I received DS2 as a gift, the install went fine, but the game refuses to launch - all I get is a quick blip of the hourglass, then nothing - I checked the process list, DS2 does not even launch. Via the MS "knowledgebase" for the game, I have narrowed it down to a CD verifcation problem as there is no "FIRSTRUN" key in my Dungeon Siege II folder. I have tried everything in their solution list, updating safedisc etc, I run regular virus and spyware scans, so I doubt it is that (perhaps I should run another just in case) physically, the discs are fine, and it's not a GFX error, as I tried a no-cd crack, and the game ran fine (unfortunately, no MP with no-cd crack). Physically, the discs look flawless, and other people have had similar problems. I tried installing in Safe mode, installing from and to alternate drives, disabling norton, nothing seems to work, and I scanned the registry for virtual drive related entries, nothing. I sent MS support a detailed e-mail, but I don't expect get much back other than "thank you for using MS tech support" or some other crap, as I imagine their tech support merely involves a quick scan of the knowledgebase. I have installed and played other recent games with no problems, so I don't think it's a drive firmware issue. My motherboard/sound etc drivers are up to date. A solution to this issue would be GREATLY appreciated. It's sad that you have to download a no-cd crack to even play a legit copy of a game.
My specs:
HP a220n computer
AMD Athlon XP 2600+
1 Gig PC 2700 DDR RAM
ATI Radeon X850 Pro 256MB AGP video card
Onboard "Soundstorm" 3D audio chipset
120GB 5400 RPM Seagate HD (primary)
160GB 7200 RPM Western Digital HD (secondary)
JLMS DVD-ROM drive
Mad Dog Multimedia 16X DL DVD burner
Windows XP Home (Service Pack 2)
Thanks in advance for any help
[This message has been edited by MasterRyu (edited 05-02-2006 @ 09:09 PM).]