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Showing results for tags 'digital'.
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There are currently several different versions of SimCity 4 Deluxe out in the wild, including the various digital editions (i.e., GOG, Steam, and the now-patched EA App version), the original disc version, and the Steam and App Store versions of Aspyr’s macOS port of the game. As one may have noticed while scrolling the STEX in the past three months, a once uncommon, “Holy Grail” type of mod has begun to appear with some frequency: DLL mods. DLL mods are capable of modifying aspects of the game that have been previously off-limits to SC4 modders over the past 20 years. The two best-known DLL mods prior to this point are, of course, the SC4 Extra Cheats DLL, a file Buggi was authorized to release from the original developers at Maxis, and simmaster07’s revolutionary SC4Fix, which fixed two of the most notorious bugs with the game in a modded environment: the Puzzle Piece vs. Transit-Enabled Lot CTD, and the Prop Pox. Thanks to the efforts of those continuing simmaster07’s line of work, namely Null 45 and memo, these sorts of revolutions are about to become more commonplace, bringing with them everything from improved game stability on modern systems, to long-requested new features and quality-of-life (QoL) improvements. Null 45 has already released over a dozen DLL mods on the STEX since November, one of the most recent of which allows more Building Styles. While I can’t reveal too much at this point in time, I will note that DLL files will become important components of major SC4 mods in the very near future. Suffice to say, we’re entering a very exciting time in the SC4 modding community. There is, however, one caveat with this development: these new DLL mods will only work with Version 1.1.641 digital editions of the game on the Windows platform, while the older Windows disc versions and the Aspyr macOS port (in all its guises) will not be supported. To those users who are running those versions, this almost certainly comes as a grave disappointment. There are, however, technical reasons that pose essentially insurmountable barriers toward bringing this new and exciting DLL-based functionality to those versions of the game, and effectively render them "legacy versions" of SC4: Back in December 2017, simmaster07 had produced a mod known as SC4MacInjector, which provided a means for DLL-based mods to be converted into .so files and run in the macOS port via injection. Unfortunately, the changes that Apple made in macOS Catalina (10.15) effectively broke SC4MacInjector permanently, forcing simmaster07 to discontinue it in June 2020. With Apple moving to discontinue x86 architecture support in the near future, SC4MacInjector’s days were likely numbered either way. With regards to the Windows disc-based versions of SC4, Microsoft’s removal of the secdrv.sys driver from Windows 10 effectively broke the SafeDisc copy protection system that EA used, thereby preventing the disc version from running (at least without complicated or legally questionable workarounds). The fact that the disc versions’ hardcoded aspects are also differently-structured (and encrypted) complicates the prospects of providing support for it to the point of practical impossibility. For those of you running the Aspyr macOS port, unfortunately, Apple’s constant drastic changes to macOS and their entire hardware architecture have taken that version of the game out of the running. The only option to play on Mac with these new developments is some form of dual-booting and/or WINE with a digital copy of the Windows version of the game (which can readily be made to run on Linux). If you happen to be playing on the Steam version, you have access to the Windows version at no additional cost, since SC4 is a SteamPlay title. Unfortunately, with the App Store version, there is no such crossplay option available, and one will have to purchase a new copy. In order for these developments to work directly with the Mac version, Aspyr would need to patch the game, preferably allow direct reading of .so files (the Mac equivalent of DLL files) without code injection or running afoul of Apple's "Hardened Runtime" feature. Given that Aspyr, while updating their port to deal with Apple's myriad drastic mandatory architecture changes over the years, has refrained from even issuing an equivalent of the 20-year-old 1.1.638/EP1 patch for the Mac port, or the almost-as-old 1.1.640/BAT nightlighting patch--the odds are even longer that they would do this. For those on the disc on Windows, acquiring a legal Version 1.1.641 digital copy is the only way to get this functionality. Redeeming your CD Key with EA (via the EA App--EA Help can assist with this if one encounters difficulties) is one way to get one without having to buy the game again. The other option is to wait for the GOG edition to go on sale (typical sale price is US$4.99)--since GOG's digital edition is DRM-free, it’ll be more “yours” than the disc version ever could be, as evidenced by the disc’s old DRM/copy protection scheme thwarting its use on newer versions of Windows. (And acquiring some sort of pirated/"cracked" version is, of course, a violation of ST Guidelines, Section 5(a).) Again, in short: Version 1.1.641 Windows Digital Copies - Supported Version 1.1.640 and earlier Windows Disc Copies - Not Supported (but CD Key may be redeemable for free Version 1.1.641 digital copy with EA) macOS Port on Steam - Not Supported (but SteamPlay offers free Windows Version 1.1.641 digital copy with Steam for dual-boot/WINE use) macOS Port on App Store - Not Supported (no option for compatible free replacement, purchase new copy) All Other Versions - Not Supported (no option for compatible free replacement, purchase new copy) Pirated/"Cracked" Copies - Not Supported, and in violation of ST Guidelines, Section 5(a). -Tarkus- 81 Replies
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I recently had the urge to play SC4 again after at least seven years after my old laptop bit the dust. After failed attempts to revive it, I decided that I would just purchase another copy. I found and downloaded a copy from Origin. I realized, after trying to add the NAM plug-in, that the version I purchased (v1.1.610) could not be upgraded to use it. So, what is the easiest way to get the newest version?
