What to Expect from Football Manager 2025

With the Euros now in full swing, the anticipation for Football Manager 2025 is reaching fever pitch, as fans of the iconic management simulation series eagerly await its release later in the year. While it’s always been seen as a franchise of iterative improvements, this upcoming edition promises to be a real game-changer, thanks in no small part to the introduction of the Unity game engine.

 

Breaking New Ground with Unity

For the first time, Football Manager will use Unity, a cutting-edge game engine that will bring a host of improvements, making the game more immersive and realistic than ever before. Coupled with Sports Interactive’s (SI) recent licensing partnership with the Premier League, FM 25 is gearing up to deliver unparalleled authenticity, and for a game that was once known by its detractors as a “spreadsheet simulator,” that’s certainly something.

 

Key Dates and Early Access

FM 24 hit the shelves on November 6, so while there have been no official announcements yet, fans can expect a similar release timeline for FM 25. Typically, a demo version is available about two weeks prior, giving the community a chance to test out new features and provide valuable feedback.

 

Inside the Development of FM 25

Miles Jacobson, SI’s studio director, recently shared exciting updates on FM 25’s development. Significant changes include the removal of several modes such as Touchline Shouts, Create-A-Club, Versus, Challenge, Fantasy Draft, Social Media Screen, and Data Chalkboard. The focus is now on enhancing the user interface to boost immersion. Jacobson elaborated, “Our new UI/UX, driven by a ’tile and card’ system, lays a scalable foundation for future improvements. This design encourages exploration and curiosity, rewarding players with detailed insights as they navigate the game.”

 

Exciting New Features

One of the standout features in FM 25 is the introduction of the ‘Portal’, replacing the traditional in-game email system. This new interface mirrors real-world smartphone interactions, providing players with a more intuitive and engaging experience. The switch to Unity promises significant graphical enhancements, especially in the match engine. Player movements, ball physics, and in-game situations will appear more lifelike, heightening the overall realism.

The game’s newfound partnerships, including one with the Premier League, will bring more accurate stadium representations and a richer, more authentic football environment. Additionally, for the first time, women’s football will be included, broadening the game’s appeal and opening doors for a new audience. Of course, you’ll also have famous Premier League players like Mo Salah represented too but it’s really exciting to have the Lioness’s on side for the first time.

 

Competitive Edge and eSports Integration

Finally, representing a move into a brand-new realm, SI is also stepping into the eSports arena, partnering with FIFA’s eSports division to launch an invitational FIFAe World Cup of Football Manager tournament, boasting a $100,000 prize pool. This initiative aims to lay the groundwork for the return of the Fantasy Draft feature, positioning FM for a significant presence in the eSports world.

 

 

Jessica Alexander

Jessica Alexander

I've always loved to write, but I'd never want to be famous. So, I write as Jessica A. over here at ADDICTED. You can think of my like Carmen Sandiego, you trust me, but where in the world am I?
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