I already did, it didn't solve the problem. Any idea of what could be the source of the problem or should I abandon ?

I recently purchased the GalCiv2 Ultimate Edition and have not been able to launch the game. The issue is the same as the OP and I've read through the thread. It seems that the solution of editting the prefs.ini file could do the trick, however I do not have a prefs.ini file. Probably because I have yet to succsussfully launch the game? There is no debug.err file either, possibly because I have to end to game through the task manager?

I did try creating a text file in the same folder as GalCiv2.exe, with just one line of text: Fullscreen=0 in the file and saved it with the name 'prefs.ini'. This did not work though so I wonder if there needs to be header information in the file or if it should be in a subdirectory.

Can you post the contents of a sample prefs.ini for me to copy?

I see that there are seperate folders for the expansions, will each one needs a prefs.ini file? and do they all follow the same format?

Thank you!

If you're getting far enough to get a black screen, there will be a prefs.ini and debug.err file in the folder for whichever version you're trying to run under My Documents\My Games. Putting the files directly in the game's install folder would have no effect.

As far as I know, the prefs.ini file is created with default values when the game is installed - not after it has run.

The debug.err file is created fresh each time you start the program, and well before you would come to a black screen.

So the files are there. You just need to look in the correct locations. (make sure you can see file extensions in Windows Explorer - it will make it easier)

Game goes to loading screen then goes to black screen, no visual, but music plays... Help Please

Debug Message:  Version v1.52 last updated on: Tue Jul 15 17:23:38 2008
Debug Message:  Checking DX Version.
Debug Message:  *********DXDiag info follows.*********
System Info
Time: 3/15/2010, 13:51:18
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: AJLOVE
Operating System: Windows XP Professional (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 2 (2600.xpsp_sp2_gdr.091208-2028)
Languages: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: Dell Computer Corporation
System Model: Dimension 4600              
BIOS: Default System BIOS
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 2.40GHz
Physical Memory: 1280MB RAM
Page File: 345MB used, 2708MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS


Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: NVIDIA GeForce4 MX 440 with AGP8X (Dell)
Manufacturer: NVIDIA
Chip Type: GeForce4 MX 440 with AGP8X
DAC Type: Integrated RAMDAC
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_10DE&DEV_0181&SUBSYS_01B610DE&REV_A2
Display Memory: 64.0 MB
Current Display Mode: 1024 x 768 (16 bit) (75Hz)
Monitor Name: Plug and Play Monitor
Monitor Max Resolution: 1600,1200
Driver Name: nv4_disp.dll
Driver Version: 6.13.0010.4238
Driver Date: 3/14/2003 15:59:00
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_24D5&SUBSYS_01551028&REV_02
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: smwdm.sys
Provider: Analog Devices
Driver Version: 5.12.0001.3555
Driver Date: 2/28/2003 10:17:18
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 3
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0
 
Sound device 1:
Description: USB Internet Phone by TigerJet
Default Sound Playback: No
Default Voice Playback: No
Hardware ID: USB\Vid_06e6&Pid_c200&Rev_0001&MI_01
Manufacturer ID: 65535
Product ID: 65535
Driver Name: usbaudio.sys
Provider: Microsoft
Driver Version: 5.01.2600.2180
Driver Date: 8/3/2004 23:07:55
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 software vertex processing
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 MX 440 with AGP8X (Dell)
Debug Message:  D3DPRESENT_INTERVAL_IMMEDIATE
Debug Message:  Refresh rate: 0
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:  Border size reported as 6 by 32
Debug Message:  RGB in format 5:6:5, Masks reported as f800:7e0:1f
Debug Message:  Now windowed.
Debug Message:  Shell initialization complete
Debug Message:  GalCiv2 is activated.
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:  * Collectors Edition *
Debug Message:  Set mouse.
Debug Message:  Set update timer.

Your video drivers are extremely outdated (from 2003)--the game cannot run reliably (or at all) with drivers older than 2005. As well, your video card does not meet the game's minimum requirements so if you do update your drivers, you will still have some graphics issues.

You can get the most recent video driver here (from 2006, when nVidia discontinued support for that card).

Just thought I would post cause I had the same problem and could not play the game after just purchasing it.  Turns out that modifying "Prefs" file to MY ACTUAL screen resolution (wide screen) worked perfectly.  Game runs great now.

