My brother and his friends were always playing on Sims 1, and I watched that for awhile. Then I was watching them play Sims 2, and thought it looked like fun. I went out and bought two of the Life Stories ones, and was hooked. I would play so much, that I was dreaming about my families. I have bought Sims 2, and all the expansion packs, as well as all the stuff packs. My hubby complains all the time, lol. It is my addicition....way better for the body than some other addictions out there....not sure if it is better for the pocketbook though.