff for you if you do the full install.
Reply #41 from Stardock Forums Top
Whoops! Looks like you tried it already. Hmmm...

Well you're going to have to find an updated driver somehow, because a 2003 driver is not going to have DirectX 9.0c support in it (which GalCiv REQUIRES).

You might try www.omegadrivers.net. I think they essentially wrap the old drivers with functionality to emulate what's missing. I know that with other games people have had luck using those drivers to get things working. I've never used those myself, but might be another possibility.
Reply #42 from Stardock Forums Top
Veranator: Look at your driver date in your error log. It's back in 2003. Again, no support for DirectX 9.0c, nothing's going to work. You need updated video drivers.
Reply #43 from Stardock Forums Top
Interesting, the low speed connection release notes are different from the high speed connection release notes. Lovely. I'm giving it a try. We are certainly barking up the right tree. The blue screen of death came a second later this time around and I was able to catch a glimpse of a warning dialog. The few words I had the time to read said something like "The ati2dvag driver has stopped working normally..." I'll let you know what happens after installing GART, if I can actually install it.
Reply #44 from Stardock Forums Top
The GART installation had no effect. Howevver, www.omegadrivers.net did the trick. I'm now at the "A Jouney Begins" quarterly report for the first time. If you ask me, this is the best screen of the game and should be on the Nightly Screenshot distro!

If I get through the week without another video driver related crash those guys at omegadrivers.net are getting a hefty donation from yours truly.

Silentfury23, check them out. Their installer has a few quirks so read it carefully. But in the end it worked.
--e
Reply #46 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
Thanks for taking the time to answer, Avatar Frogboy. Not sure why my links aren't showing up for you, they're linking correctly for me here if I click on them.

If you want me to email them to someone I can do that.
I installed Smart Exception yesterday, and it isn't logging any of the crashes by GalCiv2. I restarted after installing it and near as I can tell it should be working, I'll try reinstalling it though.

Update: I reinstalled Smart Exception and here's the info from the last Crash:
Date of report : 2006/02/22 14:49

AppName : GALCIV2.EXE
Crash Details : 0x74dc47e3 - [1.0.0.1, Windows XP Service Pack 2 - (2600.xpsp_sp2_gdr.050301-1519), RADEON 9600 SERIES (6.14.10.6599) + SB Live! Wave Device]

User Instructions : As I've stated before, this is happening only a few turns into the game. I'll start or load a game, and it'll run for a few minutes before crashing.
Reply #47 from Stardock Forums Top
Update - the Omega drivers solved my game crash problems and they were a breeze to install. Thanks Stardock and others for the help.
Reply #48 from Stardock Forums Top
I am having a VERY serious problem running this game.

I can view the tutorials and get through the initial game setup, but before the "loading" screen goes away my system hard locks to the point that my monitor looses signal and I have to power my PC off. When I get rebooted the system runs a file check on the C: drive (not good).

My drivers are not the very latest, but I can run DirectX 9.0C games.

Here's the debug info (PLEASE HELP!):

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: 2/22/2006, 19:37:59
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: BLACKBIRD
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: MICRO-STAR INTERNATIONAL CO., LTD
System Model: MS-6330
BIOS: Award Modular BIOS v6.00PG
Processor: AMD Athlon(tm) processor, MMX, 3DNow, ~1.0GHz
Physical Memory: 640MB RAM
Page File: 182MB used, 1381MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS


Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: RADEON 9700 PRO
Manufacturer: ATI Technologies Inc.
Chip Type: RADEON 9700 PRO AGP (0x4E44)
DAC Type: Internal DAC(400MHz)
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4E44&SUBSYS_00041002&REV_00
Display Memory: 128.0 MB
Current Display Mode: 1024 x 768 (32 bit) (85Hz)
Monitor Name: Default Monitor
Monitor Max Resolution:
Driver Name: ati2dvag.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.6525
Driver Date: 3/22/2005 22:01:18
DirectX Acceleration Enabled: Yes



Sound info
Sound device 1:
Description: SB Live! Wave Device
Default Sound Playback: Yes
Default Voice Playback: Yes
Hardware ID: PCI\VEN_1102&DEV_0002&SUBSYS_80271102&REV_08
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: emu10k1m.sys
Provider: Microsoft
Driver Version: 5.12.0001.3300
Driver Date: 8/17/2001 12:19:26
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 3
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0

Sound device 1:
Description: Modem #0 Line Playback (emulated)
Default Sound Playback: No
Default Voice Playback: No
Hardware ID:
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 81
Driver Name:
Provider:
Driver Version:
Driver Date:
Type: Emulated
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 9700 PRO
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 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\Kapeman\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\Kapeman\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.shipclass
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Kapeman\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.shipcfg
Debug Message: Reading Star Names
Debug Message: Reading Star Names... Done
*DEBUG ERROR: ***TutorialWnd: Unknown edit field Totorial_GridList_Entry type: CustomListEntry ***
Debug Message: TutorialWnd: Cannot find OBJID Totorial_All_Button
Debug Message: Clear data definitions.
*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\Kapeman\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\Metaverse\ships\*.shipclass
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Kapeman\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\Metaverse\ships\*.shipcfg
Debug Message: MetaverseWnd: Cannot find OBJID Metaverse_Character_Race_Title
Debug Message: MetaverseWnd: Cannot find OBJID Metaverse_Character_Name_Value
Debug Message: MetaverseWnd: Cannot find OBJID Metaverse_Character_Race_Value
Debug Message: Clear data definitions.
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Kapeman\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\Kapeman\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.shipclass
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Kapeman\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.shipcfg
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: 9.
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Planets
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Anomalies
Debug Message: Num Anomalies: 42
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Resources
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Done
Debug Message: Creating Civs
Debug Message: Altarian Republic: Intellence -> 30
Debug Message: Arcean Empire: Intellence -> 30
Debug Message: Torian Confederation: Intellence -> 30
Debug Message: Yor Collective: Intellence -> 30
Debug Message: Dominion of Korx: Intellence -> 30
Debug Message: Thalan Empire: Intellence -> 30
Debug Message: Creating Civs... Done
Debug Message: Updating ZOC.
Debug Message: Updating ZOC.
Debug Message: Galaxy Create... Done
Reply #49 from Stardock Forums Top
In the words of Lil Jon, YEEEEAAHHH!!!!!!
omegadrivers fixed my problem. Thanks Eric and everyone else. I'll be in my own little universe now!
Reply #50 from Stardock Forums Top
Sorry I didn't respond quickly enough, Silentfury23. I was too engrossed in the game. Glad to see its working. I'm definitely sending omegadrivers a little love via paypal. Good work Stardock and AStott for all the great help. You guys rock!