Windows Vista: Installing SH3 and Patching 1.4b

[gdogghenrikson]

Okay not working.

Ive been away for some time now and i just bought a new HP Firebird comp! I was so excited to reinstall SH3 and tried following the rules posted above but to no avail. I cant even run SH3 directly after install. this is wat comes up. Its the protection system error stating "This application can be launched with a release of Microsoft Windows 95 OSR. 1/98/ME NT 4.0/2000/XP Server 2003 only."

Ive downloaded Starforce update but it does not detect anything. I also tried installing on my c/drive rather than program files but it also failed. Im not too computer savvvy, so simple english would be nice! THANKS!!!!

yea, same here

[irish1958]

When all else fails, the best course is to buy a new DVD of the game, patched to 1.4b and starforce free. I go for $9.99
It also does not require the DVD to be in the drive for the game to operate.

[Phoenix The Taffer]

Newer version of SH3 come pre-patched. Check your Main Menu screen in the game, you'll probably see a 1.4 in the bottom right corner of the screen. If it reads 1.4 then you have the latest & last patch: 1.4b.



Yeah I have 1.4 showing up inside the game, so that's pretty much what I thought based on an ubi.com post located here:

http://forums.ubi.com/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/2881085392/m/7261080164

I recently bought the SH2/SH3 Encore DVD combo version from Newegg (edited out link -- didnt realize it was taboo)

Find this file (C:\Program Files\Ubisoft\SilentHunterIII\data\Menu\en_help.tx t: unknown version.) in your install and delete it; then the patch will run.

That sounds a bit dangerous for my situation. As you can see above I probably have the $9.99 game that you mentioned in your last post, irish. I'm guessing I already have 1.4b on the DVD, based on what I see inside game (1.4) and the file version comes out to 1.4.0.1 in File Properties.
http://img29.imageshack.us/img29/8739/1401w.jpg

Image of error:
http://img44.imageshack.us/img44/5535/errorahf.jpg

[trojanfoe]

I have SH3 working with Windows 7 x64...

I've spent several hours trying to get SH3 to work under Windows 7 x64 (Ultimate - build 7100). I'm not sure which version of the DVD I have; I bought it in June 2006 in the UK. It has the serial number on the disk, rather than the back of the manual, but installation hasn't asked for it.

I have been getting a getting a crash in msvcr71.dll right after the red progress bar completed and before the main menu.

I have tried both updating and removing the starforce drivers, but the programs tell me no SF drivers are installed.

Anyway this is what I did:

1) Install the game by running setup.exe on the DVD normally (not as admin). I installed into D:\Games\SilentHunterIII; not sure if that's significant. I told it to also install the 'Direct X 9 codecs', which previously I had not; also not sure if that was significant. I cancelled when it was time to install the ubisoft updater utility (I forget its name now).

2) Install silent_hunter_3_dvd_1.4b_emea.exe as admin (right click > Run as Administrator). If you don't run as admin you will get the common complaint about de_menu.txt (and en_menu.txt) being an unknown version.

3) Install the No-CD patch. I saved the 5 files it replaced to a sub-folder of SH3, so I could restore in case I needed to.

4) Ran the game as admin. I have exited the game and I can also run it as 'me' (not admin) as well :yep:

5) Also: No need to use 'compatibility mode' on the shortcut or program properties - run it straight and not as admin.

I hope this helps some others with similar systems and problems!

Cheers,
Andy

[Otto Von Larnie]

Wolfen U-64,

To answer your questions and VonKnopfke knows that is not a joke and can be resolved, yes, I did contact Ubisoft by phone. Yes, they sent the files directly to me. As I said, they did not guarantee that would resolve my problem. They said that is the solution for Windows XP 64 bit systems. I have Windows Vista 64 bit. I used to have the same situation that VonKnopfke has now. I posted a message, no help. I did a research and found solutions and applied them, no help. I contacted StarForce people and they told me that the game maker is the one to solve that. I had the same situation with Lock on, an update to the game Lock 1.1 and patch on the website solved my problem. However, I could not find a solution that worked for SH3. I knew that SH3 files needed to be updated by either patch or other means. That why I contacted Ubisoft to see they can produce another patch as they did with Lock on. I hope that helps VonKnopfke. I am glad you resolved your problem. It looked It was not the same problem VonKnopfke and I did have.

Medico

I am in the same boat at the moment, I played SH3 since release and had scores of MODS etc. got a brand new PC, top of the line all the latest tech set me back £3,200 and it wont play SH3!!!! I am suffering with Major Withdrawl symptoms and would really like to feed my addiction! can you give me a name for the file so that I know exactly what to ask for? thanks

[trojanfoe]

I have it working with Windows 7 x64 without any special files from Ubisoft, so I'm guessing it will also work with Vista x64 (perhaps a big assumption). See my earlier post (3 posts up from this one).

Cheers,
Andy

[Otto Von Larnie]

I have it working with Windows 7 x64 without any special files from Ubisoft, so I'm guessing it will also work with Vista x64 (perhaps a big assumption). See my earlier post (3 posts up from this one).

Cheers,
Andy

I cant even run SH3! before the game even begins to load It comes up with the disk checking thing and then thats it! error message saying it is only compatible with certain OS's! my previous quote was made in response to someone who described my problem to the last word and so I believe that to be the best fix!

thanks any way!

PS unrelated I know but where to get the complete download for GWX3 gold I followed the link on the GWX site and... no Dice!

[trojanfoe]

I cant even run SH3! before the game even begins to load It comes up with the disk checking thing and then thats it! error message saying it is only compatible with certain OS's! my previous quote was made in response to someone who described my problem to the last word and so I believe that to be the best fix!

thanks any way!

PS unrelated I know but where to get the complete download for GWX3 gold I followed the link on the GWX site and... no Dice!

I couldn't even run SH3 either; follow what I did and it will work, I'm sure. The problem with the "Protection System" you mention can only be resolved by using the No-CD Patch (available from a website I'm sure the forum rules prohibit me from referencing).

WRT GWX 3.0; I downloaded it via torrent - I can't remember where I got it from, but it's in somone's signature on this site...

[Fincuan]

GWX 3.0; I downloaded it via torrent
:dead:

and?

[Otto Von Larnie]

ok tried following your suggested steps today and yesterday, and still no luck! as I said before the original quote was made in reference to my exact problem down to the last detail! I have contacted Ubi and hopefully they send me the file, If they do I will try to host it somewhere so that it can then be easily downloaded by future users! thanks for advice tho!

I have found torrents but they all come in parts, I was looking for 1 file like that on the GWX team site! I will Keep searching!

AGAIN UNRELATED BUT I saw SH4 in a shop today but didnt have any money on me, any verdicts? From what I've read I don't think it will be as good as SH3!

