I just installed BF2 on my Dell Laptop that meets all the requirments with a Vista os. But when I go to play the game a black screen comes up, then it goes straight back to the desktop. I've tried downloading all the patches and windows updates, with no luck. Any suggestions?

Hi Warlock69 - Welcome to PCHF!!!

Right click the BF2 shortcut on your desktop and change +fullscreen 1 to +fullscreen 0

If it's not there already you will need to add it e.g. it should look like this.
"C:\Program Files\EA GAMES\Battlefield 2\BF2.exe" +menu 1 +fullscreen 0

This will make it generate an error instead of just crashing to desktop. Can you please post back what the error says.

Hi Warlock,

Did you manage to get this resolved or do you still require assistance with this. Please let us know.