WE ARE FOOTBALL Reviews

WE ARE FOOTBALL, developed by Winning Streak Games and published by THQ Nordic, offers a modern take on the football management simulation genre. Rather than focusing on photorealistic match day graphics or licensing deals, this title aims to deliver a deep and satisfying managerial experience grounded in decision-making, long-term planning, and the psychological nuances of running a professional football club. While it doesn’t quite have the scope or granularity of genre titans like Football Manager, it carves out a unique identity through its accessibility, faster gameplay loops, and customizable systems that appeal both to newcomers and veterans looking for a more streamlined experience. At its core, WE ARE FOOTBALL places you in the role of a manager responsible not only for tactics and transfers, but for every facet of a club’s ecosystem. From youth development and staff hiring to stadium upgrades and merchandising strategies, the game encourages a holistic approach to team management. What sets it apart is the breadth of influence you’re given. You're not just picking starting elevens—you’re setting up academy structures, defining PR strategies, negotiating sponsorship deals, and even influencing club philosophy. The emphasis on dual-layer management (short-term tactics and long-term infrastructure) creates a rewarding gameplay loop where every decision has a visible, lasting effect on your club’s evolution. Unlike some football management titles that thrive on detailed realism and massive databases, WE ARE FOOTBALL opts for a more stylized, slightly abstracted presentation. This design choice allows for significantly faster playthroughs—entire seasons can be completed in a fraction of the time it would take in more complex simulations. The matches themselves are not shown in real-time but through text commentary and key moment summaries, which keeps the focus on strategy rather than on-watching animations. While this may disappoint players seeking detailed 3D match engines, it aligns perfectly with the game’s vision: quick, intelligent decision-making over aesthetic immersion. A unique strength of the game lies in its support for both men's and women's football, offering the same features and management options regardless of gender. This parity is both refreshing and overdue in sports management games, and it allows for a broader spectrum of playstyles and role-playing narratives. Moreover, the robust editor tools allow players to fully customize teams, leagues, and competitions, offering near-infinite replayability and user-created content. Whether you want to create a fictional league from scratch or simulate a rise from obscurity with a tiny amateur club, the game gives you the tools to build your own world. In terms of interface and usability, WE ARE FOOTBALL strikes a good balance between depth and clarity. The menus are cleanly laid out, with a logical progression that makes navigating club operations intuitive. Graphs, reports, and weekly briefings help you track club performance without overwhelming you with data. While some of the screens can feel overly bright or cartoony, the functionality remains strong. The game offers plenty of feedback on your choices, whether it’s through player morale, board expectations, or financial projections. As a result, players can quickly understand how their strategies are playing out and adapt accordingly. However, the game does have a few shortcomings that may limit its appeal for hardcore simulation fans. The AI, while competent, can sometimes feel predictable, especially during transfer negotiations or tactical matchups. There are moments where the lack of detailed tactical options or in-depth player traits can leave the system feeling somewhat surface-level compared to more complex simulators. Additionally, while the faster pace is an asset for accessibility, it can also lead to a feeling of detachment during matches, where your influence seems minimal once the game kicks off. The balance between managerial input and hands-off simulation is sometimes tilted too far toward automation. Despite these caveats, WE ARE FOOTBALL succeeds in its mission to be an accessible yet deep management sim that respects your time and rewards strategic thinking. It’s particularly well-suited for players who find Football Manager overwhelming or time-consuming but still crave the satisfaction of building a football dynasty. Its flexibility, user-friendly design, and commitment to inclusive football management make it a valuable addition to the genre. As the game continues to receive updates and community support, its potential only grows, especially given its modding capabilities and customization options. In conclusion, WE ARE FOOTBALL is a thoughtful, versatile, and highly enjoyable football management simulation that favors big-picture strategy over micromanagement. While it may not satisfy purists looking for microscopic realism, it offers a compelling alternative for players who value speed, flexibility, and creativity. Its emphasis on full club control, gender equality in gameplay, and intuitive systems makes it a standout in a niche crowded with complexity. For those looking to guide a club from grassroots to global dominance—without sacrificing their real-life weekends—this is a smart, satisfying, and surprisingly deep option. Rating: 7/10