If the servers have just come back from maintenance and you log in to find your city not there, don't despair! We have NOT gotten rid of your city. You were simply logged onto a different server than the one your city is on.
Head back to the Civ select screen, at the bottom you'll see a little button that says choose realm. Switch to the server you were on originally and VIOLA! You'll find your city intact and in all it's original glory.
The Games for Windows Forums will now be married with the new Xbox forums that just launched yesterday. If you want to discuss this game over on Xbox.com you can now do it in the PC forums.
http://forums.xbox.com/gfw/default.aspx
Now I understand that this forum is likely here to stay, but if you have a Games for Windows LIVE problem then it would be best to head to the new forums if you need more support then what Microsoft Games studios or the developers can give regarding Games for Windows LIVE. The community over there will be much abliged to help you through any technical PC problems that you have regarding the LIVE service on this platform. The technical support forums can be found here, and considering how things are so cludderd on these boards I would take advantage of it.
http://forums.xbox.com/gfw/technical_support/f/253.aspx
Thanks, and look forward to seeing you in our new home.
|||I am working on updating a very old thread with some of the issues from this very board. Thanks...
http://forums.xbox.com/gfw/forum_faq/f/250/p/3047/19843.aspx#19843
|||That thread is... amazing. Nice work!
(saved for future reference)
--Cosy
|||Hi I came here to tell people what helped me. I could not sign in to windows live in age of empires online for pc. I went to portforward.com and setup a static address but that did not work. So I downloaded there free tool to help me setup a static address and that also did not work. But then for the hell of it I clicked on make it dynamic with there tool and that solved my problems. I believe this should be added to a windows live sticky or further investigated, hope this helps someone like me who spent 4 hours trying to get it to work.What a horrible thread this is directed to.
A quote from the guru in the first post, "If you have a complex network setup at home, then its a given that you will need to understand the basics so that you not only can troubleshoot a game conneciton issue, but where you can troubleshoot any new device you try to connect that may not work as you anticipated.
Most of the quesitons I receive or read about seem to center around the basics and what I mean by that is certain terms or acronyms are used and the message is lost due to the need to learn about other things to fix this thing. For those with network knowledge, you should skip ahead. "
Yea, great tech support, blame me for not knowing the basics of uPnP and port forwarding. My "complex network" consists of 1 desktop, 2 laptops, and a 360, I'm running quite the enterprise, maybe I should hire a full time IT support for my complex lynksys G network. I have played dozens of games and the ONLY ones I have had network problems are the ones created by microsoft (Xbox live and AoE 2).
The thread then continues as any thread in this forum does, 10 people posting their exact system info followed by a description of the error or problems they having followed by 10 users guessing on how to fix the problem... but no actual support from a qualified mod.
Thanks for adding another dead end to future googlers searches.
|||I should also clarify the quote I used came from this thread:http://forums.xbox.com/gfw/technical_support/f/253/t/1660.aspx
Which is the same problem I'm having, but didn't have 1 actual microsoft rep/mod/tech person post in it.
Thank you to Bill03948 for this fix:
.NET Framework and Random Map:Scenario Loader Caused An Unhandled Exception Error(s) Fix
Workaround (fix) tested with the following Operating Systems: Windows Home, Windows Media 64 bit, Vista Home Premium
Repro'd: Yes
Basic Information: The game requires additional 3rd party software to run. If the software is not loaded correctly, does not have the proper updates and/or patches or is "to new" of a version it will cause conflicts in the game. The Random Map Error is actually a continuation of the .NET Framework Error and requires additional updates. The game engine does not recognize .NET Framework 4.0 (or higher). If you have 4.0 (or higher) installed you'll have to remove it and go back to 2.0 and update to 3.5.
.NET Framework Error(s)
As explained above, The game engine requires .NET Framework to operate. The version it requires is 3.5. For some reason it will not recognize version 4.0. If you have 4.0 (or higher) on your system it will not detect .NET Framework at all. If you follow these steps it will fix your issue unless you have a specific issue:
NOTE: If at any time your computer asks to Restart follow the Install/Uninstall directions given by the program(s).