[Otto Von Larnie]

I, being a heavy torrenter myself, warn you not to speak of torrents on this site

I learned the hard"er" way :dead:

meaning what?... I know well enough not post addys or anything on the boards but still!

and how hard"er" was it? :o

[Fincuan]

I learned that mentioning that will get you banned :arrgh!:

Mentioning GWX-torrent, which was and probably still is one of the official ways of distributing the mod?

[Otto Von Larnie]

just found a good one! ...downloading! that way when I get SH3 set again I will be good to go straight away!

[Von Talon]

I reinstalled SH3, then used the update tool and then run SH3. It asked the Cd-code and then it worked.

I have Vista laptop, and SH3 works correctly, but when I am at external views, bridge or commandroom, I get ony 3 FPS. In navigation map, even if I have 1024x TC, it gives about 60 FPS.

Thank god I still have my Windows XP :rock:

[trojanfoe]

Well then, if it was released by the makers on torrent, fine with the rules :rock:

GWX is freeware so it doesn't really matter how you get it. For the convenience of others, here is the link to the torrent file I used:

http://www.filefront.com/12764641/GWX3.0-torrent.torrent

Cheers,
Andy

[trojanfoe]

I reinstalled SH3, then used the update tool and then run SH3. It asked the Cd-code and then it worked.

I have Vista laptop, and SH3 works correctly, but when I am at external views, bridge or commandroom, I get ony 3 FPS. In navigation map, even if I have 1024x TC, it gives about 60 FPS.

Thank god I still have my Windows XP :rock:

What graphics chip do you have in the laptop and have you installed the latest drivers etc.? How does it perform with other games?

Even though Vista is much hated and maligned, it won't cause framerate drops of 90+% (say 30 fps to 3 fps) - something else is wrong and you will have similar problems with Windows XP.

Cheers,
Andy

[trojanfoe]

ok tried following your suggested steps today and yesterday, and still no luck!

OK - it's frustrating - I know, but tell me what happens please.

[Von Talon]

If I "watch" water or ues external camera underwater, the game works properly, 20-30 FPS! But if I watch the sky or the horizon, the game starts to lagg 2-3 FPS.

Btw, anyone know how to zoom in periscope, deck gun or UZI? I have laptop and it haven't that funny rorrel between the mouse buttons?

[irish1958]

Hi,
Your frame drop is because something is eating up your CPU/memory/video card. It could be a mod. Or it could be a video card problem in laptops due to shared memory.
First thing I would due is run SHIII v1.4b and see if your frame rate is good. If you have this problem with the vanilla game, you don't have enough power.
To zoom in, use the tab key; to zoom out, use SetKeys to activate the zoom out command (I use CTRL+tab)
http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/downloads.php?do=file&id=1016
Since you have a laptop, SetKeys will allow you to program a lot of keys to avoid using the function keys

[Brewtality]

Just wanna mention that installation on Windows 7 is basically as Installing on Win XP.
Regular in other words.

Win 7 is in many ways more like XP than Vista, contrary to popular belief.

[U2222]

ARGH!!! :arrgh!:

Okay, so got the steam version to work, however there seems to be an issue with the steam version and Win7, one that likely cant be fixed...:cry:

It does not support widescreen, something to do with DX11 apparently...

This is extremely frustrating, I have not had any problems getting any "older" games to run on Win7. Looks like I either have to go back to WinXP or hang up my SH3 hat... which would be quite sad...:down:

I tried loading SH3 star force disk onto vista 64 six months ago - no joy.
So now I want to try again - just a couple of questions...
I've trawled through these posts but, is there a sure and tested method of getting my star force disc to install / run on vista 64?

I've thought about trying a star force free download from Steam.
Has anybody else got this method to work on visa 64?
Can the Steam install be modded - GWX etc?
Thanks for any advice
U2222

[irish1958]

I suggest you forget about starforce; get the new, patched to 1.4b, starforce free DVD for $9.99 and install it outside of your program files.

[U2222]

I suggest you forget about starforce; get the new, patched to 1.4b, starforce free DVD for $9.99 and install it outside of your program files.

Many thanks for the advice.
I bought a copy (new) from Amazon UK last week and it turned up with star force loaded - old stock or what! :damn:
There appears to be no way when ordering on line to ensure the copy is new version / 1.4b patched.
Does the new copy have any identification on the cover etc to distinguish it from the star force version?
Regards
U2222

[cawimmer430]

After reading through most of the comments and complaints here, I must say that I am seriously depressed.

My Acer Aspire laptop had a HD failure and I lost everything including my career in SH3. This computer was using Windows Vista 32bit.

Now I have a new computer (HP Pavilion) with Windows Vista 64bit and needless to say everything I've tried with SH3 doesn't seem to work.


The interesting thing is that SH3 wouldn't work on my older Acer either at first try. Then I installed a game called Sniper Elite - which wouldn't work either. However, Sniper Elite, being somehow connected to Star Force, brought me to the website which allowed to download the software I needed to make this game work on my computer. After that I figured I'd give SH3 another try and to my amazement it worked!

Now, I did the exact same thing on my new HP Pavilion - Sniper Elite works just fine - but SH3 doesn't. I've installed SH3 and then wanted to play it and I keep a getting message that this game won't function because it requires Windows 95/98/ME, NT, 2000 or XP to properly run. I've tried different compatibilities and administrator functions and nothing works.


I'm seriously annoyed and enraged about this. Why don't these guys release a patch for Windows Vista 64bit? How hard can that be? :damn:

And while they're at it how about a proper patch that fixes this god damn stupid save game issue in SH3. :damn:

[cawimmer430]

I have SH3 working with Windows 7 x64...

I've spent several hours trying to get SH3 to work under Windows 7 x64 (Ultimate - build 7100). I'm not sure which version of the DVD I have; I bought it in June 2006 in the UK. It has the serial number on the disk, rather than the back of the manual, but installation hasn't asked for it.

I have been getting a getting a crash in msvcr71.dll right after the red progress bar completed and before the main menu.

I have tried both updating and removing the starforce drivers, but the programs tell me no SF drivers are installed.

Anyway this is what I did:

1) Install the game by running setup.exe on the DVD normally (not as admin). I installed into D:\Games\SilentHunterIII; not sure if that's significant. I told it to also install the 'Direct X 9 codecs', which previously I had not; also not sure if that was significant. I cancelled when it was time to install the ubisoft updater utility (I forget its name now).

2) Install silent_hunter_3_dvd_1.4b_emea.exe as admin (right click > Run as Administrator). If you don't run as admin you will get the common complaint about de_menu.txt (and en_menu.txt) being an unknown version.

3) Install the No-CD patch. I saved the 5 files it replaced to a sub-folder of SH3, so I could restore in case I needed to.

4) Ran the game as admin. I have exited the game and I can also run it as 'me' (not admin) as well :yep:

5) Also: No need to use 'compatibility mode' on the shortcut or program properties - run it straight and not as admin.

I hope this helps some others with similar systems and problems!

Cheers,
Andy


I just followed these instructions to the letter. The game won't work on my computer with Vista 64bit.

