This page answers the common questions about C&C Generals on Android with ZeroFront. The short version: ZeroFront runs the original Generals and Zero Hour on your phone, you bring the game files from your own licensed copy, the first 24 hours are free, and after that it's a 30- or 90-day subscription. Details below.
About the app
What is ZeroFront?
ZeroFront is a launcher hub for Android that runs the original Command & Conquer Generals and Zero Hour. Inside is the 2003 game engine, ported to Android. It's based on the open-source GeneralsZH-Android-Port (GPL-3.0 license), and we modified the build.
Is it an emulator?
No. The game runs on the phone directly, with no Windows emulation. You don't need Winlator or ExaGear.
Is it the same thing as Generals: Art of War or Command Generals RTS from the stores?
No, those are different games. The strategy games with similar names on Google Play are separate projects. ZeroFront runs the actual Zero Hour, released by EA in 2003. Who made those games and how they differ is covered on a separate page.
Is the app official?
No. It's an unofficial project and isn't affiliated with Electronic Arts.
Installation and files
Where do I download the APK?
Only in the Telegram bot @generals_mobile_bot. That's also where you get your key, guides and support. The full process is in the install guide.
Why does Play Protect warn me about it?
The app doesn't come from Google Play, so Play Protect asks whether you really want to install it. Tap "Install anyway". Only download the APK from our bot, never from other sites.
Do you provide the game files?
No, the site and the bot don't distribute game files. You need your own copy, which you can buy legally on Steam or in the EA App. Where to get the game and which folders to copy is in our guide to legal copies of Generals.
Which folders do I need?
Two: the original Generals folder (with Terrain.big, Textures.big, W3D.big) and the Zero Hour folder. For a mod, you set the mod folder instead of Zero Hour. Both are set in the app's game setup.
Will it run on my phone?
There's no exact spec list, and we won't make one up. It's easier to test: the first 24 hours per device are free.
Errors
Why is the ground pink?
The original Generals folder isn't set. Zero Hour takes its terrain textures from it. Open Settings, then Game data, then "Original Generals folder…" and pick the folder with Terrain.big.
The app can't see my game files. What do I do?
Make sure you gave the app "All files access" in game setup. Then set both folders again. When everything's right, the status on the checklist turns green. Other problems and their fixes are collected in errors on the phone.
Multiplayer and online
Can I play with a friend?
Yes. LAN play between phones is tested: the lobby shows up and joining works. All phones must be on the same Wi-Fi network and the same subnet, with VPN and mobile data off.
And over the internet?
The hub has a sign-in for a Generals Online network profile, which gives you internet lobbies and matches. LAN, online and the PC options are covered on the multiplayer page.
Why can't the phones see each other over Wi-Fi?
Usually they ended up on different subnets. That happens with hotspots that hand out addresses from different ranges. Connect to a regular router and turn off VPN and mobile data.
Mods
Which mods work?
Tested and working: Contra 009 Final (Patch 3), which has its own page, and Contra 007. Other mods we add on request: send the name to the bot and we'll check it.
Subscription and payment
How much does it cost?
The app is free, access is paid. The first 24 hours per device are free, then a subscription for 30 or 90 days. The current price and payment methods are in the bot; the plans are described on the subscription page.
Can I use one subscription on two phones?
No, one subscription works on one device. A second phone needs its own.
I got a new phone. Do I lose my subscription?
No, you can move it to the new device. The transfer is paid and done in the bot.
How do I renew?
Renewal is done in the bot @generals_mobile_bot. Support is there too.
Controls
How do I play without a mouse?
With gestures: tap to select, tap the map to give an order, double-tap to select every unit of that type on screen. Control groups 0–9 sit on a panel on the left, and a long press clears the selection.
Still have questions? Message support in @generals_mobile_bot. The APK and the 24-hour trial are there as well.