| Problem | Likely Cause | Fix | |---------|--------------|-----| | Game crashes immediately after launch. | Incompatible patch version (e.g., using a 1.0.2 patch with a No‑CD loader made for 1.0.1). | Re‑install the correct patch version, then re‑apply the loader. | | “Missing texture” errors in Franchise mode. | Game is still looking for data on the DVD drive. | Ensure the Data folder is present in the install directory; some installers store it on the disc rather than copying it. | | Online play fails (cannot connect to EA servers). | EA’s servers now require a valid product key that the No‑CD patch may have stripped. | Use the mode only, or consider a newer NHL title for online features. | | Antivirus flags the No‑CD loader as malicious. | Some loaders are signed with generic certificates or contain code patterns similar to known malware. | Verify the hash against the source’s official posting; submit to VirusTotal for community consensus. | | Game refuses to start on Windows 11. | Compatibility shim missing. | Right‑click → Properties → Compatibility → Run in Windows 7 mode, and check “Run as administrator.” |