Age.. re read the posting slowly..
You have to install SFC 3 fresh and clean... no mods or anything else added.. just the game by itself off the disk.. say no to Direct x 8.1 and say no to Gamespy Arcade
then Download and install
SFC 3 Patch 1.01 beta 2 build v 500
then download and install
SFC 3 patch 1.01 Beta 2 build v531
then right click on your SFC 3desktop icon, click properties.. in the box that pops up click on the compatibility tab and put a checkmark in the small square next to "Disable Visual Themes"
Click OK
make sure you ahve all the updates from Windows Update (click start button then click windows updates.. follow instructions on web page)
do not get driver updates from microsoft, go to your device manufacturers we site.. such as
www.nvidia.com if you have a NVidia video card.. and get the drivers from them....
then try game...
you should be all patched up and ready for modding.