general system error - C&C4 - ultimate collection

i purchased the ultimate collection.

C&C3 and Kane's wrath both work fine.

With C&C4, it was installed fine via steam. when i run the game, it asks for an login. then i get GENERAL SYSTEM ERROR.

I have followed the instructions provided by EA which is to to check the minimum PC requirements, try restating the PC and try reinstalling the game.

This has not been helpful. 

Finding someone to speak to has proven unsuccessful. 

What next?