I’m up and running on the zone now with XP. I have DirectX 8.1 which is needed, 9.0 doesn’t work. It seems to be impossible to uninstall unless your some type of tech computer nerd. I definately could not figure it out, which is why I wound up clean reinstalling XP. That puts DirectX 8.1 back. I used Microsoft tech support and the only other way of uninstalling is to use the system restore function back to the point that you installed DirectX 9.0.
For the Zone you also want to delete the file in ONLY the Axis and Allies Folder dplayx.dll. I guess the theory behind that is the dplayx.dll file will default to your windows version of the file which is then compatable.
Lastly, no router with firewall. I have to unplug the ethernet plug from the router and plug directly into the modem and reconnect before playing. Which is a pain but, once you get the system down, the only problem is remembering to put it back when your done. It’s well worth it to play on the zone. I’ve learned so much already getting my butt kicked.
Hope this helps, it’s about all I know about the subject.
P.S. Side effect of reinstalling Windows XP…… Flickering sreen in the Axis and Allies CD only Multiplayer or not. Good Luck!