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Galactic Civilizations II: Known Issues / How to get support

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Galactic Civilizations II: Known Issues / How to get support

Read this please

from GalCiv2 Forums

If you are having problems installing from the CD-ROMs, try copying the files from the CDs to your hard drive and then run the installation from your hard drive.  If you are having problems activating GalCiv2, please read this sticky post:

https://forums.galciv2.com/122873

If you have any other problems installing or activating GalCiv2 and you can't find an answer in a sticky post, please e-mail [email protected]

With all the hardware and configurations out there, it's inevitable that some people are going to run into a problem.  The most important thing to bear in mind that if something is happening for you, it may not be happening for anyone else. Our job is to do our best to make sure the game works perfectly for you.

When you have a problem, the best tools you have is the debug.err that is in the GalCiv2 directory. It will tell us virtually everything we need.  In addition, you can install Smart Exception from Stardock Central (see downloads section here) from the "free stuff" in Stardock Central. If you have that running and GalCiv II crashes or something, it will create a file that will tell us exactly where.

So that we're on the same page - the game should never crash on you. As far as we know, there are zero crash bugs in Galactic Civilizations II.

The first thing to always do is to make sure you have the latest version of the game.

#1 Game crashes immediately.

Happens to approximately 0.5% of users.

Most common cause: Running your desktop at below 1024x768 or running your desktop in 16-bit color.  This resolves 99% of users.  Check your debug.err and make sure you're not running at some really low resolution.

#2 Game crashes randomly while playing!

Happens to approximately 0.5% of users.

Most common cause: People with older video drivers. We weren't kidding, you MUST HAVE A RECENT (past year) set of video drivers. If you don't, the game will crash randomly. The readme says this. The stickies say this. We're not kidding around here. You must update your video drivers. Ignoring all that and running into the forum and saying "How could they ship this piece of #$@#!" is not going to update your video driver. You must update the video driver. 

Ex: If you're running the nvidia 81.95 drivers, update them to 81.98 or better.

You also absolutely must be running at 1024x768 or higher. That means both X and Y must be equal to or greater than those two numbers.

Next most common cause: People who have eliminated their page file or have a very small page file.  That's your virtual memory.  Check the debug.err and near the top it will say how much virtual memory you have allocated. If it's less than a gig (heck, nowadays you should have at least 2 gigs for virtual memory) then there's your problem. 

Next most common cause: Overheating. The game's 3D engine has no polygon count limit, no texture limit. It's designed so that even 2 years from now, you can with mods plug in advanced textures. Some modders have already put in ships from popular sci-fi movies that have over a million polygons and it works.  But it comes at a cost: Your video cards are fully utilized. And that can translate to heat.  This mostly affects people who have built their own machines and thrown in a powerful video card.  Version 1.0X (and later) support GPU throttling which should solve this.

Next most common cause: People with AMD64 Dual Core who haven't updated their chipset drivers. GO here, get your drivers, play game, have fun.

#3 You lose your mouse pointer

People with nVidia Geforce 6X series cards (for the most part) have reported this. We have yet to get it in our internal lab and it doesn't seem to be that wide spread but it's a real show stopper.  The solution is to use the hardware mouse cursor which is in the video options area of the game.

OTHER TIPS:

Read the stickies! Post your debug.err.  Or at the very least tell us what kind of computer you have (though debug.err will tell us all about your computer). 

For more troubleshooting tips, please read this sticky:

https://forums.galciv2.com/127231

 

1,053,007 views 586 replies
Reply #51 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
lowilly: Open your debug.err in notepad and post the contents of it here. You can find it at C:\Program Files\Stardock\Totalgaming\GalCiv2.
Reply #52 from Stardock Forums Top
Why dose Stardoc not support Galactic Civilations 1, so that I can learn to play the game befor I concider weather or not to buy Galatic Civilations 2. You do not give out a proper manul to play the game. What is autopilot and how do I make it work. How do you take over other planets. How do you use resorses. Please reply to my questions to [email protected] thank you.

CursorFX - Customize your Windows cursor
Reply #53 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
What is autopilot and how do I make it work. How do you take over other planets. How do you use resorses


Autopilot is just a term for when you have sent a ship somewhere, but will take more than one turn to get there (so it goes on 'autopilot' until it arrives at its destination.