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Question about NAM Compatibility with Digital Version of SC4 Rush Hour
Lightbearer59 posted a topic in NAM & Transit Networks
Hello, I have not been here for a few years when Windows 10 cancelled my disc version of SC4Rush Hour. I finally got a digital version of SC4 Rush Hour on Steam and I am enjoying it again. I am wondering about to compatibility of NAM and if I need any upgrades or updates to SC4 Rush Hour before I try to install NAM. I had a real old version of NAM that worked fine with my Disc version years ago but I am wondering how can I tell if it will work with my current digital version from steam. I have tried other lots and even mods and they seem to work just wondering where I stand or how I can check the version number for my new copy? Thanks for any help and sorry if this is the wrong forum for this. -
Can't Make a Purchase on GoG / Alternatives?
RobertLM78 posted a topic in SimCity 4 General Discussion
I'm guessing it is because i live in the united states. Anyone know of an alternative for a fully patched digital copy? (I'm really not a fan of being blocked out from GoG) -
Hello, I recently purchased SimCity 4 through Origin, a mistake I quickly remedied by requesting a refund after I was unable to install an old favorite, NAM. I'm now torn between Steam and Gog. Will one or either work?
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Hello everyone. I am looking to repurchase the game. I have the disc version of the game, but to my disappointment, It seems to not be working correctly. I have tried multiple ways to fix the problem but nothing seems to work. Luckily, I have enough simoleons to go around. So purchasing a digital form of the game is my next step. As you might've guessed I am looking to purchase from a source that will allow me to correctly update the game, mod it, etc just like the regular disc version. I know STEAM and GOG have it. I would like to hear everyone's take about the best way to continue my fun with this game,as I have played it since launch in 2003, yikes..... Thanks in advance.
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Well , my old Vista PC seen it's last day . Now I have a new PC , Windows 10 . So CD's no work anymore . I tried to purchase the digital DL unsuccessfully .GOG and my financial institute are not wanting to play well . So , what I need to know is , where else can I purchase an updated SC4 game for a US resident ? Any and all help will be much appreciated . Thanks Raynev1
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Where to download SimCity 4? (Old timer looking for help)
darren posted a topic in SimCity 4 General Discussion
Hi This is my 1st visit here in about 10 years, I recently thought id dig out my copy of simcity4 and have a play but cant find it anywhere so will have to rebuy it. I never knew about SimCity 2013 is it worth getting that instead of SimCity 4? Are the patchs/updates still continued from EA games? Also i made a few mods that I uploaded to this forum back in 2003 how do I find those to use in my cities, Im just trying to find my way around this site thats all new to me now. -
I'm not sure where to place this topic so I decided to start here with technical issues. I want to buy the 3 disc set from Simtropolis (I'm tired of searching forever for custom content on the STEX - I like organised/categorised searching so I can more easily pick and choose). As I use Windows 7, I discovered I will need the WinCDEmu cd/dvd/emulator if I want to download digitally rather than wait the 3-4 weeks delivery within Canada. I have never used this type of imaging software so I don't understand how it works exactly. Where does the information reside exactly? Is it on my computer once I set up the extra drive ie: V drive or elsewhere. ?? Can someone explain this to me please? Sorry about the dumb question, but I am more of the "concrete" mindset and age - the cloud still sounds rather airy/fairy to me I presume I can place this on my external hard drive which is 1 terabyte? Just so I know, how big (gigs) are the 3 disc contents anyway. Maybe one of the staff can tell me. Thank you for any enlightenment on this.
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While I'm currently using my DVD-based SC4D on my desktop, I'm considering purchasing/downloading a digital, DRM-free copy. I want to be able to run SC4D on my WIN10 laptop when I travel, and I want to add all the neat toys such as NAM, etc. Are there any sources better than others, such as STEAM vs. Amazon vs. ???? Thanks! BK
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Hiya! I read this: http://www.guru3d.com/news-story/you-shouldnt-buy-simcity-4-from-origin.html which (by googling) led me to this: https://simtarkus.wordpress.com/2014/08/24/psa-dont-buy-simcity-4-from-origin/ So, it seems there are 3 or more digital versions of the game available. If I'm remembering correctly, A Nonny Moose said something about the Steam version being invasive and requiring online verification each time you start the game. Also, something about them (or a different version) adding their name into the header of something or other which causes problems using custom content. I have a dedicated, non-connected to the internet comp specifically for my SimCity 4 and a few other games. I currently have the CD version installed and it works fine. I am, however, considering buying the digital version so I don't have to swap discs for each game I play. Which version is the most NAM and other custom content friendly? Do they specifically state which region it's for? Like I'd want my road traffic to drive on the right side of the road as it is my current Sku1_US edition. Also, do the digital versions work on XP Pro SP3? Thanks.
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I bought SC4 Deluxe via download from Amazon. The executable file is version 1.1.164.0. Does this version require any of the patches? Only asking because the lights at night do not appear on many of the bridges. I tried some of the patches but received messages patches were not applied. Thanks ahead of time for any assistance.
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Looking for a digital version of SC4 Deluxe on the cheap?
AcmeSigns posted a topic in SimCity 4 General Discussion
How does $4.99 sound? Then look no further than gog.com. I don't know if this is a limited-time-offer or not, but it's a heck of a deal. Then you don't have to worry about the safety of your disc or needing a NoCD hack.
