i can't play online... please help

[PartyElite]

hey guys. just looking for some help here:

i've installed Medieval 2 total war on my new computer, got a good, solid net connection, and am completely ready to play online. however, when i fill in all the info [gamespyID stuff] and click on "online battles" nothing happens... the hourglass keeps rotating, but that's it!

doesn't load or anything!

please gimme some advice on how to fix this. i know my cd key is valid cuz when i modify it [ie, remove dashes] using regedit, it says "invalid cd key"... so... any advice?

PS: i haven't patched up to v.1.2 cuz when i do [even from a clean v1.0 -> v1.2 update]all i get is a black screen upon loading the game along with a windows "error beep". Pressing escape takes me to the desktop btw.

thanks guys

peace

[PartyElite]

okay, im fully aware that bumping is not in good taste.... but

please help me!

[{$username}]

You need the lastest patch to play online.