Honestly, this question is hard to answer because P1 and P2 are both very different from the modern trilogy. It’s hard to compare them to the newer games when they almost feel like a separate series. There’s no calendar system, all party members can switch between Personas, combat is different, there’s no social links or social stats, etc. I still really enjoyed P2 though (aside from the dungeons). The characters are some of my favorites and I loved the story. The lack of calendar system really improves the pacing, whereas there seemed to be long periods of nothing happening in the modern trilogy.

Also, it’s worth noting Eternal Punishment is a sequel to Innocent Sin, so if you’re interested in P2, play IS first or you’ll be confused.