Alright folks, heres the poop. I've gotten permission from BountyHunter to post this "how to", and you are all gonna wanna read this. I should say that I wanted to post this for a long, long time, but was reluctant to until I got permission. Now that I have, pay attention:
Here's how to make a working backup:
First, copy the contents of the CD1/DVD to a directory on the hard drive.
Download the mini-image GCW posted on their website:
The Sims 2 v1.0 [ALL] No-CD/Fixed Image #2
http://m.spacetarget.com/games/pc_the_sims_2.shtml
or choose a local mirror from www.gamecopyworld.com
*Don not download the Spitfire one as you will not be able to copy the needed files*
Mount the image, and copy the 2 *.TMP files from it into the CD1/DVD directory (you only need the 01*.TMP file, but copy both just for good measure). This image was created from the International CD release, and I know it works.
Burn the directory back to CD/DVD, and make sure to label them correctly (CD1 should be Sims2_1, DVD should be Sims2). They are case sensitive. If you use Nero, do not use ISO 9660 text for the Joliet label, otherwise the name will show up in all caps. The names MUST be case correct. So again, CD1 = Sims2_1 , DVD = Sims2 .
Replace the orignal exe with the fixed exe in the main game folder under C:\Program Files\EA GAMES\The Sims 2\TSBin before you try the game with the new backup. Find that file here:
The Sims 2 v1.0 [MULTI] No-DVD/Fixed EXE
http://m.spacetarget.com/games/pc_the_sims_2.shtml
or choose a local mirror from www.gamecopyworld.com
That's it. The fixed exe will now work correctly. I've tested this countless times (as has a couple other people that have the US CD/DVD releases), and it works without a hitch. What you do from there is up to you.
Thanks to Bounty for allowing me to post this as I'm sure this is gonna solve a lot of peoples problems.
Have fun, cuz I'm outta here!
*Note: people might recognize this post from another forum. It just made sense to repost my exact post here then it was to retype it all.
*I am only posting this because GCW hosts the mini-image file, and any creative person would have evenutally come up with this. Still, I figured it was best to get persmission from the GMs first before I posted a "how-to".
*Also, This is NOT A NOCD/DVD, but a "fixed exe". Just remember that.