GameBanshee Forums

So, I recently purchased a new computer (Mac IBook, G4, pretty standard computer). It isn't anything flashy, but at this point in my life I'm not on my home computer more than 20 mins/day, so it's not a big deal.

I would, however, like to start a new BGII SOA/TOB game. However, when I recently tried to install SOA on my new computer, the disk is unreadable. I think that the install disk was stuck inside the cardboard envelope for so long (years, at this point) that it has gunk on it. Thus, my dilemma- I need to either clean the old disk or buy a new copy of the game. So, all you old-school BGers out there, which one is advisable? I guess I'm just going to try to clean the CD, but I wanted to know if anyone really thought there was a good reason to buy a new copy. Thanks!

(PS-I have ToB, so I think that I'll have the latest version of whatever patch is necessary)

I'd suggest Amazon, or eBay--especially Amazon. Used copies go on sale all the time, there, sometimes for an excellent price.

But first, make sure the problem is your disk. If there isn't anything visible on it, try it in a slower drive, or slow down your own drive, using Windows controls. Sometimes disks can be read at a slower speed that fail at faster ones.

[QUOTE=fable]But first, make sure the problem is your disk. If there isn't anything visible on it, try it in a slower drive, or slow down your own drive, using Windows controls. Sometimes disks can be read at a slower speed that fail at faster ones.[/QUOTE]
There is actually some visible gunk on it. I think it is some glue or something from the packaging. I've never cleaned a CD before though, so I'm not sure how well it will work...

A simple Google returned a list of sites with instructions on how to clean CDs. I suggest starting here.

Cuchulain82 , I may have an extra install disk laying around here somewhere. I bought a second game because I had a bum disk 4 in my original game. Give me a couple of days and if I find it, you can have it.

[QUOTE=Pellinore]Cuchulain82 , I may have an extra install disk laying around here somewhere. I bought a second game because I had a bum disk 4 in my original game. Give me a couple of days and if I find it, you can have it.[/QUOTE]
Wow Pellinore, that would be great! It has to be a Mac disk, but if it is, then that would make my life a lot easier (and cheaper). Like I said, all I need is the install disk.

@fable

Thanks for the link. I actually found that site myself already. I'm going to wait to hear back from Pellinore before I dip my disk in alcohol though...

Well, it doesn't say anywhere on the cd or the packaging but I have a PC, not a MAC. I guess mine is designed for windows only but it doesn't state that anywhere. I'm not much with computers . Just say the word, though and I'll send it to you....as soon as I locate the second one. Found one set now I need to find the old set.

Alas, if you have a PC Pellinore, it will do me no good. shucks! Oh well... I'll clean the CD and deal w/e-bay if I have to. Thanks anyway.

If it's gunk or even scratches I bet it's possible to either buy a "Disk Doctor" or some other repair package that would let you clean up that cd (and others) instead of going to the trouble of getting a new one.

Especially since it won't leave you with a cd with nothing to do with.

Or pay some other shmuk

Most large "video" hire places have a machine to repair/clean DVD's and will be able to tell you if cleaning it is likely to work. - Curdis !

@Curdis, DeadAlready

Yeah, that's the route I think I'm heading towards. I was at the Apple store here in NYC the other day and I was tempted to buy it and just be done with it (I'm impulsive like that) but the game is so old that it wasn't even there.

In any case, I'll probably clean the CD. I'm also considering switching games :speech: and finally giving NWN a fair shake...

Just try warm soap and water first. It works 80% of the time!

Good luck!