My "Prefs" file was located in D:\Documents and Settings\"insert computer name you have "\My Documents\My Games\GC2TwilightArnor

I saved a copy of the file just in case something got messed up.  Opent he file (notepad should be the default) Under video I simply changed the numbers to match my desktop screen and then saved the file (cntrl S).  Done.

[Video]
DisplayWidth=1440
DisplayHeight=900

Good luck

Hello. I've been having a very similar problem to the original poster, uninstalled a while ago to make some space, reinstalled and it goes straight to black when I try to load it up. It does this with both Dread Lords and Dark Avatar. None of the listed tips have helped me.

Here is my de-bug;

Debug Message:  Version v1.53 last updated on: Tue Nov  4 11:55:35 2008
Debug Message:  Checking DX Version.
Debug Message:  *********DXDiag info follows.*********
System Info
Time: 9/4/2010, 10:52:28
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: HP72472929110
Operating System: Windows XP Professional (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 3 (2600.xpsp_sp3_gdr.100427-1636)
Languages: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: Hewlett-Packard
System Model: HP dx2000 MT (PX836AA)
BIOS: BIOS Date: 04/13/05 15:55:53 NR146 BIOS Rev: 1.15
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 2.80GHz
Physical Memory: 758MB RAM
Page File: 706MB used, 754MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS


Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: Intel(R) 82865G Graphics Controller
Manufacturer: Intel Corporation
Chip Type: Intel(R) 82865G Graphics Controller
DAC Type: Internal
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_2572&SUBSYS_218114A4&REV_02
Display Memory: n/a
Current Display Mode: 1280 x 1024 (32 bit) (75Hz)
Monitor Name: SONY HMD-A400
Monitor Max Resolution: 1600,1200
Driver Name: ialmrnt5.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.4396
Driver Date: 9/20/2005 11:52:38
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_24D5&SUBSYS_218114A4&REV_02
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: smwdm.sys
Provider: Analog Devices
Driver Version: 5.12.0001.3665
Driver Date: 8/29/2003 10:09:00
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 3
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0
 
Sound device 1:
Description: Modem #1 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:  Preparing to change display settings.
Debug Message:  No compatible devices found.
Debug Message:  InitializeDirect3D Failed.
Debug Message:  Now windowed.
Debug Message:  Shell initialization complete
Debug Message:  GalCiv2 is activated.
Debug Message:  WM_CLOSE message received.
Debug Message:  GameUninitialize start

Try updating those video drivers via HP's or (more likely) intel's website. They're five years out of date (older than the game's original release, even).

No effect, I'm afraid. I updated my drivers from Intel to the most recent, and I'm still getting an all black screen.

What's the date on the new drivers? The game will need something newer than 2006 at least.

If the new ones are better than that, please contact [email protected] for further troubleshooting.

The new ones are from September of '07, shortly before Intel cut support for 'em. I'll contact support. Thank you very much for the help you've provided, I deeply appreciate it.

My game has been working fine, but has suddenly started to have problems.  I can only go a couple of turns in most cases before I get the black screen.  The only way out is a manual shut down.  I have tried the AMD optimizer, I have updated my video driver to a 2009 version, I have reinstalled TOA.  Here is the latest

Debug Message:  Version v2.03 Twilight of the Arnor last updated on: Thu Jul 23 11:47:38 2009
Debug Message:  Could not open reg key HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE SOFTWARE\Stardock\ComponentManager\Drengin.net\GalCiv2UL
Debug Message:  Could not open reg key HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE SOFTWARE\Stardock\ComponentManager\Drengin.net\GC2EU
Debug Message:  Could not query reg key HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE SOFTWARE\Stardock\ComponentManager\Drengin.net value named Serial No
Debug Message:  Could not open reg key HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE Software\Stardock\Drengin.net\GalCiv2UL
Debug Message:  Could not open reg key HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE Software\Stardock\Drengin.net\GC2EU
Debug Message:  Could not open reg key HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE Software\Stardock\Drengin.net\GalCiv2UL
Debug Message:  Could not open reg key HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE Software\Stardock\Drengin.net\GC2EU
Debug Message:  Checking DX Version.
Debug Message:  *********DXDiag info follows.*********
System Info
Time: 9/21/2010, 18:38:59
DirectX Version: DirectX 11
Machine Name: FRANK-PC
Operating System: Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit (6.1, Build 7600) (7600.win7_gdr.100618-1621)
Languages: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: Hewlett-Packard
System Model: HP Pavilion dv7 Notebook PC
BIOS: Default System BIOS
Processor: AMD Turion(tm) II Ultra Dual-Core Mobile M600 (2 CPUs), ~2.4GHz
Physical Memory: 4096MB RAM
Page File: 2109MB used, 5560MB available
Windows Dir: C:\Windows

Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: AMD M880G with ATI Mobility Radeon HD 4200
Manufacturer: ATI Technologies Inc.
Chip Type: ATI display adapter (0x9712)
DAC Type: Internal DAC(400MHz)
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_9712&SUBSYS_3638103C&REV_00
Display Memory: 1970 MB
Current Display Mode: 1600 x 900 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor Name: Generic PnP Monitor
Monitor Max Resolution:
Driver Name: atiumd64.dll,atidxx64.dll,atiumdag,atidxx32,atiumdva,atiumd6a.cap,atitmm64.dll
Driver Version: 8.14.0010.0678
Driver Date: 7/2/2009 10:54:54
DirectX Acceleration Enabled: Yes
 

Sound info
Sound device 1:
Description: Speakers (2- Altec USB Audio)
Default Sound Playback: Yes
Default Voice Playback: Yes
Hardware ID: USB\VID_04D2&PID_0070&REV_0103&MI_00
Manufacturer ID: 65535
Product ID: 65535
Driver Name: USBAUDIO.sys
Provider: Microsoft
Driver Version: 6.01.7600.16385
Driver Date: 7/13/2009 17:06:32
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 1
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0
 
Sound device 1:
Description: SPDIF (Digital Out via HP Dock) (IDT High Definition Audio CODEC)
Default Sound Playback: No
Default Voice Playback: No
Hardware ID: HDAUDIO\FUNC_01&VEN_111D&DEV_7603&SUBSYS_103C3638&REV_1002
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: stwrt64.sys
Provider: IDT
Driver Version: 6.10.6225.0000
Driver Date: 7/21/2009 18:33:32
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 1
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0
 
