How does the game work? I have Fifa and when you start a franchise you make all the coaching decisions, but still play or simulate the games. From what I hear from some of your descriptions it appears you don't play the games, or maybe you do and I am just reading it wrong. Any help would be appreciated.
You are the manager. You select players, set training, set tactics, deal with the media, deal with players/rival managers, transfers, etc. When the game starts, you watch a 2d "birds eye view" of it and the deal with subs, etc.
Buy it and see your social life disappear... I'm not kidding either. One of my friends got the sack because he kept playing FM. It's really addictive... You can probably pick it up for about $25. Or better yet wait for the new one that comes out in October.
The only problem is they don't carry a lot of them in the US. I might have ti order online or go on a mission.