update/clarification
My copy of 'The First Decade' is installed in C:\Program Files (x86)\EA Games\Command & Conquer The First Decade
It has been for ages. And iv never had any problems with it. (Not saying there cant be, just that i havnt had any)
I couldnt install cnc ra2 in the \games\ra2 because there is no copy of the actual ra2 game there.
I am able to install cnc ra2 in the C:\Program Files (x86)\EA Games\Command & Conquer The First Decade
I also have the CnC ra1 download in C:\Games\CnCNet\RedAlert1_Online
I noticed that after installing the cnc ra2 in program filesx86 that i AM able to run the cnc ra2 but i am UNABLE to run the ra2/yr game itself from 'The First Decade'. And if i try to, i can no longer bring up The First Decades game launch menu.
I am also having visual issues with ra1 from 'The First Decade'. I havnt played mission in ages, only skirmish through cnc.. so im not sure when or what cause this.
Ill also add that reinstalling the cnc ra2 into 'Fhe First Decade' ra2 folder did yield that maps folder that eluded me back at the start.
Would it be worth trying to uninstall the first decade and reinstall it in \games? Which should be C:\games\Command & Conquer The First Decade
Id hate to lost my general/general zero hour stats.. but i guess thats not a big deal.
And then reinstall cnc r2 in \games? Which should be C:\games\Command & Conquer The First Decade\Command & Conquer Red Alert(tm) II\RA2 (or somewhere around there)