Hello,
Sometimes you need to force directplay to run.
Go to the sfc configuration settings or the sfc.ini depending on your version UK or US respectively.
Here are my settings,
[Meta]
Name=worfhonour@yahoo.co.uk
Password=anthony
MapName=Map4.mvm
TestPatchUtility=1
EmpireMapView=1
Nickname=john
MapDetail=0
NewsSort=0
BehindNAT=1
You need to add the last line.
This forces directplay to run on a new log-in.
Also check this out, same folder:-
[UI]
UIType=0
QuickTip=1
Grid=0
OrderDelay=30
HeadingDisplay=0
SkipUpsell=1
ASCIICharacterSet=0
Language=English
GameSpeed=9
TextSpeed=30
TacDisplayRes=6
MakeItSo=1
this enable you to play the game without the CD.
Hope that helps,
Worfy