ME1 might not be that old, but it feel really dated. Especially once you start onto ME2. I'd actually suggest doing as many side quests in both games as possible (they actually have some impact since all the games are connected) and give you minor bonuses. but you can also do this on Easy difficulty if you wish. ME1 should take like 20 hours or so, ME2 would take around 40.
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Chrono1219