[quote][b]Posted by:[/b] EmpireBattles so, i decided to try something new... i uninstalled Windows live 12, and installed a backed up version of live 11 installer, and let it update... and now H2 launches perfectly . So, for some reason, the fresh release/install of "Windows live essentials 12" (wl mail, messenger, writer, movie maker, etc etc) does something to screw up H2... but the Windows live essentials 11, which updates to 12, allows H2 to work perfectly fine. So i guess an extra trouble shooting tactic can be reverting to older MS stuff :P[/quote] Typical fix (or attempt?) X and break Y. Glad you got it sorted OP :)