NOT THE LATEST VERSION - Be sure to also look for Pro Strategy Football 2024!
The game offers a variety of gameplay modes, including single games, full seasons, and in-depth career modes where players can build a fictional football universe over multiple seasons. At the core of the gameplay is the extensive play calling system, which allows players to choose from a variety of formations, personnel packages, and play types, giving them granular control over the strategic elements of the game.
Players can design their own plays from the ground up, similar to classic football board games. The play calling interface is praised by players as being extremely robust and intuitive, enabling them to fully control the offensive and defensive schemes.
The simulation engine produces believable outcomes based on the strategic decisions made by players. Whether they choose to actively coach each game or simulate them, the engine generates realistic results and advanced statistics, including tackles for loss, tackles for safety, and key player ratings like pass rush and blocking.
Players can edit individual player attributes and appearances, as well as customize the look and rules of entire leagues. This level of customization, combined with the wealth of historical and fictional teams available through the game's modding community, ensures that each player's experience is unique.
While the graphics utilize a retro, pixel-art style, the presentation is clean and the animations are sufficient to convey the action on the field. The game offers a variety of audio options, including multiple commentary tracks and the ability to import custom music. The "TV Studio" mode, which allows players to follow the action of other games while their own game is in progress, is particularly praised for its immersive qualities.