A shift in focus has revitalized my passion for sports video games. After years of dedicating thousands of hours to management simulation games, I found myself growing disillusioned with the current trend of microtransaction-heavy, card-collecting modes that dominate the AAA sports game market. These games often leave players feeling like they’ve spent time without any lasting impact or meaningful narrative development. Instead, I turned to franchise modes, where the essence of team building and strategic planning can truly shine.

Management simulations have always held a special place in my heart. They allow players to step into the shoes of a general manager, crafting rosters and implementing strategies. This approach has been particularly rewarding in cycling and football management games, but when it comes to basketball and American football, the options are limited. To bridge this gap, I decided to explore the latest AAA titles, such as NBA 2K25, Madden NFL 25, and EA Sports College Football 25, by adopting a new playstyle: simulating and spectating instead of actively controlling the games.

This method has combined the best elements of both worlds. By stepping back from direct gameplay, I’ve been able to immerse myself in the broader narratives that make sports compelling. In NBA 2K25, I embarked on a journey through the league’s history, starting in 1983 and expanding into uncharted territory with fictional teams. The emergence of legendary players like Michael Jordan and Hakeem Olajuwon added layers of excitement as I watched my virtual team grow and achieve milestones. Similarly, in Madden NFL 25, an online league with a colleague brought fresh challenges and victories, culminating in a Super Bowl win that felt earned through strategic roster building rather than in-game prowess.

In EA Sports College Football 25, this approach reignited my interest in a game that had previously frustrated me. By focusing on roster building and recruitment while letting the AI handle the gameplay, I could enjoy the progression of my team without being hindered by my own shortcomings in executing complex plays. While there are still quirks and limitations in these simulations, the overall experience feels more authentic and rewarding. It allows me to appreciate the bigger picture—the thrill of constructing a winning team and watching its story unfold—without the pressure of perfect execution.

The experiment has been a resounding success, breathing new life into a genre that had begun to feel stagnant. By embracing simulation and observation, I’ve rediscovered the joy of managing sports teams, focusing on what truly matters: creating a competitive roster and witnessing the unfolding narratives. This approach not only enhances immersion but also leverages the advanced graphics and realism of AAA titles, making them a perfect platform for second-screen entertainment. Ultimately, it reaffirms my love for the strategic depth and storytelling potential of sports management games.