I still keep getting the message that it requires Windows 95/98/ME, NT, 2000 or XP to properly run. :down:


Someone please stop me from committing suicide! :wah:

[cawimmer430]

Hi all
After a week and a half of struggle I have SHIII finally working. The game works just fine on Vista 64-bit with no problems. Thanks for all your guys help.

Jan

How did you get it to work? I really need some help here. I'm on the verge of killing somebody! :timeout:

[U2222]

Sometimes you just have to face the facts.
It appears that without a star force free version you cannot load on vista 64.
You could try Steam which is star force free but there are apparently some issues there as well.
I gave up and loaded it on another pc with XP32.
Not my preferred choice but at least I'm at sea again.
Don't worry, only another 6 months until Vista 64 compatable SHV!!!

[cawimmer430]

Sometimes you just have to face the facts.
It appears that without a star force free version you cannot load on vista 64.
I gave up and loaded it on another pc with XP32.
Not my preferred choice but at least I'm at sea again.
Don't worry, only another 6 months until Vista 64 compatable SHV!!!

:wah:

SH V looks great, but SH III has charms of its own.


Anyone else here feel that Ubisoft has been really unhelpful regarding SH3? No patch to fix that unreliable save game issue, no patch for Windows Vista 64 etc. :damn:

[trojanfoe]

:wah:

SH V looks great, but SH III has charms of its own.


Anyone else here feel that Ubisoft has been really unhelpful regarding SH3? No patch to fix that unreliable save game issue, no patch for Windows Vista 64 etc. :damn:

Did you try the 'Starforce Free' version? Either using a No-CD patch or getting the Steam version? Also newer DVD versions come without protection, but there seems no reliable way of knowing you are getting one...

I have SH3 and SH4 working under Windows 7 x64 - it's certainly possible.

[U2222]

I agree.
With the SH3 'cult' following (250 viewing SH3 forums on subsim as I write), one would think Ubisoft would extend the game life to embrace newer OS.
I mean, Vista 64 is now 3 years old and was on the cards when SH3 was first released.
So by now many gamers out there will have upgraded their equipment and run on Vista 64.

I am still uncertain if the SF free version is available in UK, or if this is limited to the US.
Certainly my Amazon purchase the other week of another new copy was a waste of time.

[cawimmer430]

Did you try the 'Starforce Free' version? Either using a No-CD patch or getting the Steam version? Also newer DVD versions come without protection, but there seems no reliable way of knowing you are getting one...

I have SH3 and SH4 working under Windows 7 x64 - it's certainly possible.

I might have to take the advice here and order the SH2-SH3 combo with the patched 1.4b version...if it's under $ 10.00 it's well worth ordering...

Here's my issue though. I have a functioning Star Force driver for Sniper Elite. Without this driver the game won't run on my new computer (or my older computer [Vista 32]). After I installed the SF driver on my old Vista 32 laptop SH3 worked. Here, on this new Vista 64, it doesn't. I'm at a loss of what to do. Aside from that I can't start the game because of the "You need Windows 95/98/ME etc." message. :wah:

[U2222]

That's the point, Vista 32 and Win 7 seem to be ok (correct me if I'm wrong)
It's loading onto Vista 64 that causes the problem
Solution - buy pre patched 1.4 and star force free if you can get one, or download via steam.
Are there any issues with steam downloading?
If anybody has a workaround for vista 64 I would be grateful.

[trojanfoe]

I might have to take the advice here and order the SH2-SH3 combo with the patched 1.4b version...if it's under $ 10.00 it's well worth ordering...

Here's my issue though. I have a functioning Star Force driver for Sniper Elite. Without this driver the game won't run on my new computer (or my older computer [Vista 32]). After I installed the SF driver on my old Vista 32 laptop SH3 worked. Here, on this new Vista 64, it doesn't. I'm at a loss of what to do. Aside from that I can't start the game because of the "You need Windows 95/98/ME etc." message. :wah:

You'd have to go the whole 'No-CD patch' for all starforce games I guess. This is not illegal if you own the games.

[nerox]

greetings.im a new member of this lovely site. u r the true sim rockers.

im posting this mes.because im havin troubles with sh3 cant play it on my vista 64.

i bought my own game disc and i can play it on xp even on my laptop. but it doesnt work properly on vista64.


i tried every single patch from the web but it just doesnt work. it just says ''unknown version''i cant update my game. besides my mission editor doesnt work. when i double click on my editor, it just gives the classic error message.

i think if anyone shares his/her mission editor with its dll. with me ,they might work on my vista64.

what do u guyz think?
it would be great to share your ideas with me.

thanks

[cawimmer430]

That's the point, Vista 32 and Win 7 seem to be ok (correct me if I'm wrong)
It's loading onto Vista 64 that causes the problem
Solution - buy pre patched 1.4 and star force free if you can get one, or download via steam.
Are there any issues with steam downloading?
If anybody has a workaround for vista 64 I would be grateful.

Do you know where I could download this new version of Star Force? The one on my computer right now doesn't seem to do jack... :wah:



You'd have to go the whole 'No-CD patch' for all starforce games I guess. This is not illegal if you own the games.

I actually downloaded the no CD patch (I do own a legal copy of the game) yesterday and the game still wouldn't work. I keep getting the usual "this game requires Windows 95/98/ME etc..." to run crap even after installing and uninstalling the game over and over again using different ideas presented in this thread. Nothing worked.

I'm at the point of screaming. :damn:





ALSO, does anyone else experience this when playing Silent Hunter III? When the game ran on my old laptop with Vista 32, my computer would just promptly shut down after about an hour or two of gaming - overheating issues. It's really frustrating that this crap keeps happening, especially since I have a well ventilated room.

A few weeks ago, when my old computer was still working, I actually played SH3 with the windows fully open - and ice cold air entered the room. I had to sit at my desk in a thick jacket and pants and heavy socks just to keep warm. And my POS computer still overheated and shut down as I played SH3. After that, it wouldn't start anymore and I eventually found out that my HD was busted. Thanks a lot SH3. :damn:

How the hell can a modern laptop, that should have no issues at all running SH3, keep overheating all the time when running this game!? This game supposedly wasn't even bringing the machine to its limits... This happened about seven times...

[trojanfoe]

Do you know where I could download this new version of Star Force? The one on my computer right now doesn't seem to do jack... :wah:


http://www.star-force.com/support/users/



I actually downloaded the no CD patch (I do own a legal copy of the game) yesterday and the game still wouldn't work. I keep getting the usual "this game requires Windows 95/98/ME etc..." to run crap even after installing and uninstalling the game over and over again using different ideas presented in this thread. Nothing worked.


That's very strange - that dialog box is part of the protection so I don't think you are installing it correctly. If you look at the no-cd .rar file, it replaces the .exe and some .dll files. I would copy those (original) files into a sub-folder, in case you need them when installing a further game patch - unlikely, but anyway, and then unpack the no-cd patch into the SH3 directory.


