Play old games under Windows 7 - how it works

Old games that were developed for operating systems before Windows 7 or 8 often do not start on the new Windows versions. With the help of the compatibility mode, however, it is not a problem to pretend an older operating system.

Start old games in Windows compatibility mode

With the compatibility mode you get the old games running again. The necessary settings can be found in the properties of the start file of the respective game:

1. First find the game's start file. This is usually located in a subfolder in the "Programs" or "Programs (x86)" directory. The folder name usually corresponds to that of the game or the manufacturer. The start file is in exe format and usually has the name of the game.
2. If you have installed a game on Steam, you can find the file more quickly: To do this, right-click on it, select "Properties" and click on "Search local files" under "Local files".
3. If you have a shortcut on your desktop, you can also look in the shortcut properties for the game path.
4. Right-click on the start file and select "Properties".
5. Switch to the "Compatibility" tab.
6. Check "Run program in compatibility mode for" and select the operating system for which the game was designed from the list.
7. Finally click on "OK" and start the classic game again.

Old games in Windows 7 - tips and tricks

If it still doesn't work, try the following tips and tricks.

• Some old games only work with a processor. To simulate this, download the Task Assignment Manager. Unzip the program and start it. Now create a new profile for your game and select "CPU 0". The game is then operated with only one core.
• Switch the game to windowed mode.
• Create a virtual machine and install the game there.
• If these tips do not help either, your desired game is most likely not compatible with any Windows 7 method.

You can also emulate classic consoles like "Legends of Zelda: Wind Waker" on your computer.