1. Go into ADD/REMOVE PROGRAMS and remove all .NET related files.
2. Go to Windows Update from your Start Menu.
3. Update .NET Framework. It will be either version 2.0 or 3.5
4. Follow ALL instructions to install.
5. Once installed, Run Windows Update again for updates and patches. Continue to do so until there's no more updates.
6. Launch AoE Online. The update window should load.
7. If the launch of AoE Online fails, run Windows Update again to see if the program requires additional updates.
8. Once you have the AoE Online Window running click on OPTIONS then FULL SCAN.
9. Once your game is up to date click PLAY.
10. You should now be able to enter the game. If not, check for additional updates/patches in Windows Update.
If you still can't enter the game, Please file a BUG REPORT.
Once in the game you may get a "Black Screen" Error or a black screen with an error message saying "Random Map: scenario Loader Caused An Unhandled Exception". This error message is related to the .NET Framework error message and is a continuation of non updated files and patches.
Random Map Error Fix:
1. Exit the game.
2. Run Windows Update and update ALL .NET Framework files
3. Follow the instructions and Restart if requested.
4. Run the game and try again. If you get the Random Map Error again, follow Steps 1 through 4 again.
NOTE: Average times you have to update again is 2-3 times but can vary.
If all updates are complete and you still get the Error Message, Please File a BUG REPORT
When downloading Age of Empires Online, if you receive a message stating that the download failed here is what you need to do:
1. Uninstall Age of Empires Online from within the Games for Windows - LIVE client.
2. Uninstall the Games for Windows - LIVE client.
3. Reinstall the Games for Windows - LIVE client.
4. Reinstall Age of Empires Online from within the Games for Windows - LIVE client.
Thank you
that worked for me
|||Same problem but solved :-)
I did Kodakroma's tips and at next, after install the game with Games for Windows - LIVE client ( not with mail), I go to programmes files --> microsoft game --> aoeonline and lauch AOEOnline (in administrator) and the download starts
I hope this will be useful :-)
Deso
ps: sorry for my poor english :(
|||very very thanks.. problem solved = )When you launch the game you may be prompted for your Live Access Code. Here is how to find it:
1. Open the Games For Windows Client
2. Click theDownloads tab
3. Click the icon for Age of Empires Online
4. Click View Keys
5. You will see a numerical code under LIVE access code. Enter this code when prompted in-game.
For addition instructions with images, visit this page:http://support.microsoft.com/kb/978129
Support and Troubleshooting FAQ:
Having trouble installing or running Age Of Empires Online? This FAQ thread contains information on common problems and resolutions for users. We will be continually updating this thread as new issues / resolutions arise.
Installation Issues
Beta Users: Remove the Beta from your computer before installing Age Of Empires Online:
Beta installations of the game can on occasion interfere with the downloading and launching of the retail game. Please make sure to remove your beta installation prior to running Age of empires Online
The LIVE service is not supported in my country
Age of Empires Online requires a LIVE gamertag created in a supported region. To see a list of LIVE supported regions, please visit http://www.xbox.com/en-us/live/countries . While users who live outside the supported regions may be able register a new gamertag within a valid region, please be aware doing so will limit the support that can be provided to your account.
Problems with gfwlivesetup_4D530FA3E0000001_DIR.exe.
OR
A network error occurred while attempting to get information from the server / Install failed
This error can occur when you attempt to download and install Age of Empires Online using the web installer. You can resolve this issue by manually installing the Games for Windows – LIVE client and then downloading the game through the Games for Windows Marketplace. Please follow these steps if you encounter this problem:
1. Uninstall the Games for Windows - LIVE client through the computer control panel if it is already installed.
2. Download and install Games for Windows – LIVE from this link: http://www.xbox.com/en-US/LIVE/PC/DownloadClient
2. Login using the same gamertag you used to redeem the code.
3. Navigate to the Downloads section to download and install Age of Empires Online.
4. Run the game as administrator.
Game Launcher / Update Issues:
‘There was an error’ while updating the Age of Empires Online launcher
This error when you failed to pull a specific file from the servers. User’s experience this issue should first attempt to clear their temporary internet files and restart their computer. Try the following solutions if this error occurs regularly:
1.Run a full scan to replace all files. To do this select ‘Options’ on the navigation bar on the top of the game launcher, then select ‘Full Scan.’
