BTW you didn't mention whether you used the 32bits or the 64bits version of XP

Weird, I couldn't get the GOG version to install, but my retail physical version installs no problem. IIRC I initially had problems with the main character always appearing as a silhouette, if that happens, there is a workaround for it....buggered if I remember what it was though.

Except it also installs Starforce, that is...

Thats why I bought the GOG version.... that didnt install :P

Disc.
32 bit.

So, its not the OS. If it had been 64bits, it could have been caused by a 16bit installer

Remains :
- unreadable DVD. Have you access to an external drive, or is your computer equiped with a second reader ? Some dvd-rw are very sensitive to scratches etc.
- an incompatibility between the installer and some graphic settings. Try the compatibility mode by changing the properties of the install file to Win 95/98 or windows NT or win 2000, forcing the following options :run as admin, 256 colours, run in 640x480 and disabled visual themes

unless of course the DVD is a copy ( starforce would then cause trouble imho) or terminally damaged

My computer does have a rw DVD reader.
Well I think I shall give at this point, its seems nothing is working , might just buy a copy on GOG or Steam. I was quite looking forward to playing the third one but anyway thanks for the help.