To take over planets, build transport ships, launch them and load them with troops, and order them to move to the planet in question. They will then go there and attempt to take it over. If the enemy has ships in orbit of the planet, you will need to destroy those with your own combat ships first before the transport can invade.

To use resources, build constructor ships and send them there. They will build a resource mining starbase (you may or may not be prompted to confrim that action when they arrive, IIRC, or you may need to manually select the 'construct' order). You can send more constructors to increase the bonus the resource gives you. These bonuses are added directly to your civilization-wide ability in the appropriate area.

FYI, there have been many great changes between GC1 and GC2. If you want to get an idea if you will like GC2, you'd be far better off just checking out the GC2 demo (see the downloads page) than basing your descision on GC1.
Reply #54 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
You are A W E S O M E awesome awesome totally!!! Thanks for your help game works after saves and ship building and so forth. Thanks also for the video upgrades for some unknown reaon I never would of up graded them myself never thought about it. lol Well Have a great Thanksgiving and Holidays... Mavrick South
Reply #55 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
hi ive bought the game and it crashes randomly everyso often for no apparent reaon ive triyed updating the game by regestering on the site and the update thing wont accept my activation key its probs somthin simple but i have no idea whats wrong with it
Reply #56 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
ive triyed updating the game by regestering on the site and the update thing wont accept my activation key


Do you receive an error message trying to register or activate? If so, what does it say (please be specific)?
Reply #57 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
Game crashes as soon as you go to Universe screen.



Debug Message: Version v1.4x last updated on: Mon Oct 23 17:43:56 2006
Debug Message: GalCiv2 is activated.
Debug Message: Checking DX Version.
Debug Message: *********DXDiag info follows.*********
System Info
Time: 12/1/2006, 17:31:54
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: GODS
Operating System: Windows XP Professional (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 2 (2600.xpsp_sp2_gdr.050301-1519)
Languages: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: AWARD_
System Model: AWRDACPI
BIOS: Phoenix - AwardBIOS v6.00PG
Processor: AMD Athlon(tm) 64 Processor 3500+, MMX, 3DNow, ~2.3GHz
Physical Memory: 2048MB RAM
Page File: 186MB used, 5798MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS


Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: RADEON X850 Series
Manufacturer: ATI Technologies Inc.
Chip Type: ATI RADEON X850 XT Platinum Edition AGP (0x4B4C)
DAC Type: Internal DAC(400MHz)
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4B4C&SUBSYS_03121002&REV_00
Display Memory: 256.0 MB
Current Display Mode: 1280 x 1024 (32 bit) (75Hz)
Monitor Name: SyncMaster 955b(T)/905b(T)/950b(T), SyncMaster Magic CM195A(M)
Monitor Max Resolution: 1792,1344
Driver Name: ati2dvag.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.6641
Driver Date: 9/26/2006 20:50:22
DirectX Acceleration Enabled: Yes



Sound info
Sound device 1:
Description: Realtek AC97 Audio
Default Sound Playback: Yes
Default Voice Playback: Yes
Hardware ID: PCI\VEN_10B9&DEV_5455&SUBSYS_2207147B&REV_20
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: ALCXWDM.SYS
Provider: Realtek Semiconductor Corp.
Driver Version: 5.10.0000.5900
Driver Date: 8/19/2005 16:31:52
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 3
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0



