Is the Sun really this big

Blurry yes but a strange Cooincedence if you ask me?

I have the same problem.. First thing i did was a complete reinstall of the game plus stardock central. Still have the giant stars. I deleted all stardock and galciv files and folders before reinstalling. Did maintanence and a defrag before reinstall too. The game is unplayable now. I waited all week for this and now i dont know what to do. Please help. I dont want to play Civ 4 tonight. Please help!
I always do a complete reinstall for a major update. I dont mind entering my long serial everytime either, but 3 times in a row is starting to get too me.

Assuming the Earth model stayed the same size, the Sun is still far too small.

Did you mod that?

It is a 1.2 beta bug it did not happen before that... and I don't think I can play with that large of stars.

This is no mod, i have the exact same thing. My screenshots look just like that. Giant stars. Deleted pref.ini again just to make sure.

No MODS just the patch as far as I know and that was all I did after waiting for 7-10 minutes for it to load..

Please help. Heres my debug.err if it might help.

Debug Message: Version v1.2 Beta 1 last updated on: Fri May 26 19:38:18 2006
Debug Message: *********DXDiag info follows.*********
System Info
Time: 5/26/2006, 22:35:06
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: SCOTT
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: SiS
System Model: 730S
BIOS: Version 1.00
Processor: AMD Duron(tm) Processor, MMX, 3DNow, ~1.0GHz
Physical Memory: 512MB RAM
Page File: 153MB used, 1352MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS


Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: RADEON 9200
Manufacturer: ATI Technologies Inc.
Chip Type: RADEON 9200 AGP (0x5961)
DAC Type: Internal DAC(400MHz)
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_5961&SUBSYS_20021002&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: 6.14.0010.6583
Driver Date: 10/28/2005 23:12:48
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 04:27:46
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: Multisample Type chosen in prefs not supported. Disabling multisampling.
Debug Message: Using multilsample setting: D3DMULTISAMPLE_NONE
Debug Message: Game Resolution: 1024 x 768
Debug Message: Running fullscreen.
Debug Message: HAL (hw vp): RADEON 9200
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: No string tables in C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods/Data/*.str
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Movies\*.bik
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Movies\techs\*.bik
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Gfx\*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Gfx\Race\*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\sfx\*.wav
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Music\*.mp3
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Event Music\*.mp3
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: * Collectors Edition *
Debug Message: Set mouse.
Debug Message: Set update timer.
Debug Message: Clear data definitions.
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\Techs\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\ShipComponents\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Donald\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\ShipDefs\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Donald\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\*.raceconfig
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\PlanetImprovements\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\TerrainColorSchemes\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\PlanetDescriptions\*.xml
*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\Donald\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.shipclass
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Donald\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.shipcfg
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\Anomalies\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\Events\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\UPIssues\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\Invasions\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\PoliticalParties\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\StarTypes\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\StarbaseModules\*.xml
Debug Message: Reading Star Names
Debug Message: Reading Star Names... Done
Debug Message: Error loading mission 16 from C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\./Data/English/Campaigns/Dread Lords Campaign.gc2campaign
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Donald\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\Dread Lords Campaign\*.sav
Debug Message: Error loading mission 16 from C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\./Data/English/Campaigns/Dread Lords Campaign.gc2campaign
Debug Message: Creating 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: Clearing Turn Event Log
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: Loading custom map: ./Data/English/Campaigns\An Unexpected Visitor.gc2map (0 x 166812051)
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: Setting Game Options
Debug Message: Creating Civs
Debug Message: Drengin Empire: Intellence -> 42
Debug Message: Altarian Republic: Intellence -> 65
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: UIBeginGameHelper: New Campaign Game Started: Dread Lords Campaign
Debug Message: StackedShipsWnd: Cannot find OBJID Stacked_Logistics_Value
Debug Message: StackedShipsWnd: Cannot find OBJID stacked_Fleet_More_Button
Debug Message: TitleWnd: Quit Button.
Debug Message: Posting WM_CLOSE message.
Debug Message: WM_CLOSE message received.
Debug Message: GameUninitialize start
Debug Message: Killing hidden planet surface init thread. Waiting for it to die.

Debug Message: Aborting hidden planet surface initialization.
Debug Message: Hidden planet surface init thread dead.
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: Clearing Turn Event Log
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: WorkAreaBack.png not cleared 1 counts left.
Debug Message: GameUninitialize end
Debug Message: Device not cleared. 2 counts left.
Debug Message: D3D not cleared. 1 counts left.
Debug Message: Destroying Window.
Debug Message: Main Shell terminating normally

Assuming the Earth model stayed the same size, the Sun is still far too small.

