So simple and didn't even cross my mind...tried all the fancy complicated stuff first cause I like stress and complications. Thanks, I'll give this a try.

I still love Sims 2 but Windows 8 doesn't...at all.  After many scenarios, it did finally manage to instill but during load would briefly flicker, stutter and die.  I see several threads regarding Windows 7 but didn't come across any with Windows 8.  Has anyone had any success playing Sims 2 with Windows 8 and if so, could possibly offer any suggestions?  Right now I'm running it on an older computer with Vista but the tower chugs like a train and is making scary noises so I know it's not long for this world.  Any help or ideas appreciated.