Debug Message: *********END dxdiag info.*********
Debug Message: Entering WinMain
Debug Message: ******* Starting Game Shell *******
Debug Message: Going Fullscreen
Debug Message: Preparing to change display settings.
Debug Message: Using multilsample setting: D3DMULTISAMPLE_NONE
Debug Message: Game Resolution: 1024 x 768
Debug Message: Running fullscreen.
Debug Message: HAL (hw vp): RADEON X850 Series
Debug Message: D3DPRESENT_INTERVAL_DEFAULT
Debug Message: Refresh rate: 75
Debug Message: Bit Depth: 32 bit.
Debug Message: *********Checking D3DDevice Caps***********************
Debug Message: A full-color cursor is supported in hardware at high resolution modes.
Debug Message: RGB in format 6:6:6, Masks reported as ff0000:ff00:ff
Debug Message: Now Fullscreen
Debug Message: Shell initialization complete
Debug Message: ***** Initializing Game *****
Debug Message: Timer Frequency is 0 369e99
Debug Message: Initializing sound card.
Debug Message: initailizing bink
Debug Message: No string tables in G:\GalCiv2\Mods\Default/Data/*.str
Debug Message: No files found matching mask G:\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Movies\*.bik
Debug Message: No files found matching mask G:\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Movies\techs\*.bik
Debug Message: No files found matching mask G:\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Gfx\*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask G:\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Gfx\Race\*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask G:\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\sfx\*.wav
Debug Message: No files found matching mask G:\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Music\*.mp3
Debug Message: No files found matching mask G:\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\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 G:\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Data\*.xml
Debug Message: Clear data definitions.
Debug Message: No files found matching mask G:\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Data\Techs\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask G:\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Data\ShipComponents\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask G:\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Data\ShipDefs\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Daroc\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask G:\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Gfx\Planets\C0*.png
Debug Message: No files found matching mask G:\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Data\PlanetImprovements\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask G:\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Data\TerrainColorSchemes\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask G:\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Data\PlanetDescriptions\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Daroc\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.shipcfg
Debug Message: No files found matching mask G:\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Data\Anomalies\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask G:\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Data\Events\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask G:\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Data\UPIssues\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask G:\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Data\Invasions\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask G:\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Data\PoliticalParties\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask G:\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Data\StarTypes\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask G:\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Data\StarbaseModules\*.xml
Debug Message: Reading Star Names
Debug Message: Reading Star Names... Done
Debug Message: No files found matching mask G:\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Data\CustomMaps\*.gc2map
Debug Message: No files found matching mask G:\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Data\Scenarios\*.gc2scenario
Reply #58 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
First off, find the file prefs.ini in My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2, open it in notepad, and change the line fullscreen=1 to fullscreen=0, then try running the game. If it still crashes, please install SmartException from the 'free stuff' section in SDC, then run it before you try to run the game. It should generate a crash log when the game dies, which you can send to [email protected] for the devs to look at. If it doesn't crash after you do that, post back here and we'll see if we can narrow things down.
Reply #59 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
I live in the country and only have dial-up. 28.8 is the best I can do, and that's rare. I downloaded the 1.40 patch.(5 hours) and when I tried to open it, it said it wasn't a valid win32 program. Can you help?
Reply #60 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
I downloaded the 1.40 patch.(5 hours) and when I tried to open it, it said it wasn't a valid win32 program.


The download was probably corrupted (not suprising if you have a very poor connection), in which case you'll need to try again. Personally I'd recommend just buying a USB flash drive (if you don't have one already) and downloading at a library or friend's house so as to save yourself the pain of a long wait redownloading it.
Reply #61 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
I was afraid that might be the problem, but thanks for the info, I hadn't thought of using the library. Thanks again.
Reply #62 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
Game crashes when I try and load a saved game. Debug.err text follows. Any help you could give would be greatly appriciated.

Debug Message: Version v1.2 last updated on: Mon Jun 12 18:04:26 2006
Debug Message: *********DXDiag info follows.*********
System Info
Time: 12/27/2006, 15:13:16
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: TARDIS
Operating System: Windows XP Professional (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 2 (2600.xpsp_sp2_gdr.050301-1519)
Languages: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: Dell Computer Corporation
System Model: Inspiron 5100
BIOS: Phoenix FirstBIOS(tm) Desktop Pro Version 2.0
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 2.80GHz
Physical Memory: 1150MB RAM
Page File: 274MB used, 1137MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS


Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: MOBILITY RADEON 7500C
Manufacturer: ATI Technologies Inc.
Chip Type: MOBILITY RADEON 7500 AGP (0x4C57)
DAC Type: Internal DAC(350MHz)
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4C57&SUBSYS_01491028&REV_00
Display Memory: 32.0 MB
Current Display Mode: 1024 x 768 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor Name: Default Monitor
Monitor Max Resolution:
Driver Name: ati2dvag.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.6371
Driver Date: 7/29/2003 14:14:02
DirectX Acceleration Enabled: Yes



Sound info
Sound device 1:
Description: SigmaTel Audio
Default Sound Playback: Yes
Default Voice Playback: Yes
Hardware ID: PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_24C5&SUBSYS_01491028&REV_02
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: STAC97.sys
Provider: SigmaTel
Driver Version: 5.10.3722.0000
Driver Date: 11/11/2002 17:57:16
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 3
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0



