well if it has 256mb of ram its atleast a 5200, which is Directx9 compatible so thats not the problem. what does it not do? exactly simply telling us it doesnt work isnt enough for us to help... chances are you simply need to update your graphics card drivers. go to the sims site and check their forums see if there are any current issues with the game and any parts in your system....sorry i dont play the game so i cant be more specific.