I have a problem where when I click on the launch file, it brings up the game as a box/loading screen and then completely freezes.

Do you have a Dual Core CPU? On some systems, Generals needs about 30-45 minutes to start up the first time. Afterwards it will start faster.
So, if you have a Dual Core, start Generals and go make some coffee.

If you have no Dual Core or if the game does still not start properly after 45 minutes, please post in here again.
Edit: And please state some more information about your system. (Operating System, CPU, graphic card, are the drivers up to date?)

This post was edited by iDGames on Jul 13 2011 10:48am