ALSO, does anyone else experience this when playing Silent Hunter III? When the game ran on my old laptop with Vista 32, my computer would just promptly shut down after about an hour or two of gaming - overheating issues. It's really frustrating that this crap keeps happening, especially since I have a well ventilated room.

A few weeks ago, when my old computer was still working, I actually played SH3 with the windows fully open - and ice cold air entered the room. I had to sit at my desk in a thick jacket and pants and heavy socks just to keep warm. And my POS computer still overheated and shut down as I played SH3. After that, it wouldn't start anymore and I eventually found out that my HD was busted. Thanks a lot SH3. :damn:

How the hell can a modern laptop, that should have no issues at all running SH3, keep overheating all the time when running this game!? This game supposedly wasn't even bringing the machine to its limits... This happened about seven times...

This is a hardware issue, not a problem with SH3. SH3 is pretty 'light' when it comes to stretching the CPU/GPU so you would also have problems with any 3D game I reckon. I recently returned my step-daughters Dell laptop under warranty due to overheating/shutdown problems (during World of Warcraft sessions) and it was repaired free of charge - a design flaw with the motherboard. You might want to check your warranty too.

[U2222]

cawimmer430
If it's the starforce downloads you want then follow trojanfoe's advice.

If it's a starforce free SH3 full game download then type 'steam' into google and take it from there.
I believe there may be a small issue with this download covered by another thread.

There is a starforce free edition of the game available from the Subsim US store. Unfortunately this is not available through Subsim's UK store link.
And the best of luck!
U2222

[FJ88]

So if I have the old DVD version of the game when it was first released I can forget about getting SH3 to work on Vista 64?

[trojanfoe]

So if I have the old DVD version of the game when it was first released I can forget about getting SH3 to work on Vista 64?

:damn:

[U2222]

So if I have the old DVD version of the game when it was first released I can forget about getting SH3 to work on Vista 64?

In my opinion that is a sad fact.
I gave up all together and went back to running it on an xp machine.

[Wolfehunter]

Well I haven't use XP in years. Going back isn't and option. Win7 or vista x64 doen't work with starforce...

SH3 alone does work.. Starforce is blocking access.. I've even check SF site.

http://www.star-force.com/support/users/windows7/

There are some help there but it don't work. They're drivers only support win7 beta. Not RC-1 or RTM. So your out of luck.

Other option is doing the alt method but I won't say that here. :03:

To buy SH3 again? Isn't going to happen! Sorry I already payed for the game. :nope:

So I'll leave it up to you honest owners what to do to fix your game.. :D

If you need help send me a PM... :salute:

[FJ88]

Some good news. I can confirm that the Steam version of the SH III works perfectly on a Vista 64 system. I did not need to do any tweaks or special settings in order to get it to work either. It worked from the moment it finished downloading.
Now I just need to download the massive GWX files and SH Commander and I will be all set.

So if there is anyone out there who like me has 64 bit Vista and was upset that you could not get your old DVD version to work, there is at least one answer.
It means buying the game again, but the price worked out to be around $10 USD which is pretty much a drop in the bucket for how much I get out of the game.

I wonder what the SH IV situation is? I never played it much since out of the box the game was boring and the mod community seemed to be slow to develop. Are there any mods of GWX quality for SH IV?

[U2222]

That's good to hear FJ88
Please let me know how you get on with GWX3 with this

[FJ88]

That's good to hear FJ88
Please let me know how you get on with GWX3 with this

It will be awhile between SHIII and GWX it is about 3 GB worth of downloading.

[Hotti]

Okay.. Today I watched one episode of a program called "Atlantic Convoys" or smth like that and that made me want to play SH3 again. So I dig up my old SH3 disc, fire it up, some minor problems with install..

a) I'm using Windows 7 x64 Professional (RTM release version, NOT RC or beta) and first trouble was that every time I wanted to change install dir it would crash.. -> Solved this by running setup.exe from the disc manually with XP SP2 compatibilty mode. The game installed fine..

b) Next I try to launch the game for one before patching to 1.4b to get starforce crap to install.. I get the error that my OS is not supported. I find myself here, becuse I knew that this is THE place for SH3 community and I would certainly get the help I need from here. So I start reading this thread and quite quickly realize that the problem is with SF and x64 version of my OS.

c) took me 15 minutes to find myself in star-force.com and this page:

http://www.star-force.com/support/users/group3.php

scroll down to the x64 OS support part. I checked the version of SF in my install folder: 3.04.72 (I have the original UBI release disc). So SF themself say it will NEVER WORK ON x64! Unless UBI will release some fixed files to us with a newer sh3.dll (thats the starforce .dll file) or a official no-cd patch YOU WILL NEVER (legally) GET (your original) SH3 WORKING ON x64 OS's! (read up more to get the ifs)

So all of you who are saying you got it working in Vista are either using 32bit version (as you can see from the link I posted the earlier versions are working with 32bit OS) OR bought a new version from D2D, Steam or the newer disc versions. But in my opinion, even though I love SH3 and SH4 THIS IS WRONG to make us buy a game AGAIN just to play nowadays! There was one guy who said that he'd gotten some files from Ubi support that enabled him to play with 64bit os, which were meant for XP x64. WHY DOESNT UBI RELEASE THESE FILES PUBLICALLY?!?! Because they are greedy to the point that is SICK! They dont care about having the customers needs or wants fulfilled. All they care about is how to screw more money out from you!

So to sum it up on HOW TO MAKE IT WORK on Windows 7 x64 (aka 64bit):

IF and only if you are using a 64bit OS AND have the original SH3 WITH SF protection your only option is to use no-cd patch which you can find from google.

a) run setup.exe from the disc manually and use XP SP2 Compatibility mode to change the install directory (like posted here before, installing outside program files is your best choice to avoid problems later).

b) after the game has installed, install 1.4b patch

c) get the no-cd patch (google)

d) install all the rest you want to add to your game (GWX, SH3CMDR etc)

e) enjoy your game! :)

Sorry about the ranting but stuff like this makes me mad. Thank you Ubisoft for making me support piracy (by downloading the no-cd patch), a thing I really dont want to do, but you leave me with no choice.

