One of Empire's winter 2002 compilations for PC, Collection Sport features two of the most in depth management games, and even manages to squeeze in a quick round of golf and a game of rugby. Take your pick.
Championship Manager Season 00/01
A cursory glance at Eidos' 2000 offering will reveal nothing new to the casual observer, but delve deep into the game and the subtle differences creep up on you. Before you know it, the pressure will be on. Players will be dropping like flies, directors will be on your back, and your e-mail inbox will be bombarded with (mostly unwelcome) messages. You really can draw a line between footy management games and real life, and it's testament to the pulling power of this genre that folks would prefer to spend their leisure time playing the part of a person who suffers the trials and tribulations of something so close to reality.
In retrospect, the 2000 edition may now be outdated, but its sound management and tactics system is one that developers have found difficult to improve upon.
International Cricket Captain 2002
A tactical game of skill, wits and management, ICC 2002 gives the player the opportunity to command any of the world's Test-playing nations or county teams. You are the manager, charged with buying and selling players, devising effective match strategies, and even preparing the playing pitch. It's a lot of responsibility, and any clear-cut mistakes could deal a serious blow to your career. Conversely, the glory of a successful match or season is entirely yours for the taking.
Voiceover commentary from Jonathan Agnew, a complete list of licensed names and a library of historical test series replays immerses the player in a great strategy game. It's one for the hardcore cricket fan, but it's well worth a shot.
Links LS Classic
It is true that many other golf games are comprehensive, but none of them have such a wide range of variables as the Links series. From wind direction to foot positioning, this game is truly a full-on experience. Sure, a little patience and practice is needed before players can achieve a full round under par, but it's all part of the game's learning process.
The gameplay physics are extremely accurate, and while they take a little getting used to, they only help improve the experience of playing such a polished golf game.
Jonah Lomu Rugby
Try it once and you're converted. The biggest name in rugby stars in the best game the sport has ever seen. With all the passion and action of the real thing, Jonah Lomu Rugby is the leader of the pack. Featuring commentary from TV's Bill McLaren, motion capture technology, 32 Rugby Union teams, a variety of game modes and some diverse weather conditions, Jonah Lomu Rugby is one of the best rugby games to grace the PC format.