Thought this might be interesting. If drawn to scale on the 2D view in GC2, the sun would be almost 12,000 times the size of the earth in terms of circle area. If you had a empty bowl the size of the sun, it would take more than 1 million earths to fill it. Hard to imagine isn't it.

Please open your Options menu and uncheck the "Use Mods" checkbox. Do you still have the problem? Deleting prefs.ini will set your settings to default, but I believe this option is ON by default.

I have the same problem, so I would like to answer CodeCritter's advise by saying yes the problem continues even with Mods unchecked for me.

Same issue here.... really big stars - game now unplayable...


Also see that my ships have routes set way off the mini map - even on new game.


tried several different options but still giant stars remain.


not so good...

Does it matter what race you play as? If you play as someone not terrans, do you still have this problem?

Yes - tried several new games... different races, etc.
thought it was my old version saved game at first, but it's in everything now...

I also have the same issue and tried your suggestion but have the same result.it is very difficult to find the ships you have to zoom just right to see them . it basically makes the game unplayable for me. on the main map every star (sun)is way too large .i tried different sized maps on tiny the sun takes up nearly one-third of the main map

I have a feeling it is the sphere.x file in galciv2/gfx/models that is causing the problem.

If you installed from a CD, please try this:
1. Uninstall the game
2. Reinstall version 1.0 (from the CD)
3. Copy your sphere.x file from galciv2/gfx/models to your desktop
4. Update to version 1.2
5. Copy your sphere.x file from the desktop to galciv2/gfx/models and overwrite the file

Does this fix the problem?

Does zooming inside of the stars reveal that the planets look huge too, or is it just stars?

Mine's clean - not getting this - if you need any data for comparison - shout I'll get it

(I went from last Beta build to 1.2Beta via Stardock Central)

Regards
Zy

Could more people with this problem please post their debug.err files? We might be able to notice a common denominator.

zooming in reveals the moon first which is huge also then the zooming further reveals the planetbut that is all you can see with the exception of the ships when you do this

Sure CC the whole thing can do!

Debug Message: Version v1.2 Beta 1 last updated on: Fri May 26 19:38:18 2006
Debug Message: *********DXDiag info follows.*********
System Info
Time: 5/26/2006, 19:39:16
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: DREAMTWISTER
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: MicronPC_MPC
System Model: A7N8X
BIOS: Ver 1.65
Processor: AMD Athlon(tm) , MMX, 3DNow, ~1.2GHz
Physical Memory: 512MB RAM
Page File: 494MB used, 755MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS


Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: NVIDIA GeForce4 Ti 4200 with AGP8X
Manufacturer: NVIDIA
Chip Type: GeForce4 Ti 4200 with AGP8X
DAC Type: Integrated RAMDAC
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_10DE&DEV_0281&SUBSYS_2930107D&REV_A1
Display Memory: 128.0 MB
Current Display Mode: 1024 x 768 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor Name: SyncMaster 753DF(X)/703DF(X)/783DF(X), SyncMaster Magic CD173A(T)
Monitor Max Resolution: 1280,1024
Driver Name: nv4_disp.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.8421
Driver Date: 3/9/2006 16:29:00
DirectX Acceleration Enabled: Yes