[trojanfoe]

Okay.. Today I watched one episode of a program called "Atlantic Convoys" or smth like that and that made me want to play SH3 again. So I dig up my old SH3 disc, fire it up, some minor problems with install..

a) I'm using Windows 7 x64 Professional (RTM release version, NOT RC or beta) and first trouble was that every time I wanted to change install dir it would crash.. -> Solved this by running setup.exe from the disc manually with XP SP2 compatibilty mode. The game installed fine..

b) Next I try to launch the game for one before patching to 1.4b to get starforce crap to install.. I get the error that my OS is not supported. I find myself here, becuse I knew that this is THE place for SH3 community and I would certainly get the help I need from here. So I start reading this thread and quite quickly realize that the problem is with SF and x64 version of my OS.

c) took me 15 minutes to find myself in star-force.com and this page:

http://www.star-force.com/support/users/group3.php

scroll down to the x64 OS support part. I checked the version of SF in my install folder: 3.04.72 (I have the original UBI release disc). So SF themself say it will NEVER WORK ON x64! Unless UBI will release some fixed files to us with a newer sh3.dll (thats the starforce .dll file) or a official no-cd patch YOU WILL NEVER (legally) GET (your original) SH3 WORKING ON x64 OS's! (read up more to get the ifs)

So all of you who are saying you got it working in Vista are either using 32bit version (as you can see from the link I posted the earlier versions are working with 32bit OS) OR bought a new version from D2D, Steam or the newer disc versions. But in my opinion, even though I love SH3 and SH4 THIS IS WRONG to make us buy a game AGAIN just to play nowadays! There was one guy who said that he'd gotten some files from Ubi support that enabled him to play with 64bit os, which were meant for XP x64. WHY DOESNT UBI RELEASE THESE FILES PUBLICALLY?!?! Because they are greedy to the point that is SICK! They dont care about having the customers needs or wants fulfilled. All they care about is how to screw more money out from you!

So to sum it up on HOW TO MAKE IT WORK on Windows 7 x64 (aka 64bit):

IF and only if you are using a 64bit OS AND have the original SH3 WITH SF protection your only option is to use no-cd patch which you can find from google.

a) run setup.exe from the disc manually and use XP SP2 Compatibility mode to change the install directory (like posted here before, installing outside program files is your best choice to avoid problems later).

b) after the game has installed, install 1.4b patch

c) get the no-cd patch (google)

d) install all the rest you want to add to your game (GWX, SH3CMDR etc)

e) enjoy your game! :)

Sorry about the ranting but stuff like this makes me mad. Thank you Ubisoft for making me support piracy (by downloading the no-cd patch), a thing I really dont want to do, but you leave me with no choice.


Already posted (link (http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showpost.php?p=1163768&postcount=254)).

Also, it's not piracy if you own the game.

[Hotti]

Already posted (link (http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showpost.php?p=1163768&postcount=254)).

Also, it's not piracy if you own the game.

I didnt say its piracy, I said its supporting piracy. And even though I own the game, I am not permitted to bypass the DRM etc. in my country. There was a case about this a while back and the court found the person who made the bypass guilty of copyright infringment. Also, as stated, Ubi seems to have a "fix" for 64bit XP which probably would also allow the game working on Vista and 7. Why dont they release this? Because then you poor fellas wouldnt have to buy the SF free version and encourage UBI to maybe do the same things later too with some other game!

Also your post suggests that you went for the no-cd patch straight away since there is some irregularity about your post. First, you cannot get past the "Error: your OS is not supported" -error to get to the crash in msvcr71.dll unless you've been trying different cracks in the first place. Also the reason its not asking for your cd-key is that the key is used only with the SF protection, so you have to have it installed first to use they key. Also your post is the typical "This is how _I_ did it" without any explanation to why or how. Do not get me wrong though, I'm not saying youre wrong or anything, I'm just saying for anyone who is still looking for any option other than using a no-cd patch or buying a new version that there is NO hope without Ubisoft help.

Secondly, your post and all others are simply speculating on the issues, one says Vista works, the other says Vista doesnt work etc. I bring you hard fact from SF itself; SF will not work on x64 systems with such old version of itself. Lucky for you 32bit users it is just "new" enough to have support with the driver update. And from what I've experienced, what works in Vista works in 7 too.

And third; I do not WANT to use the no-cd patch, since I never fully trust that they do a 100% job. And I do NOT want to support piracy and their affiliates by having to visit a site where I can find the no-cd. ONLY because the company that made the game are too GREEDY to give a damn and too LAZY to do the "free re-protection for versions 3.07.xxx and earlier"!!!!

I petition all you who allready own the original version to email Ubisoft to provide us with either an official no-cd patch OR an updated version of SF protection.

!!!DO NOT SUPPORT UBISOFT GREED BY PURCHASING A SECOND COPY!!!
Email them instead to get off their lazy fat ass to FIX IT! The game is only 5 years old for gods sake!

[trojanfoe]

I didnt say its piracy, I said its supporting piracy. And even though I own the game, I am not permitted to bypass the DRM etc. in my country. There was a case about this a while back and the court found the person who made the bypass guilty of copyright infringment.

Which country is that? Also if you didn't 'make' the no-CD patch, just applied it; perhaps the court would have a different outlook on your behaviour.

Also, as stated, Ubi seems to have a "fix" for 64bit XP which probably would also allow the game working on Vista and 7. Why dont they release this? Because then you poor fellas wouldnt have to buy the SF free version and encourage UBI to maybe do the same things later too with some other game!


I agree - I don't know why they don't release this fix - not sure there is anything other than laziness/lack of care involved though - I doubt they do it on purpose to make us re-buy the game. How long would you expect them to support a game, especially one which wasn't a 'best seller' ?


Also your post suggests that you went for the no-cd patch straight away since there is some irregularity about your post. First, you cannot get past the "Error: your OS is not supported" -error to get to the crash in msvcr71.dll unless you've been trying different cracks in the first place.


That's untrue - I tried using the 'official' patches - and the got 'OS is not support error' (from Starforce) and I then I tried the no-CD patch. The msvcrt71.dll problem was a badly installed 1.4b patch, which my post tells you how to solve. I only ever tried one no-CD patch and it was the one I finally got it working with.


Also the reason its not asking for your cd-key is that the key is used only with the SF protection, so you have to have it installed first to use they key.


Indeed - I never got that far with the official patches.


Also your post is the typical "This is how _I_ did it" without any explanation to why or how.


Your post is almost identical to mine, except it lacks much of the detail! I also tried the Starforce update, as you did, and found it not to work.


Do not get me wrong though, I'm not saying youre wrong or anything, I'm just saying for anyone who is still looking for any option other than using a no-cd patch or buying a new version that there is NO hope without Ubisoft help.


That's already been discussed in this thread.


Secondly, your post and all others are simply speculating on the issues, one says Vista works, the other says Vista doesnt work etc. I bring you hard fact from SF itself; SF will not work on x64 systems with such old version of itself. Lucky for you 32bit users it is just "new" enough to have support with the driver update. And from what I've experienced, what works in Vista works in 7 too.


I don't speculate about anything; I have posted what I have tried and what has worked. I never mention Vista - I have had Windows 7 installed for months. Your post is no different to any other in this thread, and brings no hard facts not already known.


And third; I do not WANT to use the no-cd patch, since I never fully trust that they do a 100% job. And I do NOT want to support piracy and their affiliates by having to visit a site where I can find the no-cd. ONLY because the company that made the game are too GREEDY to give a damn and too LAZY to do the "free re-protection for versions 3.07.xxx and earlier"!!!!


Who does want to support piracy - but as you say you have to do what you have to do.


I petition all you who allready own the original version to email Ubisoft to provide us with either an official no-cd patch OR an updated version of SF protection.

