How to fix software problems:

Note: Be very careful when performing this fix. It requires you to deal with delicate system tools.

First, uninstall Rome: Total War either through the add/remove programs utility or with the game's uninstall program. If you are unable to uninstall the game or had an error while uninstalling, skip this step or use the alternate method (listed below).

Next, you'll need to completely delete the directory for Rome: Total War. This can probably (it will be unless you have chosen your own directory) be found in: Main Hard Drive -> Program Files -> Activision. Delete the folder for Rome: Total War.

Finally, you'll need to delete the registry entry for it. Go to the Start Menu and open "Run". Type in "regedit" and click OK.

If you installed the game for all users:
-Go to HKEY_Local_Machine, open it.
-Go to SOFTWARE and open it.
-Scroll down the (probably) long list to The Creative Assembly and Total War. Delete both of them.

If you installed the game for one user: (You should be logged on to that user's account)
-Go to HKEY_CURRENT_USER, open it.
-Go to SOFTWARE and open it.
-Scroll down the (probably) long list to The Creative Assembly and Total War. Delete both of them.

After these steps, reinstall Rome: Total War. This should rectify most software problems, as it deletes your computer's memory of having ever installed the game.

This error normally occurs when someone is modding the game, and makes a mistake. If you are modding, check descr_model_battle.txt and descr_mount to make sure your entries there are correct. If you are not modding, and it really is a fresh install, your uninstall probably did not REALLY uninstall everything. You might try the following:

1. Make sure your BIOS is standard, PnP enabled, only one sound card activated, no overclocking, conservative (e.g., standard) settings enabled.
2. Make sure no device conflicts in Settings - Control Panel - System - Hardware - Device Manager. Also, make sure Sound is installed correctly.
3. Use the latest stable motherboard, video, and sound drivers.
4. Uninstall WMP10, the reinstall.
5. Uninstall and verifiy uninstall RTW (howto is here ).
6. Install RTW.

Happy hunting....