Can't start Civ IV...help much appreciated!

[JenCiv]

Hello, newbie here. I've read through many threads and tried some suggestions but I'm still having problems starting Civ IV. I got it for X-mas and have not been able to play it yet!!!

Installation was no problem, and the game seems to start fine. It goes through all the "Init" this and that with no problem, then goes to the short video (lots of red) that ends with the "2k" in a box at the end. After that, it goes to a black screen with some white spaces on the bottom of the screen, then quits. All I see is my desktop.

I've patched with v1.52.

I've included my "DxDiag" file...if anyone can help, it'd be much, much appreciated!!

Thanks,
Jen

 

[asmodai]

After that 2k intro you should see the Firaxis intro, do you see that one?

 

[kris55]

Found the problem... your graphics. 100%.

The problem is the amount of memory your graphics has is only 32mb, 64mb is needed to make it run. Its also a built in one, by the details in the DxDaig file. I also can see that the 32mb memory it does have is shared from your RAM, which is not good at all for games.

Your processor speed should be ok to run the game, but a future upgrade should be considered. I would also think about adding another module of memory if you can.

A graphics card that would run civ 4: (Nvidia)
Min:
Fx5500 64mb memory
Average:
Fx5900 128mb memory
Excellent
Fx6600 128mb memory
very very good:
Fx6800 128 or 256mb memory

I hope this helps, and i hope you get to play it soon

 

[asmodai]

Thanks kris55.
Being at work I cannot read each and every DxDiag.txt. =\

 

[JenCiv]

Mmmm....figures that I need to spend more money argh!

Civilization is worth it though (the first 3 have been!) so out comes the credit card for upgrades...will post when all's done - and hopefully I'll be writing in the forum with tips instead of issues.

Thanks and happy new year kris55 & asmodai!
Jen