2 problems with XP

[jon]

K I have two problems with xp that I can't seem to fix,
before I reformatted my HD I didn't have them so maybe
that's the cause, but I can't be sure.

1. Certain software or games can't install because they
get a "Catastrophic failure" message. I also have a
problem (only with games) where sprites cause games to
crash, could be video card related but my card is up to
date.

2. Minor but annoying problem with my Windows XP
desktop. My toolbar and windows have for some reason
reset themselves to the Classic Windows style. In
otherwoards, my toolbar and windows aren't colorful and it
looks like I'm running Windows 98se. Just something I
wanna fix.

I had to reformat my HD the first time because of the
blaster bug. I don't want to, but if I can't fix these
problems I'll probably reformat again. If you know what I
can try to fix them please let me know.

 

[xe77]

Troubleshoot a possible hardware problem with your Video
Card.
1. Lower the Graphics accelleration from the Display
Properties applet in the Control Panel
2. Troubleshoot Windows STOP errors/Blue Screen (if
occurring)
3. Ensure games are compatible with Windows XP (or Windows
NT compatibility), or use Compatibility modes.