I do agree that a trophy won without manipulation feels more satisfying. My first few seasons were like that before i learnt about this forum and start reading the tutorials and guides. However, it is an option avaliable to very frustrated players especially those who wanna stop playing. Maybe manipulate a season or two then back to normal when you feel motivated enough. Tanking is also another option. For me, i feel all 3 different scenarios will alter my gameplay and provide a little variety when it gets boring to play the same style over and over. It also suits different personality styles. Some who would like to dominate and some who like strong competition and can deal with the occasional loss. In the end, all of us just wanna have fun and be happy. What i am saying is level 50 is more than 4 years of effort, play a different way to minimise frustration for the time being instead of quitting. Just my 2 cents worth.