I'm not a fan of action-orientated video games any more than I am of hot-dogging NFL teams passing and scoring and being intercepted willy-nilly without any strategic framework. I can name some current NFL teams here, but I'll refrain.
I played TLSF when I bought my first Mac in the early 90s. I played the Bears team against the current year's schedule. The players were what they were: not terribly inspiring. But since I was locked in with a poor qb and a questionable rb, I learned strategy, and how to play around the opposing teams' strengths.
My first year ended in being washed out by the Eagles in the playoffs. The second year, however, was a miracle year that ended with a hail-Mary pass to my fastest receiver who promptly ran 90 yards for a Superbowl win. I will remember that moment far more than any real sports moment.
You can play with 2 persons or against the computer. I normally choose the later. Like most strategy games, you can start guessing the computer's logic, but just when you think you've got it pegged it will knock you around. Certain teams, like the Lions, are always hard to figure out. The help feature will both get you acquainted with the thinking behind the program as well as serving as
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a good introduction to football in general.
There is one glitch that I know: if you score points at the end of a quarter, the possession of the ball may be reversed. It's frustrating when that happens. I recommend letting a few seconds leeway.
I do well by mixing up defenses. You can't play all zones or you will be short-passed to death. If you play too much man-to-man, then you may give up a big play or too many runs. You have to anticipate the play well and learn to live with the consequences. Like real life, even when you make all the right calls, a better team can beat you and the computer won't have any compunction. Don't do what I do and slam your fist on the table. It's not good form.
The game is nostalgic for the old fashioned run and tackles variety of football. If you enjoy the strategy and not the action I recommend playing a season with your favorite team. For real NFL teams added since the 90s, you'll have to use your imagination.
