An Exciting Thrill for Statisticians
The fast-paced action of football is impressive, and the "Football Manager" series remains one of the best ways to experience the sport in a virtual format. Developer Sports Interactive has done a fantastic job of translating the tactical and strategic flexibility of the beautiful game into a strategic sim. Now, "Football Manager 2024" delivers the latest entry in the franchise to players.
"Football Manager 2024" once again is a comprehensive, tactics-based sports game where players take on the role of a skilled manager, leading their chosen teams to glory. With a vast list of leagues from around the world, including the Japanese J1, J2, and J3 leagues for the first time, it is once again one of the most captivating video games.
Strong Improvements in the Squad
"Football Manager 2024" brings some additions to the previous entries to add some variety. Perhaps most noticeable right away is a new marking and set-piece system that gives players more control over their lineup and turns something that previously seemed secondary into something much more important.
But that's not the only change that "Football Manager 2024" brings. There are other good improvements, from small but useful additions like the ability to transfer a "Football Manager 2023" save game, to elements that effectively influence gameplay. Adjustments to the transfer system, player objectives, and a more organic approach to board expectations all come with improvements.
Visual Enhancements
Sports Interactive has given "Football Manager 2024" a fresh look. Most of the gameplay takes place in locations that can visually appear quite dry, so changes to things like the user interface and overall design at least make the gameplay feel different from the last game.
More to Come
One aspect of "Football Manager 2024" is that it's a game with small improvements rather than a major overhaul. Sports Interactive has noted that "Football Manager 2025" will be a sort of refresh for the series and that's where the big changes will come.
Nevertheless, "Football Manager 2024" is still an excellent game. Those who enjoy the series and may have missed a year or two will find the best "Football Manager" game in recent years and will want to pick it up.
Our Review & Final Thoughts
"Football Manager 2024" is a fantastic football strategy sim that Sports Interactive concludes this era of Football Managers with finesse. It's an evolution, not a revolution, a game based on small changes rather than overhauls, so manage that expectation. But it's still very, very good.