!!!DO NOT SUPPORT UBISOFT GREED BY PURCHASING A SECOND COPY!!!
Email them instead to get off their lazy fat ass to FIX IT! The game is only 5 years old for gods sake!

I think you should calm down a bit and stop the ranting and accusation (both of Ubisoft and of members of this forum) - it's unwarranted and makes you sound like a bit of a lunatic.

[Wolfehunter]

SH3 works in any OS. Starforce doesn't it blocks it on purpose.

Starforce is the one who is limiting SH3 from working... The tactic to force people to spend money on a game they already own.. again.

Sorry that doesn't work for me.

They do that in the music industry too. At least the quality of the sounds improved...

BUT PC world the game is the old same... Why should I have to pay again?

This is why I like egosoft. they remove there protection over time after they have made a decent profit... Ubisoft could easily update there starforce with a patch or remove it. But they don't' care.

Emailing them won't change nothing...

Not in every country its illegal to alter what you own Hotti.

I don't support piracy.. I also don't support greedy companies... :03:

[cawimmer430]

http://www.star-force.com/support/users/




That's very strange - that dialog box is part of the protection so I don't think you are installing it correctly. If you look at the no-cd .rar file, it replaces the .exe and some .dll files. I would copy those (original) files into a sub-folder, in case you need them when installing a further game patch - unlikely, but anyway, and then unpack the no-cd patch into the SH3 directory.



This is a hardware issue, not a problem with SH3. SH3 is pretty 'light' when it comes to stretching the CPU/GPU so you would also have problems with any 3D game I reckon. I recently returned my step-daughters Dell laptop under warranty due to overheating/shutdown problems (during World of Warcraft sessions) and it was repaired free of charge - a design flaw with the motherboard. You might want to check your warranty too.

Great post and info. Many thanks. :yeah:

[cawimmer430]

cawimmer430
If it's the starforce downloads you want then follow trojanfoe's advice.

If it's a starforce free SH3 full game download then type 'steam' into google and take it from there.
I believe there may be a small issue with this download covered by another thread.

There is a starforce free edition of the game available from the Subsim US store. Unfortunately this is not available through Subsim's UK store link.
And the best of luck!
U2222

Nice info. Thanks. :03:

[maltesenick]

Hi guys, first post from an absolute novice both with a PC and the technicalities of gaming. Got SH3 and fell in love with it. Now trying to upgrade but being stymied on various fronts. I'm running Vista Home Premium on a dell Dimension E520 with 3GB memory.. Bought the PC DVD-ROM UK version ( ref ESS632/D ? on spine of case.) When I try to run the various update progs I get :-" This prog can't update the installed version of SH3 EMEA DVD v1.0 for the following reasons c:\Silent HunterIII\anim.act:unknown version "
Also having problems with GWX 3.0 when I get told that the version of SH3 I am running has mods yet it is a fresh install straight off DVD ( and is on c: drive and not in program files as recommended.) Any sort of help couched in short words aimed at a PC incompetent who needs pointed to the correct buttons etc would be welcomed.

Nick

[beartooth91]

Ok guys here we go, after a few hours of playing this is what i discovered. There is a problem with starforce and vista when you try and update game, hence why the patch dosnt work. However if you follow the instructions i'm about to give then you can get it to work.

1. Install Sh3 and play once.
2. Download starforce update tool.
3. Update Starforce.
4. Deinstall Sh3
5. Reinstall SH3 (not sure why but it works :) )
6. Patch to 1.4b ( The game should be upgraded by now )
7. Upgrade to GWX ( if you want, although not sure why anyone wouldnt )



Ok, this isn't working for me. I'm running Vista Home Premium x64. The stock game installs, however, upon launching the 1st time I get the "Protection System" Error saying that it'll only launch with Win 95/OS/98/ME/2003/XP. So I can't get it to launch at all after 1st installed as in Step 1, above. Running the Star Force update gives me a pop-up window saying "No installed protection drivers found to update". Interestingly enough, the 1.4b patch seems to install, but, again, I get the same protection error when trying to launch. I did try uninstalling, then reinstalling - same result.

I've been playing SH4 for a couple of years now. I've never played SH3. I bought the DVD last year and never tried to play until now.
Does someone have a solution or did I waste the $$ ?

Thanks

[beartooth91]

Well, after several attempts, I finally did get it to run with Vista Home Premium x64. I'd love to post a detailed step by step for others to use, but, I'm afraid I might get banned for what I had to do to get it to run.

[Abd_von_Mumit]

Well, after several attempts, I finally did get it to run with Vista Home Premium x64. I'd love to post a detailed step by step for others to use, but, I'm afraid I might get banned for what I had to do to get it to run.

:hmmm: On my Vista Home Premium 64bit it runs just like that, install, launch and voila. Strange indeed.

[beartooth91]

:hmmm: On my Vista Home Premium 64bit it runs just like that, install, launch and voila. Strange indeed.

I hear there are SH3 editions out that are not Star Force protected (the SH2+SH3 Encore edition comes to mind). Perhaps you have one of those.

[Abd_von_Mumit]

I hear there are SH3 editions out that are not Star Force protected (the SH2+SH3 Encore edition comes to mind). Perhaps you have one of those.

That's the answer, yes. I use a localized edition which doesn't use the SF thingy. Disregard what I wrote above then.

[U443]

If you have SH3 Via Steam to beat the Starforce rubbish how do you put Mods on?

[janusx]

Hi im new here, but play the game SH3 for some years now, never updated it, but now i want to do that, i heard that menny of you have StarForce that protects SH3 and also can update SH3.
I tried everything but i can not disover a StarForce file on my intire pc ?
So i still can't update to 1.4b because of the missing .dll ;)

Maby some one have a sollution ?
My version DVD is 1.401

Greetz, Ramon

[-=WELO=-]

ok guys to tell you i downloaded the starforce protection ..... and installed it it told me your starforce protection cant be updated coz you have the lastest version .... so i thought lets try the patch 1.4 b it told me bla bla en_menu.txt or what not has unknown version so cut it out of program files/silent hunter III/bla/bla .... and i went to update it again ... it worked !!! then I pasted the file i cut out from there back where it was ... installed GWX 3.0 and it worked !! i didnt have to reinstall the game or anything .... only thing you need after you install the 1.4 b patch is a 1.4b crack which you can found at www.gamecopyworld.com ... hope i helped you :)

[Gilbou]

I bought my Silent Hunter III from this store :

http://www.focusmm.co.uk

Comes on DVD, patched to 1.4b and no Starforce.

Did cost me less than 10 euro.

[irish1958]

Since Windows7 is basically Vista without many of the mistakes inherent in Vista, all the problems listed above are covered in the thread: http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showthread.php?t=105144
Moderator: please consider renaming the sticky "Vista and Windows7." install suggestions.

[Akula]

Anyone else having issues with getting the hi-res fix to work under Vista?

I can load up to the loading screen just past the intro videos the it crashes with a message saying SH3 stopped working. I have the two files (d9d.cfg and d9d.dll) in the root directory of SH3.

