I played Fallout 3 before this one. I loved fallout 3, thought it was great!
But Fallout 2 seems better to me. although graphics have made leaps and bounds since the 90s good games are always good. Fallout 2 is classic; fun. gritty, and difficult (refreshing nowadays hehe). Not for every one though if you can't stand turn based combat don't bother, and if you get frustrated easily or don't save often this game will kill you.
If you like RPGs and open world games stop reading and download it already! you won't regret it.