Hi Belair574,
Let's see if reinstalling the game is the quick fix you need.

Here's how to properly install or reinstall a game (and/or patch):
1. Backup any saved games and/or mods to a safe location.
2. Uninstall the game using Control Panel / Add-Remove programs.
* Manually delete the game folder or saved games if necessary.
3. Clear any references to the game leftover in your registry using:
http://www.webmasterfree.com/regcleaner.html
4. Click My Computer / Rightclick the Drive & Choose Properties
/ Run the "Disk Cleanup..." / Next Click the "Tools" Tab and run
the "Error-Checking" and "Defragmentation" utilities.
5. After a reboot close & exit your Antivirus and any other programs
using this method:
http://support.microsoft.com/?scid=331796
6. Install the game again from your original CD, do not use a backup.
7. Don't reuse the saved games/mods until you properly test the game.
--
Cheers, Windows XP MVP Shell / User
Jimmy S.
http://mvp.support.microsoft.com
Game FAQs:
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=FH;[LN];gms
Visit my Zone.com / Gaming Helpsite:
http://nibblesnbits.tk or Call / Contact
MS Support at:
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=sz;en-us;top
My advice is donated "AS IS" without warranty; nor do I confer any rights.
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| i installed age of empires ii and the game never starts,
| i use winxp pro and it always comes back with the window
| that it wants to send a report to microsoft. i have
| tried all of the knowledge based help and the same...
| help please