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Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallSome PC games use the original CD as a copy-protection check when you start the game, even after installation has copied the game files to your computer. It is not a universal rule for CD-ROM games: the requirement depends on the specific game and edition, and some titles check for a disc only at a particular point.
Why a game asks for its CD after installation
Installation and launch checks serve different purposes. A game can install its files to the hard drive but still require the original disc to be present when it starts. Microsoft describes this behavior as copy protection; SecuROM explains that a publisher can configure a protected application to check for the original disc at launch. Microsoft’s archived explanation and SecuROM’s disc-check FAQ describe these as title-dependent behaviors, not a requirement for every game released on CD.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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The Baldur's Gate Collection (EU) | $9.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Sid Meier's Civilization V - PC | $20.75 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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Zuma (Mac/PC CD) | $36.02 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
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The Sims 2 - PC | $4.50 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
![Pc-Cd Rom - Hitman Codename 47 - [CD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41dUtzSBDVL._SL160_.jpg)
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Pc-Cd Rom - Hitman Codename 47 - [CD] | $25.97 | Buy on Amazon |
Examples of games with documented disc checks
Microsoft’s archived list names games and editions that may require their original CDs, including:
- Age of Empires II and III, and Age of Mythology
- Dungeon Siege, Freelancer, and Halo: Combat Evolved
- Microsoft Flight Simulator editions, Rise of Nations editions, Train Simulator, and Zoo Tycoon editions
This is a historical Microsoft list, last reviewed October 2, 2006—not a complete catalog of all PC games or a statement about every edition. Check the instructions or support information for the exact copy you own. Microsoft’s archived list
#1 Best Overall
- Baldurs Gate 4 In 1 Compilation.
- Features: Special 4-game DVD-ROM.
- Play the original Baldur's Gate game.
- Includes Tales of The Sword Coast Expansion.
- Explore unseen lands as you take part in an epic conflict that will define your future, and create your legend. Venture into a deadly new dungeon.
Some games check for a disc only at a particular point
A disc request does not always happen every time the game starts. Star Wars Support says that Mysteries of the Sith Companion Missions asks for the original Jedi Knight game CD #2 the first time the missions are played, as a copy-protection check. This is a specific example; it does not establish how other releases behave. Star Wars Support
What “Please insert the correct CD-ROM” can mean
For some listed copy-protected games, Microsoft says the game CD must be in the drive to run. The message can also occur if the original game disc or the optical drive cannot read it. Start with these checks:
Rank #2
- Successful diplomacy will depend on players carefully managing relationships with other leaders
- Expanded visuals and immersive audio invite would-be kings to take up the reigns of power and forge a mighty empire
- An intuitive interface eases both new players and Civ veterans into the game
- The addition of ranged bombardment allows players to fire weapons from behind the front lines
- Choose one of eighteen historical civilizations to lead from the stone-age to the space age
- Confirm that you inserted the original disc for the game, and the correct disc if the game came on more than one.
- Check whether the optical drive can read the disc. A disc that is damaged or a drive that cannot read it may prevent the game from recognizing it.
- If the game still will not start, consult support information for that exact title and edition. Disc recognition does not by itself resolve possible copy-protection or operating-system compatibility problems.
Microsoft’s support article discusses disc and drive readability as possible causes, but it does not provide a fix that applies to every game or modern computer. Microsoft Support
Playing a disc-based game without a built-in drive
A USB external CD/DVD drive can provide access to the physical disc if your computer has no optical drive. It cannot guarantee that a particular game’s legacy copy protection or software will work with your current operating system. Hardware access and compatibility are separate questions.
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Rank #3
- Explore over 20 secret jungle temples
- Two captivating game modes: Adventure and Gauntlet
- Stunning sound effects and entrancing tribal tunes.
- Use power-ups and combos to boost your high score
- Unlimited “Deluxe” version – no internet connection needed
If the original disc is missing or damaged, a replacement original disc or boxed copy may be an option, but confirm that it matches your game edition. Do not assume a different disc or a digital copy will satisfy a physical-disc check.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Physical and digital editions can have different terms
Requirements can also depend on how a specific release is authenticated. For example, the Medal of Honor: Spearhead EULA hosted on Steam says that, for physical-media software when the user does not choose online authentication, the disc must remain in the drive after installation to use the software. That clause is limited to the stated media and authentication choice; it should not be applied to digital editions or other games. Electronic Arts’ EULA for Medal of Honor: Spearhead
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Plan each assignment carefully to account for a variety of weapons, surveillance data and multiple paths to completion.
- Access black market weapons, decoys, traps and personnel.
- Sharpen your skills through advanced weapons and agility training.
Rank #4
- Electronic Arts 14726 Sims 2 PC
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