I have Windows 7 now for about 1 1/2 years and I'm really happy with it. I previously had Windows XP and on the new system actually runs everything is what went on the old. Even the old Might and Magic VII after a while I got it to work, so you can (or at least I) do not complain about the compatibility. Of course, it's not perfect: I see shortcomings mainly in the area network (very cumbersome sharing of files / folders, problems with spontaneous establishment of LANs, problems when a computer in the LAN under XP, by default no IPX protocol more !! ...). Some areas could have been designed simply easier and more user friendly. Better than when WinXP, I find, however, for example, the update feature (looks at request for updates to hardware drivers). On the whole, Win7 is in my opinion a good modernized Windows that does not rely on too many new bells and whistles, but enough has retained well-tried. I am glad to have me buy this retail version with two discs, because if you will not have much luck with Win8 dare I strongly doubt.