I never leave reviews for games, and it really hurts to write this one. I've tried so hard to like this game (400+ hours so far).

I just can't recommend this game. While the match engine looks better, it has so many flaws that can be exploited. Fullbacks can't defend, but turn into prime Messi going forward.

Each patch with a match engine update funnels you to play a way that is not conducive to fun. I've played FM since the Champ Manager days. This is by far the worst in terms of tactical variety. At the start of this game, you could experiment, but every update now makes double DM pivot, more direct passing, high press, much lower defensive line and much narrower attacking width a must. It's obnoxious, every tactic must use the same team instructions to perform at their best. If you want to play a short passing, more possession based tactic, you will simply be nerfing yourself.

The only positive I have for this game is the in/out of possession which was a great inclusion.

Don't even buy this on sale - stick with FM24, SI do better!

I never leave reviews for games, and it really hurts to write this one. I've tried so hard to like this game (400+ hours so far). I just can't recommend this game. While the match engine looks better, it has so many flaws that can be exploited. Fullbacks can't defend, but turn into prime Messi going forward. Each patch with a match engine update funnels you to play a way that is not conducive to fun. I've played FM since the Champ Manager days. This is by far the worst in terms of tactical variety. At the start of this game, you could experiment, but every update now makes double DM pivot, more direct passing, high press, much lower defensive line and much narrower attacking width a must. It's obnoxious, every tactic must use the same team instructions to perform at their best. If you want to play a short passing, more possession based tactic, you will simply be nerfing yourself. The only positive I have for this game is the in/out of possession which was a great inclusion. Don't even buy this on sale - stick with FM24, SI do better!