How to get my free Origin copy of Battlefield 1942 to run
Origin accounts have a free version of Battlefield 1942 available to download and play through their software but when I try to run it I get the Microsoft circle of patience (mouse circle showing activity) but then it disappears and the game/origin doesn't do anything.
I have tried to turn off the antivirus and firewall and run Origin and battlefield as Administrator but does not work.
I am running Windows 7 64Bit Ultimate 8GB RAM using NVIDIA GeForce GT 540M on an Acer Aspire 5755G. Everything is updated.
Solution 1:
PCGamingWiki.com is a good place to start.
Attempt 1: Run the game as an Administrator in Windows 98 Compatibility mode
In your Battlefield 1942 folder, Right click BF1942.exe->Go to Compatibility Tab
- Check "Run this program in compatibility mode for" and select Windows 98
- Check "Run as Administrator"
- Click OK
Compatibility mode should fix the crashes, however sometimes Punkbuster doesn't like it and boots you a few seconds after joining. If this is the case, Turn off compatibility mode and proceed to Attempt 2.
Note, this method is recommended if you are experiencing crashes for the Origin version of the game. It is also suggested you try the other compatibility modes if Windows 98 does not fix the problem.
Attempt 2: Pixel-Fighter Windows Vista/7 Patch
BF42 Player Grabbi (server admin/creator of Forgotten Hope Mod fan community Pixel-Fighter) has developed a patch which changes some game files and registry entries to fix crashing and eliminate the need for compatibility mode in Windows Vista/Windows 7 (thus fixing Punkbuster kicks because of it). It also adds some Widescreen resolutions (up to 1600x1200) and lowers abnormally high pings on Windows Vista/7 that some have reported. This should be a last resort since it permanently changes Windows registry entries and game files.
Pixel-Fighter Windows Vista/Windows 7 Patch Info