Sound device 1:
Description: Speakers and Dual Headphones (IDT High Definition Audio CODEC)
Default Sound Playback: No
Default Voice Playback: No
Hardware ID: HDAUDIO\FUNC_01&VEN_111D&DEV_7603&SUBSYS_103C3638&REV_1002
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: stwrt64.sys
Provider: IDT
Driver Version: 6.10.6225.0000
Driver Date: 7/21/2009 18:33:32
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:  Preparing to change display settings.
Debug Message:  Using hardware vertex processing
Debug Message:  Using multilsample setting: D3DMULTISAMPLE_4_SAMPLES
Debug Message:  Attempting to create D3DDevice at resolution 1600 x 900, Windowed: 1, Multisample: 4
Debug Message:  Game Resolution: 1600 x 900
Debug Message:  Running in windowed mode.
Debug Message:  HAL (hw vp): AMD M880G with ATI Mobility Radeon HD 4200
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 28
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:  GalCiv2 is activated.
Debug Message:  ***** Initializing Game *****
Debug Message:  Timer Frequency is 0 23ac31
Debug Message:  Could not open reg key HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE Software\Stardock\Drengin.net\GalCiv2UL
Debug Message:  Could not open reg key HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE Software\Stardock\Drengin.net\GC2EU
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Program Files (x86)\Stardock Games\GalCiv2\./Data/ShipTemplates/\*.shipcfg
Debug Message:  Could not open reg key HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE SOFTWARE\Stardock\ObjectDesktop\DesktopX
Debug Message:  Initializing sound card.
Debug Message:  initailizing bink
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Program Files (x86)\Stardock Games\GalCiv2\DarkAvatar\Movies\techs\*.bik
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask Movies\techs\*.bik
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask Gfx\Tutorials\*.bik
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Users\frank\Documents\My Games\GC2TwilightArnor\Gfx\Movies\*.bik
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Users\frank\Documents\My Games\GC2TwilightArnor\sfx\*.wav
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Users\frank\Documents\My Games\GC2TwilightArnor\Music\*.mp3
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Users\frank\Documents\My Games\GC2TwilightArnor\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:  Set mouse.
Debug Message:  Set update timer.
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask ./Data/*.xml
Debug Message:  Clear data definitions.
Debug Message:  Killing ship styles:
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Program Files (x86)\Stardock Games\GalCiv2./Data/English/\ShipStyles\*.xml
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Users\frank\Documents\My Games\GC2TwilightArnor\ShipStyles\*.xml
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Program Files (x86)\Stardock Games\GalCiv2\DarkAvatar./Data/\FleetFormations\*.fleet
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask ./Data/\FleetFormations\*.fleet
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Program Files (x86)\Stardock Games\GalCiv2\DarkAvatar\Gfx\Planets\C0*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask Gfx\Planets\C0*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/1SideN*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/1SideE*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/1SideS*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/1SideW*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/2SideN*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/2SideE*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/2SideS*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/2SideW*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/3SideN*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/3SideE*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/3SideS*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/3SideW*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/4SideN*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/4SideE*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/4SideS*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask gfx/Terrain/4SideW*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Program Files (x86)\Stardock Games\GalCiv2\DarkAvatar/gfx/Terrain/1SideN*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Program Files (x86)\Stardock Games\GalCiv2\DarkAvatar/gfx/Terrain/1SideE*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Program Files (x86)\Stardock Games\GalCiv2\DarkAvatar/gfx/Terrain/1SideS*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Program Files (x86)\Stardock Games\GalCiv2\DarkAvatar/gfx/Terrain/1SideW*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Program Files (x86)\Stardock Games\GalCiv2\DarkAvatar/gfx/Terrain/2SideN*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Program Files (x86)\Stardock Games\GalCiv2\DarkAvatar/gfx/Terrain/2SideE*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Program Files (x86)\Stardock Games\GalCiv2\DarkAvatar/gfx/Terrain/2SideS*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Program Files (x86)\Stardock Games\GalCiv2\DarkAvatar/gfx/Terrain/2SideW*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Program Files (x86)\Stardock