First off I wanted to know how do I post all the information for my computer so you can tell me if I got a good one or not?

Second, I have a lot of games that I downloaded on my other computer, I think I hope I have the install files on all of them. Can I just backup that file and reinstall them on this computer? I had XP and now have Windows 7.

I'm sure I will have more questions but I don't want to get to far ahead.

Thank you for any help
Lori

What is the brand and model of your computer?

Draclvr

Its a Dell Studio XPS sx8100-2777NBC

Lori

These folks seem to have some kind words for it -

Dell Studio XPS sx8100-2777NBC Review (PC Magazine)

Looks like a fairly nice PC

Thank you InlandAZ

Lori

EDIT: What exactly is a Blu-ray drive. As the card that came with the computer to make the backup said I either need a USB key with minimum of 8 GB or DVD-R/DVD+R/Blu-ray Disc?

I just read that issue and when I read the review of this computer, my reaction was, "NO BLOATWARE!!" Looks like you made a very nice buy there, ShyTy.

All the definitions for Blu-ray that I found are really technical. Suffice it to say that Blu-ray is video that is simply incredible in its high definition. With the right player and monitor or TV, it blows away DVDs. But if you don't plan on watching the best in Hi-Def movies on your computer, you probably don't need it anyway.

I'd vote for the 8 GB flash drive for your backup!

Thanks Draclvr, I don't watch movies on my computer, I just play games. I already did the backup on 2 DVD+R as thats all that the store had that I went to and I wanted to make sure I got it done before I did anything.

Can you or anyone help me with the games question?

Thanks
Lori

If you have the installation files, you may be able to reinstall on the new computer. It might vary from game to game. Inland or Jenny will know more that I do.

As far as how gaming and Windows 7 is going, you might want to read the thread stickied at the top of the Glitches Forum. We're all having unexpected good luck with Win 7 and our older games.

The downloaded games should install just fine in the new PC. The only time I've run into issues with downloads is when the activation count exceeds the allowable limit (and most allow up to 6 activations).

I believe Big Fish allows you to re-download your purchases as many times as you like, as does Good Old Games. Unfortunately other distributers do not. However, if you've still got the files on the old PC you can simply burn them to a CD (or set up an ad-hoc network connection) and transfer them that way.

Copying the folder you installed them to won’t do much good. The installer generally sets up a set of registry keys and a unique fingerprint is generated on your hard drive during activation (the fingerprint can’t be transferred).

I lost all of my downloads about a year ago - issues with my hard drive and OS upgrades caused my activation count to exceeded the limit. The distributers (not Big Fish or GOG) could have cared less. Their solution was to re-purchase the games. I avoid downloads like the plague now, although I did pick up another copy of Lost Souls again when it was on sale a few weeks ago.

I was wondering if in most of these games I download or install from my flash. Is it best to put them all in my documents and not program files?

Thanks
Lori

I have all my games in Program Files (x86) and every one of them plays just fine. I have heard mention of a few that don't play well from there, but I haven't run into any yet.

Okay, thanks I had read that on several also so didn't know if they needed to be in my documents.

Thank you
Lori

Try them from the Program Files (x86) folder and see what happens. If any cause problems, you can always move them.

Okay will do.

Thanks
Lori

You can keep the install files in your Documents folder - once they install they will go to Program Files (x86) or your User folders if you specify them at install time.

ShyTy,

I checked out your new computer and it looks great. I am very envious! Enjoy it!

Thank you very much gatsbygirl, I'm sorry your envious, but thanks again and I think I will enjoy it!

Lori

For the time being it looks like I am going to have to try and update the computer I have. Maybe a new one will be in my budget next year. Unless I win the Lottery! Somebody has to win, right?

Have fun with your new one!