Apparently they are compatible with modern operating systems but I'm wondering to what degree and if the modded releases fans put together are going to be better in some aspects.
Apparently the Sims 1's UI is having scaling issues but at least there's no EA launcher.
Some franchises are morally correct to pirate, and The Sims is probably the flagship example. Paradox games are also strong contenders, though not quite as egregious.
Like, get yourself a repack with all the DLC, treat yo self.
Oh I did that. Let me tell you, even for free... Only do that if you're ready to lose days of your time trying to make the things work.
Sims 3 and 4 with full DLCs are basically unmaintainable. It's not the repack's fault, they're just a complete mess.
Plus 4 is boring as hell, worst gameplay loop of the whole series.
The only reason to buy The Sims is for planting on scapegoats.