Does counting calories really work?

Yes it does. It has worked for me. Ever since I stopped counting calories I gained weight. Now I'm going back to counting again to lose some more weight.

I could have wrote the same post as KJ26boys! I also just cancelled my WW subscription because of all their changes. I had great success with them in 1999/2000 but ever since they have become more interested in selling more stuff and fake food than really helping with nutrition. Having said that, I don't think a calorie is a calorie is a calories. Sure, I suppose if you stay within you target calorie consumption, you will lose weight. I would argue that if you don't hit your healthy targets, you will crave more food, be hungry and end up giving in and failing. I find that if I really focus on getting my fruits and veggies and lean proteins and good carbs while staying within my calorie target, I am more satisfied, have more energy and find it all easier. If I start the day with a donut, I have a hard time staying within my target because I wasted 200 calories on nothing. We need good food, we have to learn to budget properly.

WW is calories counting lite (and expensive).
Yes, calorie counting works.

Yes it definitely works. My wife and I combined have lost 100 pounds and both rarely have trouble with hunger despite the reduced calories. For me choosing foods that are less calorie dense like veggies allows me to get plenty on my plate which helps. Also choosing lean meats or fish (or legumes and grains) again lets you have more volume and stay within your calorie goal. I feel learning to work with these real foods instead of pre-packaged allows me to learn what a portion looks like so on those occasions when we do go out to eat we know when it is time to share an item. All the best to you in your journey.