Sound info
Sound device 1:
Description: NVIDIA(R) nForce(TM) Audio
Default Sound Playback: Yes
Default Voice Playback: Yes
Hardware ID: NFORCE_VAD
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: nvapu.sys
Provider: NVIDIA Corporation
Driver Version: 6.14.0460.0000
Driver Date: 1/26/2005 11:47:34
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 Ti 4200 with AGP8X
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 27
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: No string tables in C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods/Data/*.str
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Movies\*.bik
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Movies\techs\*.bik
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Gfx\*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Gfx\Race\*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\sfx\*.wav
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Music\*.mp3
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Event Music\*.mp3
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: * Collectors Edition *
Debug Message: Set mouse.
Debug Message: Set update timer.
Debug Message: Clear data definitions.
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\Techs\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\ShipComponents\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\ShipDefs\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\PlanetImprovements\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\TerrainColorSchemes\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\PlanetDescriptions\*.xml
*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\El Conquest\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.shipclass
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\Anomalies\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\Events\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\UPIssues\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\Invasions\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\PoliticalParties\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\StarTypes\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\StarbaseModules\*.xml
Debug Message: Reading Star Names
Debug Message: Reading Star Names... Done
Debug Message: GalaxyWnd: Cannot find OBJID Scenario_CPU_Option_Title
Debug Message: GalaxyWnd: Cannot find OBJID Scenario_CPU_Option_Checkbox
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\CustomMaps\*.gc2map
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\Stardock\TotalGaming\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\Scenarios\*.gc2scenario
Debug Message: CustomRaceWnd: Cannot find OBJID CustomRace_Description_Text
Debug Message: CustomRaceWnd: Cannot find OBJID CustomRace_Tab_Homeworld
Debug Message: Creating 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: Clearing Turn Event Log
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: Galaxy Size Set: 18 x 18
Debug Message: Creating Random Map
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Stars
Debug Message: Number of Unplaced Stars: 37.
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: 300
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Resources
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Done
Debug Message: Setting Game Options
Debug Message: Creating Civs
Debug Message: Drengin Empire: Intellence -> 85
Debug Message: Altarian Republic: Intellence -> 85
Debug Message: Arcean Empire: Intellence -> 85
Debug Message: Torian Confederation: Intellence -> 85
Debug Message: Yor Collective: Intellence -> 85
Debug Message: Dominion of Korx: Intellence -> 85
Debug Message: Drath Legion: Intellence -> 85
Debug Message: Thalan Empire: Intellence -> 85
Debug Message: Iconian Refuge: Intellence -> 85
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: UIBeginGameHelper: New Game Started
Debug Message: StackedShipsWnd: Cannot find OBJID Stacked_Logistics_Value
Debug Message: StackedShipsWnd: Cannot find OBJID stacked_Fleet_More_Button
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: Clearing Turn Event Log
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: WorkAreaBack.png not cleared 1 counts left.
Debug Message: GameUninitialize end
Debug Message: Device not cleared. 2 counts left.
Debug Message: D3D not cleared. 1 counts left.
Debug Message: Destroying Window.
Debug Message: Main Shell terminating normally

Hope this helps you Code Critter and that was just to weierd It never happed to me before the beta was installed..

* * * * * PLEASE TRY THIS * * * * *

Make a backup of the file /galciv2/gfx/models

Then download the previous version of sphere.x here at link:
Link


Extract the zip file to your /Program Files/Stardock/TotalGaming/Galciv2 folder:
This will overwrite the existing sphere.x file.

Start up the game

Did this fix the problem?

----------
galciv2\models\gfx\sphere.x
1.2 beta ver: 5/26/06 18:04 59,146 sphere.x
test ver from the linked .zip: 1/10/06 22:11 392,355 sphere.x

Debug Message: Version v1.2 Beta 1 last updated on: Fri May 26 19:38:18 2006
Debug Message: *********DXDiag info follows.*********
System Info
Time: 5/26/2006, 22:08:56
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: YOUR-HKYV2EDR82
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: Compaq
System Model: PRESARIO 5421SR
BIOS: 686Y2 v2.04
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 1.60GHz
Physical Memory: 512MB RAM
Page File: 299MB used, 1715MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS


Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: NVIDIA GeForce4 MX 420
Manufacturer: NVIDIA
Chip Type: GeForce4 MX 420
DAC Type: Integrated RAMDAC
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_10DE&DEV_0172&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_A3
Display Memory: 64.0 MB
Current Display Mode: 1024 x 768 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor Name: Default Monitor
Monitor Max Resolution:
Driver Name: nv4_disp.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.5216
Driver Date: 10/6/2003 14:16:00
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_008A0E11&REV_12
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: smwdm.sys
Provider: Analog Devices
Driver Version: 5.12.0001.3030
Driver Date: 7/25/2001 17:40:30
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_NONMASKABLE
Debug Message: Game Resolution: 1024 x 768
Debug Message: Running fullscreen.
Debug Message: HAL (sw vp): NVIDIA GeForce4 MX 420
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 ERROR: ***Unable to find required tech ImpossibleTech for PirateShip. ***
*DEBUG ERROR: ***Unable to find required tech ImpossibleTech for Starbase. ***

Hold that I got this time..

CC all I get is a 404 error on your link

Sorry about that, please try the link again.

I have the same problem with the huge suns.

Also a bug/exploit, if You create a new race You will have some abilites that have bonuses, but no boxes checkmarked. After unchecking everything You have 10 points, but also 20+ to loyalty and 25+ to soldiering.

