Why Can't Vista Run DOS Games?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the challenges of running DOS games on the Windows Vista operating system, exploring the compatibility issues and potential solutions through emulation and virtualization.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Exploratory, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant states that Vista is a different operating system, which contributes to the inability to run DOS games natively.
  • Another participant mentions the use of emulators, specifically highlighting "DOSBox" as a popular option for running DOS games within Vista.
  • A further contribution discusses "Virtual PC 2007" as an alternative, noting that it requires installation of MS-DOS in a virtual machine and lacks USB controller support, suggesting that DOSBox might be preferable for games needing controllers.
  • One participant provides a brief setup instruction for configuring a specific game, indicating a resolution setting and mounting a directory.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple approaches to running DOS games on Vista, with no consensus on a single best solution, indicating a variety of opinions on the effectiveness of different methods.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the lack of detailed technical specifications for the games in question, potential compatibility issues with specific titles, and the varying effectiveness of the suggested solutions based on individual user needs.

Mr. Pimp
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Why can't vista run DOS games?
 
Computer science news on Phys.org
Because it is a different operating system.

There are emulators and such that let you run DOS games virtually inside Vista, however. I think "DOSBox" is the one most people use.
 
In addition to DosBox, there's also Virtual PC 2007 (free from Microsoft), but you have to install msdos into the virtual machine. Virtual PC 2007 doesn't support USB controllers, so DosBox may be better for games that need controllers.
 
Ya set up 640x480screen resolution.mount c c:\oldgames.cdkeen5.
 

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