Im trying to install my Half Life 1

[dugweb]

ya ya, im getting the "the system file is not suitable for running MS-DOS and microsoft windows apps... etc." error. It pisses me off. Im running XP and apperently wont beable to install my old HL1 on this system.

But here's the deal, I want to just download HL1 from steam, but I can't find my CD-key... so is there any way that I can show them my CD to prove that I own it and they can reset my CD key or something?

 

[Beerdude26]

Probably not.
You might go through a whole titwad of things you have to do before they verify it. You have to send the original receipt (no copies), you have to send the original CD's, you have to supply them with your bank info, and much, much more. You have to pay for all the additionnal send costs. Then, over (max) 2 weeks they will contact you again. It was something like that for physical copies, virtual (bought over Steam) copies are much easier to retrieve. Too much of a hassle if you ask me, just rebuy the game. I heard that a new HL package is out that has EVERYTHING (HL2, CS:S, HL, all the HL expansions, DOD:S, ...). It's available in stores. You can also just buy the HL2 : Gold package over Steam for something like 80.00$, you also get everything.

If you want to find out your CD-Key, try this troubleshooter :
Link. Although that's for resetting CD keys. Press 'Ask A Question' in the upper left corner and specify your problem, and supply them with as much as information as possible (Pictures of the receipt...).

 

[dugweb]

thanks for the help. I think you're right though. Less trouble to simply rebuy the whole thing. I think you can get everything for $19.99. Not bad

 

[Beerdude26]

I think you can get everything for $19.99. Not bad

Yeah, but the Gold edition gives you absolutely everything, including some nice goodies. The Steam Back Catalog is indeed available for $19.99, though.
Oh, and no problem mate