Red Alert 2 Crashes on Windows 11 After Changing Resolution

[kimkorton998]

Hi everyone,

I’ve been trying to play Red Alert 2 on my Windows 11 PC using CNCNet, but I’m running into an issue when changing the in-game resolution. Here’s what’s happening:For anyone editing videos of these retro games or making tutorials, apps like CapCut can help elevate your content with features like overlays, motion tracking, or even retro-style effects to complement the classic game aesthetics

1. The game installs and launches fine, and I can play skirmishes and campaigns at the default resolution.
2. When I try to change the resolution to match my monitor (1920x1080), the game either crashes immediately or displays a black screen with the audio still playing.

 

What I’ve tried so far:

1. Enabled compatibility mode (Windows XP and Windows 7) and checked the "Run as Administrator" option.
2. Edited the ra2.ini file to manually set the resolution, but the game resets it after launching.
3. Installed the CNCNet client, and while the client itself runs fine, the issue persists in-game.
4. Updated my graphics drivers and tried running the game on both my dedicated GPU and integrated graphics.

 

System Details:

• OS: Windows 11 Pro (64-bit)
• GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060
• Resolution: 1920x1080 (native)
• CNCNet client version: Latest

I’d appreciate any advice on:

1. Fixing resolution-related crashes in Red Alert 2.
2. Ensuring the game runs smoothly on Windows 11.
3. Whether there are specific CNCNet settings I should enable or tweak.

Thanks in advance for your help!

Edited December 28, 2024 by kimkorton998

[Hottwire]

Hi,

 

Once the game is patched you may need to change the renderer 

CnC-DDraw works best for full screen and TS-DDraw works best for windowed mode, alternatively trial and error to find the best supported one for you may vary.

You shouldn't need to modify the compatibility mode (I'd turn this off and try the above first)

Alternatively you can review the videos below:

Here's an in depth tutorial on how to play RA2YR using CnCNet. 

https://youtu.be/_EBqST0AZ9k?si=o4iPqQ4ffeXaehJY

Here's an updated campaign tutorial, and how to get the game on Steam!

https://youtu.be/4MfOurHaQP4?si=zrslaZTqwLIYtExD