It will keep you playing long into the night. If only more effort were put into graphics and sound.
Presentation:
The menus are nicely laid out and most things are easy to find. I say most things because a few minor things could of been easier. There really are no in game movies to speak of, or a manual either ( I got the online download version).
Graphics:
Again, this isn't your typical game. To be honest you don't even have to view the game so it is possible to pretty much play the game without watching hockey. Te graphics that are done are basically sticks with circles. It's pretty primitive but it's not the focus of the game so I am being lenient here. Still some more effort would of been nice. Even NFL Head Coach had some decent visuals to go with the behind the scenes aspect.
Sound:
In short, what sound ? There is no background music, the sounds of the game being played are as basic as it gets, and you can play the game without sound and it makes no real difference. Again, more effort would of been nice.
Gameplay:
Alas, here is where this game shines and flexes its muscle. It is DEEP, and that's an understatement. You can start scouting players at the young age of 14 and keep track of them throughout their later life. You are in charge of lines, captains, strategies, scouting, contracts, and much much more. For lines you can select who shoots and who passes, who can fight and who can't, what the goalie should do in certain situations, and who are captains. For scouting, you decide what your scouts will be looking at, where they will look, the age of prospective talent, position, and more. For contracts you can set bonuses and clauses, and you can resign and fire coaches, scouts, talent, all can be done. Late in players careers you can offer them a contract as a coach, scout or assistant GM. You can fine players for a variety of reasons or give them a warning. You will be answering questions from the media on where you sand with certain players, and your answers will have consequences. This only scratches the surface and doesn't really fully explain everything, there is much more.
Lasting Appeal:
There are over 20 leagues, a fantasy draft, and so much to do. You can be fired and get a job elsewhere. If this type of game is for you, it won't be turned off soon.