In a heartbeat. While 3.x is a simpler system, it wasn't until 3.0, and moreso 3.5, that I -- and everyone in my group -- began to think of characters in terms of how to minmax a PrC, fret over miniature placement and use, or become obsessed with having magical gear. We're better now, but then again, we're taking a break from 3.x, and are playing SR3 instead.
Back in the 2e days, we were worried about the story, and how that would play out. In fact, we never accumulated XP in the traditional sense. The DM would, when he felt like it, tell us to level.
I miss games where playing the characters is more important than levelling them. (Can't wait for A Game of Thrones Tri-Stat!) If, by epic, you mean grand story, then I'm on board with both feet. If you mean high-level, then I will hedge just a bit before attempting to bring in my kender handler. :-D