Can't reinstall Red Alert 2 on Windows 7

This should be related to a windows update, they decided to disable the SafeDisc copy protection. This decision leads to a lot of problems since many old games require SafeDisc. However, you can uninstall the update and disable it. Google for "KB3086255" and you should find a couple of tutorials to get rid of it

I think the easiest thing to do is to download and install the multiplayer-only version from the Downloads section of xwis.net (RA2/YR/TS online server, sponsored by EA), then copy all your MIX files from both your RA2 disks into the same folder. Then as usual, run the game in admin mode.

@jhawk95337

EA is currently giving away RA2 for free on their Origin On The House feature. That should get you around your CD install problems 😉

I followed the instructions to turn off the service so i could reinstall the application.

Now I'm getting ***FATAL*** String manager failed to initialize properly

I have set all *.exe files and the Short cut to XP Service Pack 3 compatible and Run as Admin compatibility settings.

Any ideas?

@jhawk95337: Make sure you both install AND run the game as administrator.

Really though, I'd pick up the Origin version if I were you. No harm in keeping your options open, after all, and it's a temporary offer, so better get it while they're handing it out.

I installed Red Alert 3 and Yuri's Revenge from Origen

Now I'm getting ***FATAL*** String manager failed to initialize properly.

Any ideas?