'course, first thing I did. Same thing happens under every compatibility mode setting.
I also updated dx and my display drivers. I should try running it in safe mode. Will post what happens. Hopefully something.
EDIT:
Wow, I got a dialog window! Game does not support my vid card. I play on a laptop so this crap happened before with Dead Space. I hate this "Let's check the system because we know better and don't even start the program if something is a bit different". Tossers!