Try install and patch the game on a computer running WinXP.
Burn the games mainfolder including contents to a DVD or copy it to an external harddisk or a memory stick.
Uninstall the game again for staying legal as it may only be installed on one computer at a time.
Alternative #1:
Copy the game from the DVD/external HDD/memory stick to the computer where the game is to be played on.
Delete the game from the external HDD/memory stick for staying legal as the game very likely can be played from the external HDD and likely also from the memory stick. You can not play from the DVD as the game saves in the games own main folder. This means the DVD can be kept as a backup of the game in countries where that is legal.
Create a shortcut on the desktop to c3.exe
For playing the game load the original CD in the drive.
Close the window that might pop up.
Start the game using the shortcut on the desktop.
Alternative #2:
Instead of copying the game from the external HDD to the gaming computer simply run the game from the external harddisk. I can't see why this should not work unless there are some security build into Vista or Win7 hindering this. I would advice against trying to play the game from a memory stick becasue all the writing to the memory stick will make it wear out much faster.
Edit:
BTW, have those people tried installing the patch using compatibility mode?
"Cats are the only animals that are both uber, pwns and 1337 at the same time." -King Euric
By reading this fine print your soul is now the exclusive property of HeavenGames.[This message has been edited by PCDania (edited 12-29-2009 @ 08:20 AM).]