Also I would suggest adding -w to the properties and disabling Origin for the game. Also fix your resolutions http://simsvip.com/2014/07/20/the-sims-2-ultimate-collection-increase-resolution-guide/
Nope, you can play it offline if you check the box (i think, I'm constantly logged into origin waiting for the Sims 4 CAS demo tho)
I run Windows 8.1. Tried the -w and disabling origin in game and didn't work, going to try the resolution guide now