Games\GalCiv2\DarkAvatar/gfx/Terrain/3SideN*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Program Files (x86)\Stardock Games\GalCiv2\DarkAvatar/gfx/Terrain/3SideE*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Program Files (x86)\Stardock Games\GalCiv2\DarkAvatar/gfx/Terrain/3SideS*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Program Files (x86)\Stardock Games\GalCiv2\DarkAvatar/gfx/Terrain/3SideW*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Program Files (x86)\Stardock Games\GalCiv2\DarkAvatar/gfx/Terrain/4SideN*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Program Files (x86)\Stardock Games\GalCiv2\DarkAvatar/gfx/Terrain/4SideE*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Program Files (x86)\Stardock Games\GalCiv2\DarkAvatar/gfx/Terrain/4SideS*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Program Files (x86)\Stardock Games\GalCiv2\DarkAvatar/gfx/Terrain/4SideW*.png
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Program Files (x86)\Stardock Games\GalCiv2\./Data/ShipTemplates/\*.shipcfg
Debug Message:  Reading Star Names
Debug Message:  Reading Star Names... Done
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask ./Data/English/Tutorials/*.xml
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Users\frank\Documents\My Games\GC2TwilightArnor\Backup\*.sav
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Users\frank\Documents\My Games\GC2TwilightArnor\CustomMaps\*.sav
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Users\frank\Documents\My Games\GC2TwilightArnor\Dark Avatar\*.sav
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Users\frank\Documents\My Games\GC2TwilightArnor\Gfx\*.sav
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Users\frank\Documents\My Games\GC2TwilightArnor\Metaverse\*.sav
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Users\frank\Documents\My Games\GC2TwilightArnor\SandboxGames\*.sav
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Users\frank\Documents\My Games\GC2TwilightArnor\ships\*.sav
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Users\frank\Documents\My Games\GC2TwilightArnor\ShipStyles\*.sav
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Users\frank\Documents\My Games\GC2TwilightArnor\shiptemplates\*.sav
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Users\frank\Documents\My Games\GC2TwilightArnor\temp\*.sav
Debug Message:  No files found matching mask C:\Users\frank\Documents\My Games\GC2TwilightArnor\Twilight of the Arnor\*.sav
Debug Message:  Loading save game C:\Users\frank\Documents\My Games\GC2TwilightArnor\AutoSave.sav
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 asteroid fields.
Debug Message:  Killing asteroid field mining bases.
Debug Message:  Killing space resources.
Debug Message:  Killing ascension crystals.
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
Debug Message:  Loading Data Defs
Debug Message:  Clear data definitions.
Debug Message:  Killing ship styles:
Debug Message:  Loading TechDefs
Debug Message:  Max num techs: 523
Debug Message:  Loading ImprovementDB
Debug Message:  Loading Component Defs
Debug Message:  Loading ShipTypes
Debug Message:  Loading ShipTemplates
Debug Message:  Loading ParsedHardpoints
Debug Message:  Loading AnomalyTypes
Debug Message:  Loading RandomEvents
Debug Message:  Loading UPIssues
Debug Message:  Loading ResourceTypes
Debug Message:  Loading InvasionTactics
Debug Message:  Loading SBmodules
Debug Message:  Loading PoliticalParties
Debug Message:  Loading Planet Types
Debug Message:  Loading Star Types
Debug Message:  Loading AFMBModules
Debug Message:  Loading ShipStyles
Debug Message:  Loading TechTrees
Debug Message:  Loading TechTreeDefs
Debug Message:  Loading Game
Debug Message:  Loading: Game mode is normal.
Debug Message:  Loading Galaxy
Debug Message:  Game started in version v2.03 Twilight of the Arnor
Debug Message:  Sectors across: 12 x 12
Debug Message:  Loading FOW Map
Debug Message:  Loading ZOC Map
Debug Message:  Loading Planets
Debug Message:  Loading Stars
Debug Message:  Loading Anomalies
Debug Message:  Loading Resources
Debug Message:  Loading AscensionCrystals
Debug Message:  Loading AsteroidFields
Debug Message:  Loading AFMiningBases
Debug Message:  Loading Civs
Debug Message:  Loading player civ Terran Alliance
Debug Message:  Loaded Civ Thalan Empire who has intelligence 65
Debug Message:  Loaded Civ Drengin Empire who has intelligence 65
Debug Message:  Loaded Civ Korath Clan who has intelligence 65
Debug Message:  Loaded Civ Krynn Consulate who has intelligence 65
Debug Message:  Loaded Civ Arcean Empire who has intelligence 65
Debug Message:  Loaded Civ Yor Collective who has intelligence 65
Debug Message:  Loaded Civ Drath Legion who has intelligence 65
Debug Message:  Loaded Civ Scottlingas who has intelligence 81
Debug Message:  Loaded Civ LentzLandians who has intelligence 74
Debug Message:  Loaded Civ Snathi who has intelligence 80
Debug Message:  Loaded Civ Pirates who has intelligence 1
Debug Message:  Loading Colonies
Debug Message:  Loading RallyPoints
Debug Message:  Loading Ships
Debug Message:  Loading Fleets
Debug Message:  Loading Turn Event Log
Debug Message:  Loading Treaties
Debug Message:  Loading ENDGALAXYDATA
Debug Message:  Updating ZOC.
Debug Message:  UIBeginGame called with g_ulLocalPlayerID = 0
Debug Message:  UIBeginGameHelper: New Game Started
Debug Message:  UIBeginGameHelper: Mods are Disabled

