This is what I know about my new computer:

HP Pavilion g6 laptop
Intel Core i3 2.4GHz
4GB Ram
Windows 7 64bit
Intel HD Graphics [1696MB max graphic memory]

I got it from best buy, and you can find the item http://www.bestbuy.com/site/HP+-+Pavilion+Laptop+/+Intel%26%23174%3B+Core%26%23153%3B+i3+Processor+/+15.6%22+Display+/+4GB+Memory+/+500GB+Hard+Drive+-+Pewter/2686552.p?id=1218345459552&skuId=2686552&st=hp%20pavilion%20g6&cp=1&lp=1

I own the game on my 360, but I really want to play it on the PC and use MODs, as this game is one of my all time favorites. However, after downloading and installing it, it crashes when I try to start a new game [no mods installed yet or anything.]

I have looked for help in many places. I did the ".ini trick." I tried switching the compatibility to XP[SP3]. I opened up the DXREDIST folder and downloaded all on the DirectX updates. I have tried many things, but the game still crashes. Am I just out of luck?

This is why the game is crashing. It will not run on any of the Intel video chipsets. They are too weak to run the game. There is a fix, a modified .dll file floating around that forces the game to run, but it may cause damage to your OS install or to the hardware itself due to overheating.

Thank you for the reply.

What kind of graphics card should I/could I get for my laptop?

Well due to the limited size and heat issues in laptops, the GPUs are almost impossible to upgrade. There are some models that allow you to replace the GPU, but usually those are designed for gaming in the first place. There really isnt a way to safely play the game until you are able to buy or build a new PC.

Again, I appreciate the help.

Not to start a war, but this is why I like console gaming. I spent around $500 on a computer that so far has been really nice, and I can't play a 3 year old game that can run on a 5-6 year old system. I understand the XBox was BUILT for gaming and my laptop isn't. I also understand that my compter can do more than just gaming... but that doesn't make this any less frustrating.

Do you think I should try the .dll trick [obviously running the game on low graphics] or not? I don't want to ruin my laptop, but how much of a chance would I be taking?

You could try the .dll, many people have had success with it. But if the game has stability issues or your laptop is very hot/overheating you should stop using it. I personally wouldnt use it.

Also a $500 desktop can max the game, depending on how well you choose parts. Intel graphics are good for battery life, but terrible for games.