How to Install Windows 95 Games on Windows XP

Some Windows 95 games will install and work without any additional hassle on Windows XP. However, some require a little extra work. Luckily, Windows comes with a nifty little addition called "Program Compatibility Mode." Program Compatibility Mode emulates the environment of previous Windows platforms (all the way back to Windows 95). With this mode active, most games and utilities designed to work on Windows 95 will work and display properly on Windows XP.

Instructions

1. Insert the CD-ROM or floppy into the Windows XP machine. Click the "Start" button in the taskbar and select "Run."

2. Click "Browse." Click the dropdown box and select the "D" drive if you inserted a disc or the "3 1/2 Floppy" drive if you inserted a floppy.

3. Locate the exe. file (there will only be one). Right click the exe. file and select "Properties."

4. Click the "Compatibility" tab. Select "Run this program in compatibility mode" and choose Windows 95. Under display settings, choose "Disable visual themes."

5. Click "Apply" followed by "OK." Double click the exe. file again to begin the installation. If your game requires multiple disc or floppys, you will not be required to put it in Windows 95 Mode again. However, when you want to install a new game, you will have to manually activate Windows 95 Mode each time.

References

• Windows Program Compatibility Mode