Widescreen resolution support?

[SirBean]

I was wondering if there is a way to have this game run in Widescreen 16:9 resolutions? I haven't seen this documented any where on these forums.

I have already tried to use the custom resolution option in .ini file, but any attempt at changing it through there results in the game running in its default 1024x768 resolution.

Any ideas what I may be doing wrong? Am I even doing anything wrong or will the game simply not run at widesreen resolutions? Are there any user fixes for this?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Equisilus]

I'm running mine at 1680x1050, so it's definitely doable, and it was an option in the drop down list of resolutions in game without editing the .ini file. Are you editing the proper file (found in \My Documents\My Games\Sid Meier's Civilization 4) and the proper lines:

;
ScreenHeight = 0

; Custom Screen Resolution, ex: 1200x1200 - Normal resolutions can be set in-game and will be used when both values are set to 0
ScreenWidth = 0

...?

What resolution are you trying?

 

[SirBean]

Those are the two lines I tried to edit, trying for 1280x720. I was having trouble trying to load the game in Full Screen mode to fit my resolution (was getting that foolish rendering error message), so that was my attempt to somehow fix things.

If it's an option in the graphics settings, I suppose I'll have to take a harder look. XD

 

[SirBean]

Ok... So I still haven't been able to play at 1280x720.

Here's a recap of my situation

Problems: I can't start the game in Full Screen mode without getting the fabled "renderer" error message.
Solution: Disabled Full Screen mode in the INI file.

The game now starts up in its default 1024x768. Until...

New Problem: Resolutions can't be changed in the graphic options.
Solution(?) : Set the resolution in the INI.

Except.... this doesn't work. Even if I try the run the game in Full Screen with the custom resolution, it always, on every occasion, defaults itself to 1024x768 (This is inferred by the error message I get when attempting to run the game in Full screen mode).

This wouldn't be a problem if it wasn't for the fact that those 48 pixels being cut off on the bottom blocks access to important options, like exiting the game (maybe this was intentional...? <.< ).

Now what am I supposed to do? D:

EDIT: I also forgot to add that when I disable Full screen mode, I cannot change the resolution in the graphics options. In fact, there is nothing at all listed in the resolution, the drop down menu is blank.

 

[Woody]

I think the problem is your trying to enter a number that is lower than the minimum res supported by the game, ie the 720 in your 1280 X 720 is less than the 768 of the minimum res of 1024 X 768. Once it sees that smaller number the game defaults back to 1024 x 768.

 

[SirBean]

If that's the case, I'm boned. I'm playing on my TV... ><

 

[SirBean]

An update... of sorts. As it turns out Civ4 does not and will not support 720p resolutions (which is what DVI outputs), but natively supports 1080i resolutions. My only recourse was to purchase a DVI-to-Component video adapter and appropriate cables in order to play at 1080i.

To other 720p owners out there: You should expect to pay (after getting the necessary equipment) roughly $100 or more for a $50 game.

 

[Zfrost]

Thanks for the followup Mr. Bean. I have been lurking hoping you would find an answer.

I have a Samsung DLP with a 15 pin monitor input. Civ4 is the first issue I have had using this TV as a PC monitor. (Except for this Civ4 720 issue this TV kicks butt as a monitor)

I have a DVI port on the back of my ATI vid card so I guess i can look into getting a converter. How does the screen look? Do you lose any sharpness?


*There is a terrible irony in having a 50" monitor and a game that won't fit on the screen.*

 

[Zfrost]

I switched my ATI card to 1024x768. I then used my TV remote to change the picture size from "Wide PC" to "Standard". (I feel like an idiot for not thinking of this before) I now have a clear 4:3 picture of my desktop on my Samsung DLP.

The game still fails when it try to start in fullscreen mode, so I switched to "windowed mode" in the CIV4.ini and then maximized the window to fill the screen.

Everything is clear and crisp. I suspect running in "windowed mode" will hurt the performance so I'm interested in more of the details of SirBean's DVI-to-Component video adapter. Who makes it? Where did you buy it? Are you happy with it? etc.

Like I said performance is a concern, but at least I can finally play.

 

[SirBean]

ATI makes an adapter, this one specifically:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16814999203

I'm hoping once I have everything set up, I'll be able to play at 1080i and run Civ4 in 1280x720 Fullscreen.

I have the same TV as you, Zfrost, and like you, this is the first game that has ever given me trouble, and I have been using the DVI I/O since I bought the TV a couple of years ago. <.<

Soooo, I'll post results once my order arrives on Tuesday or Wednesday and maybe we can compare.

 

[SirBean]

After some configuration tweaks, the adapter works perfectly.

Only issues are that fine, horizontal lines at high resolutions "flicker" and colors are slightly darker overall (though that can be adjusted manually).

I've noticed some of my other games, FFXI in particular, don't like 1080i resolutions for whatever reason, so I have to switch between 1080i and 720p using ATI's Catalyst Control Center.

Other than that, it works like a charm and I can finally play and enjoy the widescreen goodness.