2.Open the Window OS task manager and check for a process named conime.exe*32. End this process if it is currently running.
3.Create a new Windows NT user account, download and install the Games for Windows LIVE client, and test to see whether you can run Age of Empires Online.
4.This issue may reflect a large problem with your network settings. You should read through this Games for Windows LIVE troubleshooting thread:Connection Issues FAQ
‘Cannot find Spartan.exe file’ at the Age of Empires launcher
To fix the ‘Cannot find Spartan.exe’ error you should run the launcher, click on the ‘Options’ drop down, and then click on ‘Full Scan.’
When downloading / patching the game, the update fails at scenario.bar
If you previously experienced an issue with the launcher failing while attempting to download scenario.bar;
Run the launcher
Select “Full Scan” from the options menu if the launcher does not automatically update. If you’re still having trouble, let us know what region you are in at this time.
The Granny2.dll file is corrupt or cannot be found message at the launcher
To resolve the error message ‘The granny2.dll file is corrupt’ or ‘The granny2.dll file cannot be found’ message at the launcher select “Options” and choose “Full Scan” from the drop down menu. Run Age of Empires Online as Administrator.
The spartan catalog file is corrupt | The launcher disappears after the black “Updating Patcher” window opens
Run a full scan by selecting “options” and “Full Scan” in the Age Of Empires Online Launcher. If unable; (Full Scan Greyed out) one of our forum users has suggested the following workaround that appears to be working for many users.
The work-around steps are as follows:
1.After installing the game navigate to your installation folder. This is usually C:\Program Files\Microsoft Games\Age of Empires Online\ for 32 bit systems or C:\Program Files(x86)\Microsoft Games\Age of Empires Online\ for 64 bit OSes.
2.Navigate to the “patchTemp” folder inside the Age of Empires Online folder.
3.Select all files in your patchtemp folder and copy them.
4.Navigate ‘up’ back to the Age of Empires Online Directory
5.Paste the copied files into the Age of Empires Online directory and select “Copy and Replace” for all files.
6.Run Age of Empires Online as Administrator
.
‘An instance of the game is already running’ error message at the launcher
This error occurs as a result of the game failing to launch due to improper system permissions. Please follow these steps if you encounter this error message:
1. Launch the game as an administrator from your computer. If this doesn’t work follow steps 2-4:
2. Uninstall just the Games for Windows - LIVE client through the computer control panel.
3. Reinstall just the Games for Windows - LIVE client from this link: http://www.xbox.com/en-US/LIVE/PC/DownloadClient
4. Reinstall Age of Empires Online from within the Games for Windows - LIVE client.
5. Navigate to the directory where you installed the game and run the launcher.exe file as an administrator.
Status Code:8007013D
We have received reports of users experiencing this error when attempting to launch the game. We will update this page when we have found a resolution.
Status Code: 800700e8 or 80153027
We have received reports of users experiencing this error when attempting to redeem codes in the games for windows marketplace. We are investigating the issue and will update this page when available.
Status Code:80070002
We have received reports of users experiencing this error and are investigating it currently. We will update this page when we have found a resolution.
Game Launch / In Game Errors
Invalid product key in-game | Error 0x80070003 when entering LIVE product key in-game
Anyone that purchased the retail version should note that the LIVE Access Code is NOT the same code as the one included in the box
This error message occurs when the game fails to load your LIVE Access Code. Please follow these steps to resolve this issue:
1. Log into your Games For Windows Marketplace client.
2. Click theDownloadstab.
3. Click the icon for Age of Empires Online.
4. ClickView Game Keys.
5. You will see a numerical code under LIVE access code. Enter this code when prompted in-game.
If this doesn’t work, follow steps 6-8:
6. Search for Windows Update from the start bar and click Check for Updates.
7. Run any necessary updates and restart your computer.
8. Run Age of Empires Online again.
More detailed support for this issue can be found here: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/978129
‘APPCRASH’ encountered when you first launch the game
If you run into an APPCRASH when first loading up the game restart your computer and re-launch the game as administrator.
