Hasty Briefsbeta

Reviving old software to run on a modern machine

3 days ago
  • #virtualization
  • #retro-computing
  • #nostalgia
  • Partner found an old educational software from 1997, 'Reader Rabbit’s Reading Development Library', by The Learning Company.
  • Author decided to recreate childhood memories by making the outdated software run on a modern machine.
  • Tracked down a copy of the 3rd installment on eBay and used Windows 3.11 in Virtualbox.
  • Required additional programs and drivers, including MS-DOS E-IDE / ATAPI CD-ROM device driver for CD reading.
  • Installed better display drivers for higher resolution (1024x768 with 256 colors).
  • Set up audio with Sound Blaster 16 drivers and utilities.
  • Resolved dependency on WinG[2], a pre-DirectX graphics framework.
  • Successfully mounted the CD in Virtualbox and installed the software.
  • All dependencies resolved, allowing the software to run successfully.