Compatibility mode is a feature in Vista that lets you run programs in Vista written for earlier versions of Windows. It is not a guarantee that it will work, but it may help the program run better or close to normal.

For the best results you should try running the installation program in compatibility mode, then try running the program's shortcut or .exe file in compatibility mode after it is installed. Some programs may also require you to Run the program or game as Administrator .

***WARNING***
Do not use Compatibility mode on older antivirus programs, disk utilities, or other system programs, because it might cause data loss or create a security risk. These type of programs run specifically for the Windows version they were made for.

You can also go to the Microsoft site, specifically Windows Vista Compatibility Center. The site might give you an indication of whether your programs will run.

Here's how you would go about trying to get them to run:

1. Right click on the program's shortcut, .exe file, or installation program.

2. Click on Properties.

3. Click on the Compatibility tab.
NOTE: If these options are grayed out, then you may be able to put the program in compatiblilty mode by adding it manually to the list.

4. To Have the Program Run in Compatibility Mode -
A) Check the Run this program in compatibility mode for box.
B) Continue to step 5.

5. Settings Section -
NOTE: On some older applications, it may be necessary to select and try different combinations of these display setting options if the application still does not quite run properly.
6. To Select or Change a Compatibility Mode for the Program -
A) Click on the drop down menu arrow and select which version of Windows the program was made for.
NOTE: Always pick the most latest Windows version that you know the programs have run with. You have a better chance of them running in Vista.

B) Go to Step 8.

7. To Remove the Program from Running in Compatibility Mode -
A) Uncheck the Run this program in compatibility mode for box.
B) Go to step 10.

8. To Have the Program Run as Administrator -
NOTE: On some older programs and installation files, it may be required for them to Run as administrator for it run properly. This is usually due to the fact that the older program was not designed for the UAC permission approval in Vista. Test running the program without using this first.
A) Check the Run this program as an administrator box.

B) Go to step 10.

9. To Stop the Program from Running as Administrator -
A) Uncheck the Run this program as an administrator box.

10. Click on OK to apply and close window.

Hope this helps......

Install the game.
After Installing , right click the desktop shortcut go to properties--> Compatibility-->run this program compatibility mode for 98 or 95 u select.

And at the bottom of same dialog box, check box Run as Administrator...Now Run,,,It Must work.......

because in this same method I'm running recoil(1998) game in windows7...