A Simple Re-Install Querry

Ok so here is the SHIZZ.

I currently have Windows 7 Built 7201 beta , which will expire in a few months time.

What i want to do is to install the FINAL retail version of Windows 7 which I already have . Now , when i do that , obviously all the things installed in the system directory will get erased. But, also things installed in other directories also stop working namely most of the games [ except he ones on steam] .

So basically what I am asking is that is there any tool that will allow me to some how backup the registry or something for these applications which are installed in the non-system partition so that they will continue to work after reinstall !

IT is a real PAIN having to reinstall these games even though they are still there on the drive. Specially the ones which are more than 15GB in size

^^^
Most of the games do work mate, without reinstalling. Make sure that you install directx 9c latest version from filehippo. Once directx 9 is installed, 90% of the games do work.

But if you choose the upgrade option while installing the new version of windows 7, your all programs and everything will be retained, including registry and everything.

1. I must have done a reinstall about 100 times now. .and i know which games wrk and which games dont . Sadly GTA IV doesnt, so does a few more BIG Ones.

2. Can anyone confirm that there is an upgrade option for 7201 -- > Retail version ???

In my opinion it would be wise to do a fresh install and reinstall stuff . again. you dont wanaa have compatibility issues later when you are just nearing the savepoint in the game. better take a little bit of hassle earlier then have an unexpected result later./

Hi !0tA
I found some relevance in the following TechNet thread—please follow this shortened link Windows RTM activation Question
Best Regards
GeoffV
Windows 7 Client Team

Its simple. Manually enter the registry and export the game related entries (every entry counts so search for each) and after new OS installation re-merge the exported registry keys

Are you sure that would work ???

Isnt there a software to do this ?

I have confirmed that you cannot infact upgrade WIN7 Beta to WIN7 Retail. You have to do a fresh install.

So basically how can i backup my game registry file n stuff so that i dont have to reinstall them ??

ofcourse it works. Thats how i have been playing games till now. No wonder who will wait that looong for that boring 12-15 gb setup..

i dont think there is any special tool to do this but why wont you do it manually?
in Start/Run type regedit <enter>
then navigate to the following:
HKEY LOCAL MACHINE/ SOFTWARE and
HKEY CURRENT USER/ SOFTWARE

In softwares you will find almost everything installed by you --games, tools, s'wares etc.
When you find the desired key, simply right click and export/save that entry safely anywhere on your pc.

You can even search for more similar name keys to make sure you sum up all of them and wont miss any.