Then why is Sims 2 and Sims 3 literally more deep in gameplay?
The Sims themselves are pretty, but lack any type of character or differentiation. There are no zodiac signs or favorites. They only have 3 traits and traits are watered down compared to Sims 3. In Sims 3 they used to have all these little side effects, like Daredevil Sims getting an bonus when writing Auto-Biography books or Diva Sims being better at Singing.
The worlds are so small and you can't really explore them. Most is just fake buildings. In Sims 3 you could find all these little spots around the world and had many lots. In Sims 2 you had a bunch of lots you could visit and explore.