Debug Message: *********END dxdiag info.*********
Debug Message: Entering WinMain
Debug Message: ******* Starting Game Shell *******
Debug Message: Going Fullscreen
Debug Message: Preparing to change display settings.
Debug Message: Using multilsample setting: D3DMULTISAMPLE_NONMASKABLE
Debug Message: Game Resolution: 1024 x 768
Debug Message: Running fullscreen.
Debug Message: HAL (hw vp): MOBILITY RADEON 7500C
Debug Message: D3DPRESENT_INTERVAL_DEFAULT
Debug Message: Refresh rate: 60
Debug Message: Bit Depth: 32 bit.
Debug Message: *********Checking D3DDevice Caps***********************
Debug Message: A full-color cursor is supported in hardware at high resolution modes.
Debug Message: RGB in format 6:6:6, Masks reported as ff0000:ff00:ff
Debug Message: Now Fullscreen
Debug Message: Shell initialization complete
Debug Message: ***** Initializing Game *****
Debug Message: Timer Frequency is 0 369e99
Debug Message: Initializing sound card.
Debug Message: initailizing bink
Debug Message: Create setup screens.
Debug Message: Clear galaxy settings.
Debug Message: Clear influence.
Debug Message: Clear up laws.
Debug Message: Clear first time events.
Debug Message: Clear wonders and trade goods.
Debug Message: Clear sector mapper.
Debug Message: Set mouse.
Debug Message: Set update timer.
Debug Message: Clear data definitions.
*DEBUG ERROR: ***Unable to find required tech ImpossibleTech for PirateShip. ***
*DEBUG ERROR: ***Unable to find required tech ImpossibleTech for Starbase. ***
Debug Message: Reading Star Names
Debug Message: Reading Star Names... Done
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Mike Agostinelli\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\Logos\*.sav
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Mike Agostinelli\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\Metaverse\*.sav
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Mike Agostinelli\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\Mods\*.sav
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Mike Agostinelli\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\Portraits\*.sav
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Mike Agostinelli\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.sav
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Mike Agostinelli\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\temp\*.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 space resources.
Debug Message: Killing colonies and planets.
Debug Message: killing scenario.
Debug Message: Clearing Turn Event Log
Debug Message: Clear galaxy settings.
Debug Message: Clear influence.
Debug Message: Clear up laws.
Debug Message: Clear first time events.
Debug Message: Clear wonders and trade goods.
Debug Message: Clear sector mapper.
Debug Message: Loading Custom Map
Debug Message: Loading Data Defs
Debug Message: Clear data definitions.
Debug Message: Loading TechDefs
Debug Message: Max num techs: 248
Debug Message: Loading ImprovementDB
Debug Message: Loading Component Defs
Debug Message: Loading ShipTypes
Debug Message: Loading ShipConfigs
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 Game
Debug Message: Loading: Game mode is normal.
Debug Message: Loading Galaxy
Debug Message: Sectors across: 8 x 8
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 Civs
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 ENDGALAXYDATA
Debug Message: Updating ZOC.
Debug Message: UIBeginGame called with g_ulLocalPlayerID = 10
Debug Message: UIBeginGameHelper: New Game Started
Debug Message: UIBeginGameHelper: Mods are Disabled
Reply #63 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
The First time I loaded the game it said I needed to update my drivers. I clicked OK and the game loaded fine. I then exited the game (without playing) and DL the new drivers. Now it wont load at all. It goes straight to a black screen.

Debug Message: Version v1.4x last updated on: Mon Oct 23 17:43:56 2006
Debug Message: GalCiv2 is activated.
Debug Message: Checking DX Version.
Debug Message: *********DXDiag info follows.*********
System Info
Time: 12/27/2006, 14:10:28
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: CHRIS
Operating System: Windows XP Professional (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 2 (2600.xpsp_sp2_rtm.040803-2158)
Languages: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: VIA Technologies, Inc.
System Model: KT333-8235
BIOS: Phoenix - AwardBIOS v6.00PG
Processor: AMD Athlon(tm) XP, MMX, 3DNow, ~1.1GHz
Physical Memory: 1024MB RAM
Page File: 155MB used, 2308MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS


Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: RADEON 9500 PRO / 9700
Manufacturer: ATI Technologies Inc.
Chip Type: RADEON 9500 PRO AGP (0x4E45)
DAC Type: Internal DAC(400MHz)
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4E45&SUBSYS_00021002&REV_00
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: ati2dvag.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.6652
Driver Date: 11/21/2006 20:25:23
DirectX Acceleration Enabled: Yes



Sound info
Sound device 1:
Description: SB PCI512 Wave Device
Default Sound Playback: Yes
Default Voice Playback: Yes
Hardware ID: PCI\VEN_1102&DEV_0002&SUBSYS_80711102&REV_07
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: emu10k1m.sys
Provider: Microsoft
Driver Version: 5.12.0001.3300
Driver Date: 8/17/2001 05:19:26
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 3
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0



Debug Message: *********END dxdiag info.*********
Debug Message: Entering WinMain
Debug Message: ******* Starting Game Shell *******
Debug Message: Going Fullscreen
Debug Message: Preparing to change display settings.
Debug Message: 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
Reply #64 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
Game crashes when I try and load a saved game. Debug.err text follows. Any help you could give would be greatly appriciated.


You should update the game to the latest version, 1.4X. the patch is available on the downloads page of this site.

You should also update your video drivers. If ATI does not have recent drivers that will install on your machine, try Omega Drivers (note that support for 7000 series cards was dropped, so make sure to get the Radeon Omega Drivers 3.8.252 (Catalyst 6.5) from this page rather than the very latest version).
Reply #65 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
The First time I loaded the game it said I needed to update my drivers. I clicked OK and the game loaded fine. I then exited the game (without playing) and DL the new drivers. Now it wont load at all. It goes straight to a black screen.


Have you tried rebooting again since you installed the new drivers?
Reply #67 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
Can anyone help me with this... it is very frustrating. I have a Radeon 9500 Pro but with I use DXDIAG it says my Direct3D is not available. The end of the debug says:

Debug Message: *********END dxdiag info.*********
Debug Message: Entering WinMain
Debug Message: ******* Starting Game Shell *******
Debug Message: Going Fullscreen
Debug Message: Preparing to change display settings.
Debug Message: 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

Why does it say No Compatible devices found and InitializeDirect3D Failed.?
Please Help. I really want to try this game. Thanks
Reply #68 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
Are you running any other D3D software in the background? Try closing all other programs running (including system tray items) before you try to run the game.
Reply #69 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
Well I fixed it. Im not sure why this worked but it did... I dug out my original ATI Catalyst CD and reinstalled the original factory drivers off the cd. Now the game works. Something happened when I updated my drivers that was causing it to crash.

Go Figure!

Thanks for the help anyway
Reply #71 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
Ok Now ive got a new problem. After I finish setting all my game options and try to actually start the game it crashes on the load screen. here is my debug info

Debug Message: Version v1.4x last updated on: Mon Oct 23 17:43:56 2006
Debug Message: GalCiv2 is activated.
Debug Message: Checking DX Version.
Debug Message: *********DXDiag info follows.*********
System Info
Time: 12/27/2006, 21:16:30
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
Machine Name: CHRIS
Operating System: Windows XP Professional (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 2 (2600.xpsp_sp2_rtm.040803-2158)
Languages: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: VIA Technologies, Inc.
System Model: KT333-8235
BIOS: Phoenix - AwardBIOS v6.00PG
Processor: AMD Athlon(tm) XP, MMX, 3DNow, ~1.1GHz
Physical Memory: 1024MB RAM
Page File: 130MB used, 2333MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS


Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: RADEON 9700/9500 SERIES
Manufacturer: ATI Technologies Inc.
Chip Type: Radeon 9700AGP (NE)
DAC Type: Internal DAC(400MHz)
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4E45&SUBSYS_00021002&REV_00
Display Memory: 128.0 MB
Current Display Mode: 1024 x 768 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor Name: Plug and Play Monitor
Monitor Max Resolution: 1600,1200
Driver Name: ati2dvag.dll
Driver Version: 6.13.0010.6200
Driver Date: 10/12/2002 14:14:44
DirectX Acceleration Enabled: Yes



Sound info
Sound device 1:
Description: SB PCI512 Wave Device
Default Sound Playback: Yes
Default Voice Playback: Yes
Hardware ID: PCI\VEN_1102&DEV_0002&SUBSYS_80711102&REV_07
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: emu10k1m.sys
Provider: Microsoft
Driver Version: 5.12.0001.3300
Driver Date: 8/17/2001 05:19:26
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 3
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0



