Hello!

I don't understand what's the difference between starting S3 with the "The Settlers 3"-shortcut or using "The Settlers 3 [Multiplayer]".
It seems like I can start a multiplayer LAN game in both versions and I never had these two modes with my original Settlers 3 CD-version.

So what's the difference or the advantage in starting the "Settlers 3 [Multiplayer]" for playing a MP game?

I'd also like to know why there are three executables (s3, single and s3_multi .exe) that seem to be doing exactly the same.

I'd like to know the differences between the executables too.

Same here... I don't remember this happening with neither my CD base game or my Gold Edition.

I'm going to go out on a limb here and try to explain it...

I'm pretty sure the S3_Multi.exe is equivalent to the second disk that arrived with the jewel case. Single.exe would be the first CD. S3.exe would be the original icon/executable for the actual playing of the game...


Essentially, what GOG.com did, was create two executables that removed the issue and error of having to deal with two disks that you obviously cannot get through a digital download. They probably revamped the executables with newer code that that they made the game think that whatever computer you are using is good to go with these games. Essentially, a safe port to any newer version of windows.


TLDR
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So, in essence, you have the two play disks and a actual program.


Hope that explains it!

Nope. The Single.exe is only al script that write a Registry string called "SingleNumber" and start the S3.exe. All GoG users have the same "Single" CD Key that allowed to play the campaign without type a key at start but it's limited in LAN mode.

The S3_Mulit.exe use the original Settler 3 "SerialNumber" Registry string. You must type your unique CD Key at start but you can play the campaign and LAN mode without any restrictions.