Any ideas?

[CybaGirl]

Anyone else having issues with getting the hi-res fix to work under Vista?

I can load up to the loading screen just past the intro videos the it crashes with a message saying SH3 stopped working. I have the two files (d9d.cfg and d9d.dll) in the root directory of SH3.

Any ideas?

I have an issue where it just doesn't work period! I have the files inside my SilentHunterIII directory and the game loads fine. But I don't get any changes in the way of the resolution being higher. The screen seems to be still at 1024 x 768 or whatever the resolution is.

The only difference I notice is that I can move my mouse off the screen and when moving it back it takes a while before it comes back into view. This happens at the bottom of the screen and to the right of the screen.

So those d9d files have done something. Just that the game screen itself is not in a higher resolution for some reason.

BTW I am trying to get it to display in 1680 x 1050. I even went back to 800 x 600 and thats how I came across the mouse movement as it would only move inside an 800 x 600 sized area on the menu of the game.

[Vann]

ok havent read all pages.. maybe was posted before a fix..

but running here original SH3 dvd in Vista x64bits perfectly fine..with the lastest 1.4b patch and GWX 3.0 mod at 1280x1024 resolution. could be at any resolution but monitor cant.

starforce protection dont work on 64bit OS.. so u need to use the removal starforce tool. available on their starforce protection site...

-download SFREMOVE
http://www.star-force.com/support/drivers/

-intall the game..
-disconect ur DVD drive? (not sure if this step is really necessary)
-patch to the latest game patch.. 1.4b.. for DVD US version.
-use the starforce protection removal tool.. made by starforce developers.
-use the SH3 no-DVD 1.4b patch.. "rld-sh14" (or the version for ur CD/DVD that apply) google it.. about 5 files.. in the patch.. that replace the original ones..
-go to SH3 instalation forder... right click on SH5.exe and choose compatibilty.. to run in windows_Xp mode.
-done

btw.. found that info in Ubisoft and microsoft support forums..

to run the game at ANY resolution..
from another thread



Here's how:
download... DX9res v1.0
http://www.kegetys.net/misc/
place the 2 files D3d9.cfg ,D3d9.dll on ur game instalation..
u can scan them .. with any antivirus they are clean.. but could
trigger abit later a false alarm when used with the compatibilty toolkit because
they modify the way this game runs.. (ie.. a resolution not supported by the original game)
its ok..

u need to open the file d3d9.cfg with a notepad and edit manually the resolution u want..

u might need also to do the following.. that utility dont work with services pack2.



Download and install the Application Compatibility Toolkit from Microsoft.

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=24da89e9-b581-47b0-b45e-492dd6da2971&displaylang=en


After it is installed, on the start menu, go to "All Programs/Microsoft Application Compatibility Toolkit 5.5" and run the Compatibility Administrator.

When the program opens, make sure New Database is highlighted under Custom Databases, and click the Fix button.

In the "Name of program to be fixed" box, type SH3. Now, click the browse button, and select the sh3.exe in your SH3 install directory.

Click Next.

Under "Operating System Modes" select None.

Click Next.

In the "Compatibility Fixes" box, check DelayDLLInit, and click the Parameters button.
In the "Command Line" box, type d3d9.dll and click OK. (You can click the "Test Run" button to make sure it is working.)

Click Next.

Click Finish.

Click the Save button, name it SH3, and click OK.

On the File menu, select Install.

Close the Compatibilty Administrator.

Enjoy SH3.

Sartori23





after all that u should be playing Sh3 in any vista x64 or windows7 x64 version.. at any resolution.. should work for x32 versions..

[Cambaz]

so here is my problem :

I have a SH III copy without any starforce thing and my OP is vista home premium 32 bit, I loaded my game in Program files, before the install I created a new folder in Program files named 'SH III' than patched to 1.4b than loaded GWX 3.0 than CMDR files for GWX 3.0 finally CMDR game starts when I click game starts and I can able to see the 'loading screen' when it finishes vista says " SH III stopped working " so I have to close it what can I do please help me because I really need to play cuz I get bored so much... :(

[Pisces]

so here is my problem :

I have a SH III copy without any starforce thing and my OP is vista home premium 32 bit, I loaded my game in Program files, before the install I created a new folder in Program files named 'SH III' than patched to 1.4b than loaded GWX 3.0 than CMDR files for GWX 3.0 finally CMDR game starts when I click game starts and I can able to see the 'loading screen' when it finishes vista says " SH III stopped working " so I have to close it what can I do please help me because I really need to play cuz I get bored so much... :(That's not enough, the game folder should not be placed inside the Program Files path (or "Program FIles (x86)" if you have a 64-bit edition of Windows). Anything that is in Program Files wil be under the watchfull eye of big brother Windows. Instead, changing the default location to something like C:\SH3 or C:\Games\SH3 should have worked. Just making a folder has no effect. The installation path entry in the setup steps should be changed. Also, don't put it in (My) Documents, or no-one else working on that pc can access it either.

I advice to also install SH3 Commander outside of Program Files. It creates a backup folder that might also be prevented by Windows.

[Andrewsdad]

Salute, All !!

I have a 64 bit Vista laptop and after one failed try I got the sim to work. All of the tools and patches are referenced and linked in posts above.

Here is what I did:

1. Download the Starforce Driver Remove tool.

2. Downloaded the 1.4b patch and the no-cd patch for it.

3. Made a new folder in C drive and called it Subgame. (Call it whatever you want. The idea is to NOT install SH3 in the Program Files folder.)

4. Run As Aministrator the Starforce Driver Removal Program.

5. Insert the SH3 disk in the drive and when it Auto Starts click Cancel.

6. Explore the Disk in its drive and find the Installation folder and run it as a administrator. Be sure you tell it to install the sim in the new folder you created. (In my case it is Subgame) see note #3. When done remove the disk from the drive. Do NOT start the game !

7. Run as Administrator the 1.4b patch. Follow the installation path correctly to get to your SH3 game. ;)

8. Run as Administrator the no-cd patch.

This worked for me. I installed the SH Commander into my "Subgame" folder and into that went the needed files to run Commander with GWX which I will do tomorrow. I will post a update then.

Good Luck !!
AD

[Pisces]

...
I installed the SH Commander into my "Subgame" folder and into that went the needed files to run Commander with GWX which I will do tomorrow. I will post a update then.

Good Luck !!
ADCongratulations for getting it to work. However, I hope you didn't install SH3 Commander in the exact same folder as the game. I mean, did the executables end up right next to each other in the same folder, or seperate subfolders? If the former, I don't think there will be file conflicts but it sure makes a bit of a mess in there.

[Andrewsdad]

The default installation C/Program Files/Ubisoft/Sh3 did not work. I was surprised that by creating my own folder which I called "Subgame", the SH3 install did not create sub-folders called "Ubisoft" and "Silent Hunter3 but put the files directly into Subgame.

