I think everyone should at least try the Sims 2 base game especially as a gameplay player. For building the Sims 2 may seem a bit outdated. Sims 3 is more of a builders and CAS game. Sims 2 and 4 have similar cartoon art style and many of the styles have been carried forward from the Sims 2 to the Sims 4, so I think you would enjoy it. I think it is much harder for Sims 4 players to play the Sims 1 game because the difficulty level is the polar opposite, so could be challenging for people to play now. But Sims 2, nah you'll be fine. Some of the Gurus have gone back and played Sims 2 again too and been impressed.