[NOT THE LATEST VERSION!! See Pro Strategy Football 2022]
The game emphasizes strategic and coaching elements of American football, rather than twitch-based controls or player animations. Players take on the role of head coach, making in-game decisions and managing all aspects of their team.
Reviewers praise the simulation engine's ability to generate outcomes that closely mirror real-life football. Teams and players perform based on their actual on-field tendencies and abilities, producing realistic results.
Players have an extensive play-calling system at their disposal, allowing them to tailor their offensive and defensive strategies to specific situations and opponents. The interface provides granular control over factors like play direction, pass routes, and blitz packages.
Beyond just calling plays, the game tasks players with making a variety of other coaching decisions that impact the game, such as setting depth charts, adjusting game plans, and managing player fatigue and substitutions. Reviewers appreciate the level of control and responsibility given to the player in these areas.
The AI-controlled teams and players behave in a manner that feels authentic to real-world football. Quarterbacks make decisions and throws consistent with their skill sets, and teams demonstrate appropriate clock management, play-calling, and in-game adjustments.
The game offers extensive customization options, allowing players to create, edit, and import a wide range of elements, including leagues, teams, uniforms, and schedules. The mod community has also produced a wealth of additional content, enabling users to recreate historical seasons or build entirely new football universes.
The game is designed as a coaching simulation, focusing on strategic decision-making rather than twitch-based gameplay mechanics. Reviewers appreciate this focus, as it allows them to immerse themselves in the tactical aspects of football without being burdened by direct player control.