SH3 Commander installed inside the installation, but in its' own folder. In there went the GWX files to use Commander.

The GWX install went smoothly.

The Subgame folder may be a mess, but I don't think I need to mess around in it now that everything works.

Salute !!
AD

[GSpector]

Rule of thumb, if it works, don't mess with it and sometimes, it's best to not ask why, just accept that it does and have fun :03:

[Cambaz]

That's not enough, the game folder should not be placed inside the Program Files path (or "Program FIles (x86)" if you have a 64-bit edition of Windows). Anything that is in Program Files wil be under the watchfull eye of big brother Windows. Instead, changing the default location to something like C:\SH3 or C:\Games\SH3 should have worked. Just making a folder has no effect. The installation path entry in the setup steps should be changed. Also, don't put it in (My) Documents, or no-one else working on that pc can access it either.

I advice to also install SH3 Commander outside of Program Files. It creates a backup folder that might also be prevented by Windows.

Thank you so much Pisces :salute: it worked :) thanks again...

[Pisces]

The default installation C/Program Files/Ubisoft/Sh3 did not work. I was surprised that by creating my own folder which I called "Subgame", the SH3 install did not create sub-folders called "Ubisoft" and "Silent Hunter3 but put the files directly into Subgame.

SH3 Commander installed inside the installation, but in its' own folder. In there went the GWX files to use Commander.

The GWX install went smoothly.

The Subgame folder may be a mess, but I don't think I need to mess around in it now that everything works.

Salute !!
ADWell, the mess you made is contained enough to be manageable. Seems like it wil go ok.

[carioca1000]

Many have written here that with Windows Vista 32-bit I shall not install it under the "C:\Program Files\SilentHunterIII\" folder. When I try it by pressing the "Browse" button to change the installation folder, a program "InstalDriver Module" stop the installation and get the message "1628: Failed to complete installation".

My CD Installation is version 1.4 with StarForce on it.

Please guide me to a solution?

Regards,

Felipe

[Pisces]

Can you manually insert an installation path, instead of using the browse button? Like: C:\Games\SilentHunter3 It should automatically generate the folders when it is installing.

Did you ever get the UAC to pop-up asking for permission? Most reports I found about this error suggested you need administrator priveledges to get past it. Which you really need, installing in Program Files or not. (By the way this goes for 32-bit as wel as 64-bit)

[Axeman3d]

I recently installed SHIII from my old CD and it went on and updated without issue, and I am running Vista x64 Home Premium. The only issue I encountered was when I started the game, and the Starforce protection nonsense would not run on Vista. I used the Starforce removal tool and replaced the .exe files as instructed by their site, and I never looked back. I did not have to change admin priveliges or anything else, just remove the DRM nonsense and it starts first time.

[carioca1000]

Pisces,

Thank you very much for your attention and patience.

Please how do I manually insert an installation path, instead of using the browse button?

I tried to install with or without administrator privileges, both ways I got the same message error.

Regards,

Felipe

[Pisces]

Pisces,

Thank you very much for your attention and patience.

Please how do I manually insert an installation path, instead of using the browse button?

I tried to install with or without administrator privileges, both ways I got the same message error.

Regards,

FelipeWell I'm not totally sure anymore if it applies to SH3, but you usually get to see the install location in a text box. And then you can click the cursor in it and modify it. But maybe you do need to use the browse button to get to see it. Or the text box is visible but greyed out so you can't alter it. I can't remember exactly. It's been too long since I installed it in Vista.

[carioca1000]

Pisces,


I have no idea which file and how I will discover this. If you or somenone else remember it, please let me know.

I changed the "Silent Hunter III.msi" file, but it did not work.

Then I tried it again with the normal DVD and the computer asked to correct "WindowsInstaller" which I did, then it worked.

I followed the instructions of the folks of the LSH3 staff.

Anyway thank you very much for your attention and patience.

Regards,

Felipe

[Lannes]

AD!!!

You are the man. Like many, I frustratingly tried to load SH3 onto a Vista machine a while back. Today, bored, I found this thread and...Voila!

I can once again play my favorite sim of all time. :DL

Thanks again!

[croozer]

I have no idea if this is the correct place to post this but I'm having problems with the 1.4B patch

I'm trying to upgrade to GWX 3.0 (I had 2.1)
I have a 2005 V1.0 US dvd edition of SH3 - Windows XP

I deleted all of the SH3 files and reinstalled
When I try the 1.4b patch (the US dvd version) it won't run - I get this error

c:\program files\Ubisoft\Silenthunter111\data\menu\de_help.tx t:unknown version

Ubisoft sdays the previous patches have to be installed in order but the GWX instructions say not.
ANy ideas? (I'm not a computer guy - I just like the game)

Thanks

[baronwilhelm]

:arrgh!:Posting my sucess on this mission,install clean sh3 then patch 1.4b,then find the no DVD crack for sh3 marked 1.4b,then install GWX gold then install extra mods as normal go inside sh3 folder to find shortcut for desktop. Also install it as gwx recommends C:/silent hunter3 not in program fileshttp://www.subsim.com/radioroom/images/icons/wolf_posticon.gif

[Fish In The Water]

Glad it's working for you Baron, and welcome! :sunny:

[Komrad Mal]

Hello Anyone Im running vista and SH3
and have patched to 1.4b and SH3 runs perfectly.
I then downloaded all GWX 3 and tried to install and it
says there are modded files found and it must be a clean copy
and tries to install in c/ program files/ubisoft/silenthunter3 yet
when I go to Cdrive I cant find ubisoft file ( yep done the hidden folder thing) I followed all the GWX website pointers for vista installation and deleted every file it said yet i cant get GWX 3 to install was wondering
if there is a secret file I dont know about.

Cheers Mal

[oskar123]

I have no idea if this is the correct place to post this but I'm having problems with the 1.4B patch

I'm trying to upgrade to GWX 3.0 (I had 2.1)
I have a 2005 V1.0 US dvd edition of SH3 - Windows XP

I deleted all of the SH3 files and reinstalled
When I try the 1.4b patch (the US dvd version) it won't run - I get this error

c:\program files\Ubisoft\Silenthunter111\data\menu\de_help.tx t:unknown version

Ubisoft sdays the previous patches have to be installed in order but the GWX instructions say not.
ANy ideas? (I'm not a computer guy - I just like the game)

Thanks

Im having the same problem. Have not tried with GWX (yet), but i get the same problem when i try to install 1.4b.

Only difference: im running windows 8... :)

[Sailor Steve]

Im having the same problem. Have not tried with GWX (yet), but i get the same problem when i try to install 1.4b.

Only difference: im running windows 8... :)
WELCOME ABOARD! :sunny:

First, did you let the game install itself into Program Files? Windows 7 and 8 don't like you fiddling with PF. Instead direct the game to install to your main drive, but outside Program Files.

Second, how new is the game? If the date on the box says 2008 or newer, it is already fully patched, and trying to add the patch again will only mess things up.