program to run older games (win95, etc) on windows 8

[rcb13]

Is there a program that will let me run older games on windows 8? The compatibility program can not handle it. Can a program be written to enable this to be done? I think the games are 16 bit while the os is 64 bit. Can the old files be rewritten from 16 to 64 bit? If so, how?
thanks
rcb13

[tomos]

I dont think 16bit programmes will run on 64bit (but I'm no expert). Conversion is rewriting AFAIK - again, no expert.
I did have success recently finding out how to install a 32bit app which had a 16bit installer, and posted about it here
[sorted] 32bit app with 16bit installer - installing on Win7 64bit

I think it was pretty common to still use 16bit installers when 32bit apps first appeared on the scene (probably the equivalent happening today).

Might be worth a try...

[wraith808]

Do the games run in DOS?  A lot of the games in windows 95 actually launch a DOS session behind the scenes rather than using DirectX and rendering in Windows.  If so, you could try DOSBox.

[app103]

Or if you have a copy of an older version of Windows in which the old apps do work, install it in a VM and run the apps in that. 

[rcb13]

thanks for all the suggestions. How do I set up a vm? I have a copy of windows 95 I could use. Please be detail specific on setting up a vm and I have no idea how to do it. Also, where do I get the vm software?
thanks
rcb13

[tomos]

^ I installed the free version of vmware player a while back (it's gotten the most recommendations here in the past in terms of ease of use and effectiveness). Of course you then have to install your OS...

Have a look at this thread for some tips:
Help me understand Virtual Machine [VMWare]

[wraith808]

If the game is actually a dos mode game, dosbox would be an easier way to go.

However, if it is not (or you'd rather go the VM route), another alternative to VMWare is VirtualBox.

The manual and a FAQ for the manual are available to help you get started.