Debug Message: *********END dxdiag info.*********
Debug Message: Entering WinMain
Debug Message: ******* Starting Game Shell *******
Debug Message: Preparing to change display settings.
Debug Message: Using multilsample setting: D3DMULTISAMPLE_4_SAMPLES
Debug Message: Game Resolution: 1024 x 768
Debug Message: Running in windowed mode.
Debug Message: HAL (sw vp): RADEON 9700/9500 SERIES
Debug Message: D3DPRESENT_INTERVAL_IMMEDIATE
Debug Message: Refresh rate: 0
Debug Message: Bit Depth: 32 bit.
Debug Message: *********Checking D3DDevice Caps***********************
Debug Message: Hardware does not support a color cursor.
Debug Message: Border size reported as 6 by 32
Debug Message: RGB in format 6:6:6, Masks reported as ff0000:ff00:ff
Debug Message: Now windowed.
Debug Message: Shell initialization complete
Debug Message: ***** Initializing Game *****
Debug Message: Timer Frequency is 0 369e99
Debug Message: Initializing sound card.
Debug Message: initailizing bink
Debug Message: Create setup screens.
Debug Message: Clear galaxy settings.
Debug Message: Clear influence.
Debug Message: Clear up laws.
Debug Message: Clear first time events.
Debug Message: Clear wonders and trade goods.
Debug Message: Clear sector mapper.
Debug Message: * Collectors Edition *
Debug Message: Set mouse.
Debug Message: Set update timer.
Debug Message: Clear data definitions.
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Webster\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Documents and Settings\Webster\My Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.shipcfg
Debug Message: Reading Star Names
Debug Message: Reading Star Names... Done
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Data\CustomMaps\*.gc2map
Debug Message: No files found matching mask C:\Program Files\GalCiv2\Mods\Default\Data\Scenarios\*.gc2scenario
Debug Message: Creating Galaxy
Debug Message: Killing threads.
Debug Message: Kiling civs.
Debug Message: Killing ships.
Debug Message: Killing rallypoints.
Debug Message: Killing misc objects.
Debug Message: Killing stars.
Debug Message: Killing anomalies.
Debug Message: Killing space resources.
Debug Message: Killing colonies and planets.
Debug Message: killing scenario.
Debug Message: Clearing Turn Event Log
Debug Message: Clear galaxy settings.
Debug Message: Clear influence.
Debug Message: Clear up laws.
Debug Message: Clear first time events.
Debug Message: Clear wonders and trade goods.
Debug Message: Clear sector mapper.
Debug Message: Galaxy Size Set: 5 x 5
Debug Message: Creating Random Map
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Stars
Debug Message: Number of Unplaced Stars: 14.
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Planets
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: *************** Failed To Place Planet ***************
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Anomalies
Debug Message: Num Anomalies: 36
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Resources
Debug Message: Creating Random Map... Done
Debug Message: Setting Game Options
Debug Message: Creating Civs
Debug Message: Altarian Republic: Intellence -> 30
Debug Message: Arcean Empire: Intellence -> 30
Debug Message: Yor Collective: Intellence -> 30
Debug Message: Iconian Refuge: Intellence -> 30
Debug Message: Creating Civs... Done
Debug Message: Updating ZOC.
Debug Message: Updating ZOC.
Debug Message: Galaxy Create... Done
Debug Message: UIBeginGame called with g_ulLocalPlayerID = 5
Debug Message: UIBeginGameHelper: New Game Started
Debug Message: UIBeginGameHelper: Mods are Disabled


*Sigh*
Reply #72 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
The game does need recent drivers in order to run properly (or at all in most cases), namely ones from late 2005 or better. Older drivers will not support the DirectX 9.0c features needed.

Did you get the drivers from ATI.com the first time you tried to update, and if so, which ones? Unless something went wrong with the driver installation, ATI's reference drivers should work with all standard Radeon cards. You may also need to specifically uninstall the old drivers first.