Are you having issues starting any new game, or just loading that save? If there was an error when that autosave was made, it may just be corrupt. So a debug.err from when the actual problem occurs would better help with a diagnosis.

The game loads fine and crashes during play and this was the debug.er file after it crashed.  The strange thing is that I never had a problem until recently.  I haven't tried starting any new games to see if it would crash there.  I have been able to save the game to another compter (winxp) that plays fine. 

oh man.  it appears that there is a more insidious plot at hand, for other games have begun to freeze. 

Hi,

I just bought Galactic Civilization 2, and i can't get it to work properly.  I've heard that you guys can be really helpful so I though I'd ask for some help in order to play the game.  I'm using Windows 7 on an Acer Aspire X1800 with 2.7 GHz and 3 GB RAM.  It's a 64-bit operating system.  I have Directx 11.

When i try to launch the game, a message comes up saying: "warning: directx acceleration not enabled.  You may experience difficulties running Galactic Civilization 2."
Then part of my screen gets filled with a black area, and in order to get rid of it i have to open my task manager and "end task" for Gal Civ 2.  Thats all I can get the game to do.  I've updated my video drivers today and the problem is unchanged.  I've tried changing the screen resolution to match my desktop in prefs.ini but all that does is fill the whole screen with black instead of part of it.

My display adapter is NVIDIA GeForce 7100 / NVIDIA nForce 630i.  I've updated its drivers today.
The adapter information reads:

chip type: GeForce 7100 / nForce 630i
DAC type: integrated RAMDAC
Adapter string: GeForce 7100 / nForce 630i
Bios information: version 5.73.32.8.0

Total Available Graphics Memory: 1407 MB
Dedicated Video Memory: 256 MB
System Video Memory: 0 MB
Shared System Memory: 1151 MB

I understand that the 0 MB in System Video Memory may be the problem but is there anything I can do besides buying a new computer? Is it possible to move some of that memory around, or do i need a new video card? Please Help!

-Ezra

p.s. i can't seem to find the debug info, or even if the launch of the game gets far enough to generate any...

That shouldn't be an issue--the 256 dedicated should be enough whether it shares some or not from the system memory.

That error message was a common issue in Win7 RC that Microsoft solved before RTM--you wouldn't happen to be running the RC still?

Otherwise, there should be a debug.err file located in My Documents\My Games\GC2TwilightArnor (or similar if you're playing DL/DA). If the game is getting far enough to give a DX warning, it's getting far enough to write one.

hmm.  in C:\Users\Ralph\Documents\My Games\GalCiv2 all there is is a folder called "metaverse" which is empty, and a file called "prefs"...is there anywhere else it might be?

I bought this computer less than a year ago, but how do i check if its an RC?

Sounds like you're running a very old version of the game in that case--try updating to the latest version off Impulse and it should generate the debug.err file there after that. Prior to 1.4 or so it generated the debug.err file in the game's install folder.

I got the game used, so i think my serial number is not going to let me update the game. And yes i think it's version 1.0

okay i looked in the install folder and found a debug file.  Thanks so much for your help by the way.  Maybe there's something going on that you can see here:

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: 9/29/2010, 21:20:18
DirectX Version: DirectX 11
Machine Name: RALPH-PC
Operating System: Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit (6.1, Build 7600) (7600.win7_gdr.100618-1621)
Languages: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: Acer
System Model: Aspire X1800
BIOS: Default System BIOS
Processor: Pentium(R) Dual-Core  CPU      E5400  @ 2.70GHz (2 CPUs), ~2.7GHz
Physical Memory: 3072MB RAM
Page File: 1274MB used, 4354MB available
Windows Dir: C:\Windows


Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: NVIDIA GeForce 7100 / NVIDIA nForce 630i
Manufacturer: NVIDIA
Chip Type: GeForce 7100 / nForce 630i
DAC Type: Integrated RAMDAC
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_10DE&DEV_07E1&SUBSYS_01581025&REV_A2
Display Memory: 1401 MB
Current Display Mode: 1600 x 900 (32 bit) (59Hz)
Monitor Name: Generic PnP Monitor
Monitor Max Resolution:
Driver Name: nvd3dumx.dll,nvd3dum
Driver Version: 8.17.0012.5896
Driver Date: 7/10/2010 05:38:00
DirectX Acceleration Enabled: No
 


Sound info
Sound device 1:
Description: Speakers (Realtek High Definition Audio)
Default Sound Playback: Yes
Default Voice Playback: Yes
Hardware ID: HDAUDIO\FUNC_01&VEN_10EC&DEV_0888&SUBSYS_10250158&REV_1002
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: RTKVHD64.sys
Provider: Realtek Semiconductor Corp.
Driver Version: 6.00.0001.5898
Driver Date: 7/20/2009 06:52:38
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 1
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0
 
Sound device 1:
Description: Realtek HDMI Output (Realtek High Definition Audio)
Default Sound Playback: No
Default Voice Playback: No
Hardware ID: HDAUDIO\FUNC_01&VEN_10EC&DEV_0888&SUBSYS_10250158&REV_1002
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: RTKVHD64.sys
Provider: Realtek Semiconductor Corp.
Driver Version: 6.00.0001.5898
Driver Date: 7/20/2009 06:52:38
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 1
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0
 
