Hey, Geneforge 1 slows down incredibly when I start it up so that I can't even click the checkmark to move the screens along after creating my character.

I have Windows 7 with dual monitors. I had a similar problem with Avernum 4 so maybe it's related to having dual monitors...any help is appreciated :)

Did you try the fixes listed in the "Jerky Gameplay" thread located here?

http://www.gog.com/en/forum/geneforge_series/jerky_gameplay