You may also try using Omega Drivers, which are modified versions of the standard Catalysts. In many cases where the standard ones will not work, Omegas will.
Reply #73 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
I have russian localized version 1.31. After patch for 1.40x part of text in English and over in Russin. Can You give me files to do game comletely with text in English
P.S. sorry for bad English
Reply #74 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
There were a lot of freezes in my games. I could solve most of them trading with another race and try again (moving chains). After I've turned off "follow auto ships" most of the freezes are gone. Until now - nothing seems to work. If I close the game and restart it sometimes it runs one or two ship steps further and then freezes at another job again. Here's my debug.err:
Debug Message: Version v1.4x last updated on: Mon Oct 23 17:43:56 2006
Debug Message: GalCiv2 is activated.
Debug Message: Checking DX Version.
Debug Message: *********DXDiag info follows.*********
System Info
Time: 12/26/2006, 10:41:54
DirectX Version: DirectX 10
Machine Name: DADDY
Operating System: Windows Vista™ Ultimate (6.0, Build 5600) (5600.vista_rc1.060829-2230)
Languages: German (Regional Setting: German)
System Manufacturer: GBT___
System Model: AWRDACPI
BIOS: Award Modular BIOS v6.00PG
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU (2 CPUs), ~3.0GHz
Physical Memory: 2046MB RAM
Page File: 740MB used, 3577MB available
Windows Dir: H:\Windows


Display Info
Display device 1:
Device Name: \\.\DISPLAY1
Card Name: NVIDIA GeForce 6600 GT (Microsoft Corporation - WDDM)
Manufacturer: NVIDIA
Chip Type: GeForce 6600 GT
DAC Type: Integrated RAMDAC
Key Device: Enum\PCI\VEN_10DE&DEV_00F1&SUBSYS_2011107D&REV_A2
Display Memory: 128 MB
Current Display Mode: 1280 x 1024 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor Name: PnP-Monitor (Standard)
Monitor Max Resolution:
Driver Name: nvd3dum.dll,nvapi.dll
Driver Version: 7.15.0010.9746
Driver Date: 12/8/2006 04:25:00
DirectX Acceleration Enabled: Yes



Sound info
Sound device 1:
Description: Lautsprecher (Creative SB Audigy 2 ZS (WDM))
Default Sound Playback: Yes
Default Voice Playback: Yes
Hardware ID: PCI\VEN_1102&DEV_0004&SUBSYS_20021102&REV_04
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: {0.0.0.00000000}.{d99833c5-a163-4a8e-a167-55e21b51f50e}
Provider: Creative
Driver Version:
Driver Date:
Type: WDM
Other Drivers:
Acceleration Level: 1
Cap Flags: 0
Min/Max Sample Rate: 0, 0

