I have tried the download through Blizzard method.

I have tried installing it using the CD and the install just stops about 1/2 through the "stardat.mpq" file.

I am also running Windows Vista. HELP!!

Try uninstalling it. It may have installed just a little...and it's screwing up the new install.

Start with the cd...not the download.

It's not installed to begin with. This is the first time I have done it.

make iso of the cd then mount it on daemon tools then install from there, that might help.

Is the cd without scratches a scratch may ruin the game you know.

^^That might be it. Maybe I should buy a new copy?

there are some free cd ripping apps you can use even if scratched a bit you can still rip it

You don't need to buy a new cd as you have a copy alredy just download Starcraft from a shering site and install and download I'm normally against pirateing but since you alredy have a cd that's just not working feel free to download it.

But are you sure you are able to beat Starcraft the original is pretty hard at the end and Brood War can be nearly impossible for many.