Football Manager 2024 falls short of its promise to be the most complete edition yet. Despite initial excitement, the new features and improvements in AI squad building, player interactions, set pieces, and the match engine fail to impress.
Starting off well
The option to load an FM23 save is a welcome feature, allowing players to continue where they left off without any major missing features. The character creation process is basic but functional, with limited customization options. The choice between Original, Real World, and Your World options adds a small variety to the game.
AI Squad Building: Not So Smart
The promised smarter AI squad building, aimed at preventing senseless transfers and promoting young prospects, is disappointing. Big clubs still stack young talent and send them out on loan indefinitely. They also make expensive signings only to bench them due to existing star players. The rigid starting 11s hinder both young prospects and established stars from breaking through.
Match Engine: Realistic but Flawed
The 3D match simulation in FM24 is the most realistic in the series, with improved player animations. However, world-class players often struggle with basic skills like controlling passes and dribbling. The match engine also has a goal-scoring problem, with most games ending with only one or two goals scored, regardless of team quality.
TransferRoom and Individual Player Targets
The new TransferRoom feature and individual player targets are underwhelming. TransferRoom is another tool for selling unwanted players, which feels redundant. Individual player targets allow managers to set goals and progression pathways, but they are not game-changing.
Set Piece Creator: Cosmetic Overhaul
The “new” set piece creator is more of a cosmetic overhaul than a significant improvement. It saves a few seconds here and there but doesn’t offer much innovation.
Injury Hassles
FM24 unexpectedly suffers from a high number of injuries, making it a hassle to manage a team. This issue is prevalent across different teams and saves.
In conclusion, Football Manager 2024 fails to deliver on its promises of improved AI, match engine, set pieces, and player interactions. The initial excitement quickly fades as the new features prove lackluster.
Source: DOTESPORTS