Debug Message: Version v1.2 Beta 1 last updated on: Fri May 26 19:38:18 2006
Debug Message: *********DXDiag info follows.*********
System Info
Time: 5/26/2006, 22:27:33
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: SHAWN
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 4300
BIOS: Default System BIOS
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 1.60GHz
Physical Memory: 768MB RAM
Page File: 266MB used, 1457MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS


Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: RADEON 9000 SERIES
Manufacturer: ATI Technologies Inc.
Chip Type: RADEON 9000 PRO AGP (0x4966)
DAC Type: Internal DAC(400MHz)
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4966&SUBSYS_00021002&REV_01
Display Memory: 128.0 MB
Current Display Mode: 1024 x 768 (32 bit) (85Hz)
Monitor Name: Dell M781s
Monitor Max Resolution: 1600,1200
Driver Name: ati2dvag.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.6601
Driver Date: 2/21/2006 21:46:46
DirectX Acceleration Enabled: Yes



Sound info
Sound device 1:
Description: SB Live! Audio [DCE0]
Default Sound Playback: Yes
Default Voice Playback: Yes
Hardware ID: PCI\VEN_1102&DEV_0002&SUBSYS_80221102&REV_07
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_NONMASKABLE
Debug Message: Game Resolution: 1024 x 768
Debug Message: Running fullscreen.
Debug Message: HAL (hw vp): RADEON 9000 SERIES
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: No string tables in D:\A-Mine\Games\GalCiv2\Mods/Data/*.str
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\A-Mine\Games\GalCiv2\Mods\Movies\*.bik
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\A-Mine\Games\GalCiv2\Mods\Movies\techs\*.bik
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\A-Mine\Games\GalCiv2\Mods\Gfx\*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\A-Mine\Games\GalCiv2\Mods\Gfx\Race\*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\A-Mine\Games\GalCiv2\Mods\sfx\*.wav
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\A-Mine\Games\GalCiv2\Mods\Music\*.mp3
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\A-Mine\Games\GalCiv2\Mods\Event Music\*.mp3
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: * Collectors Edition *
Debug Message: Set mouse.
Debug Message: Set update timer.
Debug Message: Clear data definitions.
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\A-Mine\Games\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\Techs\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\A-Mine\Games\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\ShipComponents\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\A-Mine\Games\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\ShipDefs\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\A-Mine\Games\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\PlanetImprovements\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\A-Mine\Games\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\TerrainColorSchemes\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\A-Mine\Games\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\PlanetDescriptions\*.xml
*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\Zhyn\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.shipclass
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\A-Mine\Games\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\Anomalies\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\A-Mine\Games\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\Events\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\A-Mine\Games\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\UPIssues\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\A-Mine\Games\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\Invasions\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\A-Mine\Games\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\PoliticalParties\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\A-Mine\Games\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\StarTypes\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\A-Mine\Games\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\StarbaseModules\*.xml
Debug Message: Reading Star Names
Debug Message: Reading Star Names... Done
Debug Message: GalaxyWnd: Cannot find OBJID Scenario_CPU_Option_Title
Debug Message: GalaxyWnd: Cannot find OBJID Scenario_CPU_Option_Checkbox
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\A-Mine\Games\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\CustomMaps\*.gc2map
Debug Message: No files found matching mask D:\A-Mine\Games\GalCiv2\Mods\Data\Scenarios\*.gc2scenario
Debug Message: CustomRaceWnd: Cannot find OBJID CustomRace_Description_Text
Debug Message: CustomRaceWnd: Cannot find OBJID CustomRace_Tab_Homeworld
Debug Message: Creating 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: Clearing Turn Event Log
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: Galaxy Size Set: 5 x 5
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: *************** 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: Setting Game Options
Debug Message: Creating Civs
Debug Message: Terran Alliance: Intellence -> 42
Debug Message: Drengin Empire: Intellence -> 42
Debug Message: Altarian Republic: Intellence -> 42
Debug Message: Torian Confederation: Intellence -> 42
Debug Message: Yor Collective: Intellence -> 42
Debug Message: Drath Legion: Intellence -> 42
Debug Message: Thalan Empire: Intellence -> 30
Debug Message: Iconian Refuge: Intellence -> 42
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: UIBeginGameHelper: New Game Started
Debug Message: StackedShipsWnd: Cannot find OBJID Stacked_Logistics_Value
Debug Message: StackedShipsWnd: Cannot find OBJID stacked_Fleet_More_Button
Debug Message: OptionsWnd: Quit Btn
Debug Message: Posting WM_CLOSE message.
Debug Message: WM_CLOSE message received.
Debug Message: GameUninitialize start
Debug Message: Killing hidden planet surface init thread. Waiting for it to die.

Debug Message: Aborting hidden planet surface initialization.
Debug Message: Hidden planet surface init thread dead.
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: Clearing Turn Event Log
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: WorkAreaBack.png not cleared 1 counts left.
Debug Message: GameUninitialize end
Debug Message: Device not cleared. 2 counts left.
Debug Message: D3D not cleared. 1 counts left.
Debug Message: Destroying Window.
Debug Message: Main Shell terminating normally