Football Manager 2019

Football Manager 2019 is a part of the timeless franchise that has captivated fans since the original version in 2005. However, 2019’s iteration provides some decent changes that will no doubt keep veterans of the game entertained. Yearly gaming titles may have a tendency to feel repetitive after a while, but Football Manager 2019 reinvents the wheel with style and class.

The Cameras are watching

Football Manager 2019 introduces the Video Assisted Referee system that first emerged in the Russian hosted Summer World Cup. For fans unfamiliar with it, a Video Assisted Referee (VAR) is available in select football games where a traditional Referee can consult on the advice of a VAR to help with complicated calls and decisions. The VAR has remote access to playback and multiple camera angles of games as they go on. In FM 19, this will certainly keep you on your toes!

More control over training and tactics

In previous installments, tactical decision making was based on the presumed knowledge of you – the player. This time around, there’s a little more nuance when creating a playstyle. In turn, it makes for some great ways to replicate real formations and tactics. As a head coach, you can build upon former strategies used by previous managers. Therefore ensuring that your team is able to meet the goals and demands of a season.

Following the new tools at your disposal can make for some interesting results in a season. For example, borrowing from Pep Guardiola’s opportunistic philosophy with a much wider style of football was great in offsetting the expectations other teams had while playing against my underdog Sheffield United F.C. We went on to lift the English Football League Championship cup. However, moving to the Premier League proved to be a bit of a stretch against the more refined teams.

Dealing with the intelligent A.I. and club experience was fun to work around. Figuring out when to train, focus on physiotherapy and even sell certain players proved intriguing. This compelling access to customization in the team experience ultimately makes Football Manager 2019 a game that keeps on giving.

Don’t hate the game, hate the player

Players are much more realistic this time around. Akin to the way certain nations are weary of doing business with you in Civilization V when you’ve been aggressive to bordering territories, Football Manager 2019 can be downright rude if you are on bad terms with your team’s captain. Seeing as he has influence over the team, bad decision making in the eyes of your captain can lead to your entire game plan being put to the test.

Real-time Control

Another great aspect of Football Manager 2021 is the opportunity you have as a manager to make calls while on the pitch. You can direct players in a micromanagement of your chosen playstyle. Determining how long possession should be held, areas to mark and so on.

Pros:

• Great improvements
• Better training
• Improved player interactions

Cons:

• Difficult for new players to get into