Alright. I tried, but it didn't fix the problem. I'll tell you exactly what happens.
I go to File>New Simulation, then click Load Settings in the pop up menu. I choose one of the settings files that came with the program, and click Load. Instead of loading, I get a small notice window saying "The settings file is incompatible with this version. Settings not loaded." I click Ok to get rid of that, and nothing happens further.
I tried exiting the program and then trying again, but it still doesn't work. I've started simulations by choosing the creatures myself and it worked fine. The bots acted a bit retarded, but I was expecting that since I'd read the warnings.
I suppose since the sims probably won't do anything even if I get them running, I ought to just empty the bot and settings folders and start gathering more recent ones from around here? Is there any sort of collection of beginner bots for the most recent version?