Despite numerous reports of failed attempts, I was able to compile and run the Google Chrome browser code using Visual C++ 2008 Express Edition. Here is my recipe : 1. Install Visual C++ 2008 Express Edition with SP1. 2. To be on par with the official Chrome Windows build instructions, you need to install the following patches: Mandatory: KB967631 KB960075 and KB957912 Optional: KB956420 and KB958