Hi, I used to play NS a while back, and thought I'd get back into it.

But when I try to connect to a server, I get the sound coming through, but I just get the connecting box flashing very quickly and I can't move or anything. It looks like the game in the background I think. If I hit ESC, I get the server screen, then when I hit 'resume game' it just starts flashing again.

I had a look in the FAQ but couldn't find anything that looked like my problem. You guys got any ideas?

This used to happen to me if had alt tabbed (or other wise lost focus) when loading.

make sure nothing is taking your focus (so kill all apps you don't need running and do a full malware scan).

Also try updating your vidcard drivers.

if nothing works post system specs.

Ran a complete malware check, found a few things but they're gone now and the problem persists.

Specs:-
AMD Athlon 64 3500+
NVIDIA GeForce 6600GT (with up to date drivers)
1GB RAM
Running XP.

Also, whenever I try to join a server, it automatically goes back to my desktop, then back to NS after a few seconds.

so, the problem is that you are being forced to your desktop when you try to join a server, I know that causes the problem you first described.

TBH, IT really sounds like you have something running in the background that is stealing focus.

Does this happen if you:
1) launch NS then join a server
2) Launch NS by joining a server directly from the steam server menu

Have you made sure to Kill out ALL the other programs except steam?

I have the same problem on my desktop i try joining a server and it minimizes so i reclick it and it frezes at one bar left in the download I hit Esc and it shows that im in the server so i hit Resume game and the screen starts flashing real fast and i cant move at all. the only thing runing other then ns tab is the steam-(username) tab i figured i would try and start game then exit out the steam tab so it is only running as a icon on the right corner. Im going to see if that works if not i will need help please

here is a tec spec for you:

os: Microsoft Windows Xp Home Edition version 2002 service pack 2
computer: hp compaq presario SR1920NX
processor: AMD Anthlon™ 64 processor 3500+ 2.20 Ghz
Ram: 448 MB
graphic card: Nvidia GeGorce 6150 LE driver version 8.2.0.8
monitor: Compaq FS7600 color monitor
network edapter: Nvidia nForce Networking Controller
audio: Realtek High definition audio driver 5.10.0.5502

ok thats about all i could think of to put that may help you help me

ok it seems that that was the exact problem becase as soon as i joined the server with it closed down i did not have the problem

/me points at the edit button (don't tipple post )

So, it sounds like you have a work around.

If you want to fix NS minimising when you try to open a server then I suggest doing all the other things I suggested.

BTW:
when I say 'only running program' I am including ANYTHING else running, AntiVirus, Chat programs, etc etc etc.

So, run a full malware scan (both anti virus and anti spyware), make sure EVERYTHING is closed. And then try it out.

Also, does this problem come up when playing:
Other games?
Other Steam Games?
Other HL1 mods?