So you want to know how I set up SFC:OP? Ok!

Install SFC:OP

• Find your CD.
• Find your CD-Key.
• Install.

Patch to SFC:OP 2.5.5.2

• Download the patch.
  • SFCOP_Patch_2500-2552.exe
• Install the patch.

What, you don't have 2.5.0.0 but something else? See here: All SFC Patches and ServerKits

Run the game to type the CD-Key

• Make sure you have your CD-Key on paper or something you can read from
  • copy-paste won't work here
• just start it up, and type in your Key.
• exit the game when you're done.

Set up your preferences with EzINI

• get EzINI
• run EzINI
• Select Orion Pirates.

My suggestions for EzINI settings

• Video
  • Resolution: 1024 x 768
• Audio
  • Music Volume --- OFF
    • That's completely optional. You can leave it on if you want.
  • Max Channels: 64 (max)
  • Crew Sounds: Maximum
• Multiplayer
  • Set up your Default Multiplayer Player Name
  • Set up your Game Name
  • OPTIONAL: click on Multiplayer Hidden Race
  • OPTIONAL: click on Multiplayer Hidden BPV
• Misc
  • Difficulty: Admiral
  • turn ON Volley Information

Install OP+

See: SFC:OP Plus Refit

• Get the latest OP+
  • .. or whatever people are playing. I suggest the latest.
• Install it.

Install Co-Op Ace

See: Co-op Ace for SFC:EAW and SFC:OP

• Get the latest coopace
  • Currently Coopace 4.0
• install it.

Customize Co-Op Ace

• run the Coop-Ace Customizer from your start menu
  • Set the Difficulty to around 1.5
    • or whatever you prefer. I got 1.7 right now
  • Set the AI Intelligence to Admiral
  • Races: single
  • uncheck all the pirates
    • up to you, but remember, pirates are weaker
  • Turn ON 'Force selection of ships created in current era'
    • This will improve the gaming experience, especially since you've installer OP+
  • Turn ON 'Use Enhanced Shiplist API Settings'