In general, is it a good idea to close other programs and go offline to save RAM while playing Civ3, other than when playing MP PTW on line of course, as a way of minimizing the possibility of crashes? Does being online use up much or any RAM?

My new Sony PC has plenty of Ram and I've never actually had a crash or freeze, but I thought I would the question as a general question for the benefit of all.

Thanks.

Civ3 is well-behaved in the Windows environment, meaning it shares RAM nicely, and cleans up after itself when it is done. ;)

When I play, I usually have my browser (Opera) up and open to CFC, ;) Notepad (if I am playing a succession game - to record my moves), and often a chat client or two (usually IRC open to #civfanatics).

Same here. 2 browsers for the demogame, mIRC chat for the demogame turnchats, and Civ3.

Well, on my Diety, 31-civ, 180x180 map game, I need all the RAM I can get!

thanks, guys