[Minas]

k, the file from gcworld.com works, I'll tell you how.

You need:
-virtual cd 8.xx
-the .vc6 file from gcworld

now, mount the image, install the game.
then you start virtual cd, there you go in the first drop down menu from the left, select "create virtual disc" and create a virtual disc from your mountet image. name the virtual disc ANNO1701
once it is done, you go to the folder with your just createt virtual disc and replace the .vc6 file with the one from gcworld.
if your file is a .vc4 file, just rename the one from gcworld to .vc4

now the important thing:
fist, mount the virtual disc with a virtual drive, created by virtual cd (disable ALL other virtual drives).
start the game. you'll get an error. click ok. now you're back on your desktop. now unmount the virtual drive and mount your physical drive with the virtual cd (you should be able to select it somewhere in the virtual cd options, i can't help you there because I have the german version).
now start the game again->it works.
if it doesn't work, try again.
it is crucial that you FIRST mount a virtual drive, and after that your physical drive.
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I got that from the Warez site name removed!... and yes i bought the game but the forum there is sometimes worth a look.

another thing i have noticed if your pc crashes at the beginning try to unplugg (turn off) your internet connection. Sounds strange but it worked for me.

gl guys