Sound device 1:
Description: Realtek Digital Output(Optical) (Realtek High Definition Audio)
Default Sound Playback: No
Default Voice Playback: No
Hardware ID: HDAUDIO\FUNC_01&VEN_10EC&DEV_0888&SUBSYS_10250158&REV_1002
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: RTKVHD64.sys
Provider: Realtek Semiconductor Corp.
Driver Version: 6.00.0001.5898
Driver Date: 7/20/2009 06:52:38
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 1
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0
 


Debug Message:  *********END dxdiag info.*********
Debug Message:  WARNING: DirectX Acceleration is not enabled.
Debug Message:  Entering WinMain
Debug Message:  ******* Starting Game Shell *******
Debug Message:  Going Fullscreen
Debug Message:  Preparing to change display settings.
Debug Message:  No compatible devices found.
Debug Message:  InitializeDirect3D Failed.
Debug Message:  Now Fullscreen
Debug Message:  Shell initialization complete
Debug Message:  WM_CLOSE message received.
Debug Message:  GameUninitialize start

Go to My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2, open the file prefs.ini, and make the following changes:

Change
DisplayWidth=1024
DisplayHeight=768
ColorDepth=32
Fullscreen=1

To
DisplayWidth=(Your desktop width)
DisplayHeight=(Your desktop height)
ColorDepth=32
Fullscreen=0

Then save the file and start the game.

If that doesn't do it, I'm afraid there's not much more I can suggest as it'll be impossible to eliminate already-fixed bugs in that version if you cannot update. The 2006 1.0 retail version eventually had compatibility issues with Vista, let alone windows 7.

I've already tried doing that, it just changes the size of the black area on the screen...

Okay, So I looked on another section of the forums and it said that if someone has bought a used copy that they can purchase a new serial number at a reduced price in order to get updates.  Do you think it's worth it for me to do that? In other words, how much chance is there that the update will solve the issue?

It's impossible to say for certain, but it's likely. You can contact [email protected] if you wish to pursue that option.

We do offer refunds as well if the game won't run and support can't find a solution, so it can't really hurt to try.

In the past, I was able to play Galactic Civilizations II fine.  Well, I had to have the graphics turned way down, but at least it ran.  However, it had been a year or two since I played last and I decided to boot it up.  Now, all it gives me is a black screen.  It had been uninstalled, so this is a fresh install.

Here is the debug report.

Debug Message:  Version v1.5 last updated on: Thu Jan 11 13:39:19 2007

Debug Message:  GalCiv2 is activated.

Debug Message:  Checking DX Version.

Debug Message:  *********DXDiag info follows.*********

System Info

Time: 12/15/2010, 13:51:02

DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)

Machine Name: BL-RH-YOUNGAJ

Operating System: Windows XP Home Edition (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 3 (2600.xpsp_sp3_gdr.100427-1636)

Languages: English (Regional Setting: English)

System Manufacturer: Hewlett-Packard

System Model: HP Compaq dc7600 Small Form Factor

BIOS: Default System BIOS

Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 3.20GHz (2 CPUs)

Physical Memory: 3320MB RAM

Page File: 566MB used, 4102MB available

Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS

Display Info

Display device 1:

Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1

Card Name: Intel(R) 82945G Express Chipset Family

Manufacturer: Intel Corporation

Chip Type: Intel(R) 82945G Express Chipset Family

DAC Type: Internal

Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_2772&SUBSYS_3011103C&REV_02

Display Memory: n/a

Current Display Mode: 1024 x 768 (32 bit) (60Hz)

Monitor Name: Plug and Play Monitor

Monitor Max Resolution: 1600,1200

Driver Name: ialmrnt5.dll

Driver Version: 6.14.0010.4396

Driver Date: 9/20/2005 09:52:38

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_0260&SUBSYS_103C3011&REV_1004

Manufacturer ID: 1

Product ID: 100

Driver Name: RtkHDAud.sys

Provider: Realtek Semiconductor Corp.

Driver Version: 5.10.0000.5645

Driver Date: 6/17/2008 15:49:22

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:  No compatible devices found.

Is that last line saying that my monitor/graphics card is incompatible with GalCiv2?  I am not particularly hardware-savvy and I am not sure I understand.

EDIT: Wow, my debug file copied into a terrible format here, fixed now, though.