Sound device 1:
Description: SPDIF Out (Creative SB Audigy 2 ZS (WDM))
Default Sound Playback: No
Default Voice Playback: No
Hardware ID: PCI\VEN_1102&DEV_0004&SUBSYS_20021102&REV_04
Manufacturer ID: 1
Product ID: 100
Driver Name: {0.0.0.00000000}.{c8d2a9a6-d5c5-4cbd-98fc-aacd0f6cb617}
Provider: Creative
Driver Version:
Driver Date:
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: Going Fullscreen
Debug Message: Preparing to change display settings.
Debug Message: Using multilsample setting: D3DMULTISAMPLE_4_SAMPLES
Debug Message: Game Resolution: 1280 x 1024
Debug Message: Running fullscreen.
Debug Message: HAL (hw vp): NVIDIA GeForce 6600 GT (Microsoft Corporation - WDDM)
Debug Message: D3DPRESENT_INTERVAL_DEFAULT
Debug Message: Refresh rate: 60
Debug Message: Bit Depth: 32 bit.
Debug Message: *********Checking D3DDevice Caps***********************
Debug Message: A full-color cursor is supported in hardware at high resolution modes.
Debug Message: RGB in format 6:6:6, Masks reported as ff0000:ff00:ff
Debug Message: Now Fullscreen
Debug Message: Shell initialization complete
Debug Message: ***** Initializing Game *****
Debug Message: Timer Frequency is 0 369e99
Debug Message: Initializing sound card.
Debug Message: initailizing bink
Debug Message: Create setup screens.
Debug Message: Clear galaxy settings.
Debug Message: Clear influence.
Debug Message: Clear up laws.
Debug Message: Clear first time events.
Debug Message: Clear wonders and trade goods.
Debug Message: Clear sector mapper.
Debug Message: Set mouse.
Debug Message: Set update timer.
Debug Message: Clear data definitions.
Debug Message: No files found matching mask H:\Users\Harald\Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.xml
Debug Message: No files found matching mask H:\Users\Harald\Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.shipcfg
Debug Message: Reading Star Names
Debug Message: Reading Star Names... Done
Debug Message: No files found matching mask H:\Users\Harald\Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\Dread Lords Campaign\*.sav
Debug Message: No files found matching mask H:\Users\Harald\Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\Logos\*.sav
Debug Message: No files found matching mask H:\Users\Harald\Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\Metaverse\*.sav
Debug Message: No files found matching mask H:\Users\Harald\Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\Portraits\*.sav
Debug Message: No files found matching mask H:\Users\Harald\Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\ships\*.sav
Debug Message: No files found matching mask H:\Users\Harald\Documents\My Games\GalCiv2\temp\*.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 space resources.
Debug Message: Killing colonies and planets.
Debug Message: killing scenario.
Debug Message: Clearing Turn Event Log
Debug Message: Clear galaxy settings.
Debug Message: Clear influence.
Debug Message: Clear up laws.
Debug Message: Clear first time events.
Debug Message: Clear wonders and trade goods.
Debug Message: Clear sector mapper.
Debug Message: Loading Custom Map
Debug Message: Loading Data Defs
Debug Message: Clear data definitions.
Debug Message: Loading TechDefs
Debug Message: Max num techs: 248
Debug Message: Loading ImprovementDB
Debug Message: Loading Component Defs
Debug Message: Loading ShipTypes
Debug Message: Loading ShipConfigs
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 Game
Debug Message: Loading: Game mode is normal.
Debug Message: Loading Galaxy
Debug Message: Sectors across: 18 x 18
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 Civs
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 ENDGALAXYDATA
Debug Message: Updating ZOC.
Debug Message: UIBeginGame called with g_ulLocalPlayerID = 10
Debug Message: UIBeginGameHelper: New Game Started
Debug Message: UIBeginGameHelper: Mods are Disabled
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: Error flipping back buffer to primary buffer.
Debug Message: n/a
Debug Message: WM_CLOSE message received.
Debug Message: GameUninitialize start
Debug Message: Killing Galaxy
Debug Message: Killing threads.
Debug Message: Kiling civs.
Debug Message: Killing ships.
Debug Message: Killing rallypoints.
Debug Message: Killing misc objects.
Debug Message: Killing stars.
Debug Message: Killing anomalies.
Debug Message: Killing space resources.
Debug Message: Killing colonies and planets.
Debug Message: killing scenario.
Debug Message: Clearing Turn Event Log
Debug Message: Clear galaxy settings.
Debug Message: Clear influence.
Debug Message: Clear up laws.
Debug Message: Clear first time events.
Debug Message: Clear wonders and trade goods.
Debug Message: Clear sector mapper.
Debug Message: Clear data definitions.
Debug Message: Killing Galaxy: Completed
Debug Message: Shutting down sound system.
Debug Message: Clearing sound and music handles.
Debug Message: WorkAreaBack.png not cleared 1 counts left.
Debug Message: GameUninitialize end
Debug Message: Device not cleared. 2 counts left.
Debug Message: D3D not cleared. 1 counts left.
Debug Message: Destroying Window.
Debug Message: Main Shell terminating normally


Reply #75 from GalCiv2 Forums Top
I have russian localized version 1.31. After patch for 1.40x part of text in English and over in Russin. Can You give me files to do game comletely with text in English


If you remove the game completely and install it via Stardock Central, you should receive the English version. If that doesn't work, you may need to manually find the GC2 key in the windows registry and delete the entry there that specifies the language (sorry, I don't know the specifics of that).

There were a lot of freezes in my games. I could solve most of them trading with another race and try again (moving chains). After I've turned off "follow auto ships" most of the freezes are gone. Until now - nothing seems to work. If I close the game and restart it sometimes it runs one or two ship steps further and then freezes at another job again. Here's my debug.err:


GC2 is not officially supported on pre-release versions of Vista (we will not be supporting Vista until the retail release next month). Running it on pre-release versions--especially an RC build rather than the latest RTM--is going to lead to trouble more often than not simply because the video drivers are just not complete yet. There's really nothing that can be done about it but to wait for the final version of Vista and the drivers both, or play on XP.