Fixed it, I did another clean reinstall. I guess patience is the key.
If using Windows 10, likely an exception needs to be configured.
Settings > Updates / Security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Controlled folder access > Manage Controlled folder access, add an exception.
Controlled folder access protects files, folders, and *memory* areas on device from unauthorized changes by unfriendly applications.
Allow an app through Controlled folder access:
<file path>\SimCity.exe
Should work now. This could apply to other older software too.
Otherwise, use Windows compatibility to add Admin and Windows 7 permissions also, but the security setting is the prime issue.
