I have an hp ef2040tg laptop w/ ryzen 5 5500u and windows 11 home. I have Quake I and Quake II. Quake II works ok but Quake I doesn't even install. I get a message saying can't install it. I heard DOS Box may be an option as it may be a 32 bit issue. What can I do? I am only an expert beginner and an old school programmer from the past and lost my way somewhere. H e LP?!!
Do you have the original media disk? Is it from you are trying to install?
Well, if that's the case, then DOSBox should help you out. Steam also relies on DOSBox as well to run these old games if you buy from them.
This 2 y/o Reddit thread one User gives instructions on how to be able to install and play Quake in Windows 10: https://www.reddit.com/r/quake/comments/jksfix/how_do_i_install_quake_from_the_original_cds_on/
Here is another User on how to run Quake without having to install it: https://gamefaqs.gamespot.com/boards/916373-pc/63417767
there are some old games that required NET. Framework 1.1 to install and run.
I believe the old StarCraft BroodWars was one of those games, not certain., but I have it installed and have several very old games installed.
Just a suggestion. It won't hurt anything to try it.