Game Initialization Failed | D3D initialization Failed
Possible Causes
·Video card driver is out of date or corrupted. Install the newest driver.
·Video card is below minimum requirements
·Direct3D is not properly installed. See the following support article: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/179113
·Hardware Acceleration is disabled on the video card
·Application started with the workstation locked
Status Code:800700e8 Can't retrieve information from LIVE. Please try again later.
Errors may occur caused by any of the following issues:
·Applications or processes that interfere with Internet communications
·Resource issues on your computer
·High Internet activity
·Recoverable database errors
Please follow the resolution steps on this page: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/836941
LF004 error when signing into Age of Empires Online
This error code means that you are attempting to connect to a shard that is currently unavailable. If you experience this issue, you should check the server status forum for any updates about the issue. We appreciate your ongoing patience as we resolve any server issue. Thank you!
Error Code: 80070652: Install of Item Failed
If retry fails, delete the item and re-download it. We have had several reports that report that installing the sign-in assistant resolves the problem. The Live sign-in assistant can be found here: http://www.microsoft.com/download/en/details.aspx?id=26686
Random Map: Scenarioloader Caused An Unhandled Exception
Please see the following link for a resolution for this issue: http://forums.ageofempiresonline.com/forums/thread/49127.aspx
Screen issues – Half or Partial Screen Showing
Change the game between full screen and windowed mode should alleviate common display issues. Press Alt + Enter to switch between windowed and Full Screen mode.
Games for Windows Live related issues:
“What ports need to be open to run Age of Empires Online?”
The following ports are required to be open to successfully play Age of Empires Online through the Games for Windows LIVE platform:
TCP 80
UDP 88
UDP 3074
TCP 3074
UDP 53
TCP 53
TCP 443
These ports need to be accessible through both your firewall and your router. For more information about opening ports on your router you should consult the instruction manual. To open ports in Windows 7 you should follow these instructions:
1. Navigate to this path Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Firewall
2. Go to the ‘Advanced Settings’ on the left side of the window
3. Right click on ‘Inbound Rules’ and select ‘New Rule…’
4. Choose to create a new Port rule
5. Select either UDP or TCP and specify the port
6. Repeat steps four and five until you have made rules for all the listed ports
For more information about your current networking settings you can run the Microsoft internet Connectivity Evaluation Tool found here:http://www.microsoft.com/windows/using/tools/igd/default.mspx
“How do I make my offline profile a LIVE enabled profile?”
To make your offline profile a LIVE enabled profile you can click Messages, Friends, or Players, and then click Join LIVE. If you don't have a profile yet, click Create New Profile, and choose Create LIVE Profile.
Games for Windows LIVE error code 8015403A
The Games for Windows LIVE error code 8015403A currently links to the wrong website. You will need to manually sign in at xbox.com using your same Games for Windows LIVE email address and navigate to the account management screen where you will be prompted to accept the new LIVE Terms of Service. Once you have accepted the new Terms of Service, you will be able to successfully log into the Games for Windows LIVE client.
Games for Windows LIVE Technical Support Forums
If you’re having issues with the Games for Windows LIVE client, then the GFWL Technical Support forums can be an invaluable resource. Here are some threads that have been helpful to many community members experiencing issues with the GFWL client:
Games for Windows LIVE Technical Support forums
Connection Issues FAQ
LIVE Connect Issues – Cannot Connect to LIVE
LIVE Troubleshooting – Things to Try First
General PC Gaming Best Practices
PC gaming requires that users maintain up-to-date software and hardware drivers. Occasionally, critical software and hardware drivers do not get updated properly and it prevents us from playing our favorite games. If you’re new to PC game troubleshooting, below are some best practices to maintaining the best PC gaming experience for ANY game played on the Windows operating system:
Install the latest video card drivers –NvidiaorAMD
Install the latest Windows Service Pack –Web Installer
Install Microsoft .NET Framework 4 –Download Installer
Install Microsoft Visual C++ 2010 Redistributable –Download Installer
Install DirectX 9.0c or a newer version of the end-user runtime –DirectX 9.0c Web Installer
Enable Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) on your router
For additional support you can email us at community@ageofempiresonline.com.
