Updated: May 2017Sims 2 should install just fine on newer Windows systems. If you did get the Sims 2 Complete Collection from Origin it's even easier.
The one thing you will likely run into is the graphics not working quite right (can't select different resolutions, turn shadows on/off, etc.). A program I use to help with that is the
Graphics Rules Maker program on SimsNetwork. It fixes the GraphicsRules.sgr and VideoCards.sgr files for both Sims 2 and for Sim City 4.
The other issue you'll run across is big black rectangular boxes under the Sims' feet. This is due to issues with the graphics card drivers for both AMD and nVidia video cards. You can fix that by going into the options and setting the Shadows to anything other than High (Medium or Off). Note you must be on a lot to change the Shadows setting.
If you have the disc version of Sims 2, and this guide linked below doesn't help.
Installing The Sims 2 on Windows 8 or 8.1 Guide
http://aurna.tumblr.com/post/78528500856/installing-the-sims-2-on-windows-8-or-81-guideIt may be worth contacting EA to ask for a code for Sims 2 Ultimate Collection. They may give you one, or you may need to show proof you own the Sims 2. Reports vary on how that works.
How To: Contact EA's Customer Service / Use EA Help
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php?topic=21898.msg401708#msg401708Hope this helps and happy Simming!
Flynn
From Crinrict's Page:EA did release the Sims 2 Ultimate Collection which was free at the time and now might still be obtainable through Customer Support if you own at least one Sims 2 game. That should run with Windows 8 and 10. It also does have SecuRom, same as Sims 3 download but since it’s the download version, it should work.
Read more about it here:
http://sims3.crinrict.com/en/2015/10/windows-10-and-securom.html
Low FPS and Sims 2 Stutters *Tip*I don't know if this will help, but I wanted to pass it along just in case. Found this thread that have some troubleshooting tips that might help get your games working better on your computer.
Low FPS with Decent Gaming specs?
http://www.tomshardware.com/answers/id-3033382/low-fps-decent-gaming-specs.html
