Hi Ves,
The play count is added to the played track.
So I think the following is normal behavior.
"if I take the time to prep the whole track and play it out it gets counted as 'played'."
Does it mean that the play count will be added even if it is not played?
We would need to know more.
Can you please file an inquiry ticket here and our support team will gather some additional information to assist you in resolving this issue.