Football Manager 2017: Early Impressions

Feature Article

Submitted on: 11/04/2016 by Fraser Gilbert

Football Manager 2017 officially releases today (Nov. 04), and we've been getting our hands on it in anticipation of a review. Until we come to a definitive conclusion, we're going to spend a little extra time evaluating it. I've got some early impressions to tide you over, but keep in mind these are based on the beta version of the game, which was playable for those who pre-purchased via select outlets.

Football Manager is littered with brand-new features this year, but they're mostly subtle enhancements. That said, the game plays really well, and this isn't a series that needed an overhaul. There are still plenty of good reasons to jump on board with this year's iteration.
This year's match engine has been noticeably enhanced. Player AI upgrades result in a more realistic representation of soccer on the pitch, and it's easier to see your tactics come to life on the 3-D field as a result. This adds to the immersion, as do the new pre-match cutscenes and behind-the-goal camera options. The engine still isn't perfect, but it's largely impressive.
Throughout the beta period, the new social media feed has led to an array feedback among critics and fans. The addition of an in-game Twitter-style timeline is a fun one, but it grows old once you've sunk multiple hours into a save. That's not to say it's a needless addition, but you're unlikely to pay much attention to it in months to come.
It's still the Football Manager we know and love, and it retains all the addictive qualities of past iterations. The quality of my social life is rapidly deteriorating, and that's definitely a good sign...for the game, at least.

We'll expand on these points in the final review, and discuss other features like manager game faces, new staff roles, player promises, Fantasy Draft AI and more. Keep an eye out for the full review soon here at Operation Sports.

Are you planning to pick up Football Manager 2017? Let us know your thoughts.

Member Comments

# 1 Fabric @ 11/04/16 10:02 PM

I'm liking what I have heard so far. I have been playing Football Manager on and off for 10 years now, but decided to skip FM16 due to a lack of time while finishing uni. But I fully expect to pick up FM17 in the coming weeks and am excited to immerse myself in the FM experience again; especially since I have decided to forgo both FIFA17 and PES2017 because of their severely lacking CM!

# 2 The Yurpman @ 11/06/16 10:57 PM

This game is amazing, as always. The match engine is much, much better then before. I agree that I could do without the "fake Twitter" stuff. After playing about 40 hours so far (beta and full version) the Twitter thing gets quite old, fast. Other then that I can't think of anything else that needs "fixing". Great game

# 3 Leon @ 11/08/16 01:48 AM

Haven't bought FM since the 2014 edition since I like skipping years in between editions. The Steam reviews are pretty surprising because of all the negativity, but I'd like to know more from users on here if the negativity is valid.

# 4 gopher_guy @ 11/08/16 02:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Leon


	Haven't bought FM since the 2014 edition since I like skipping years in between editions. The Steam reviews are pretty surprising because of all the negativity, but I'd like to know more from users on here if the negativity is valid.

If you are coming from FM14, the match engine will be a LARGE step forward for you. I think it's gotten a ton better just from last year.

I also like the idea of the new transfer system where you can promise things, and players mull it over, creating the "transfer saga" type thing we see in the real world.

I don't know what all the negativity is for, but I'm really enjoying 17 so far. If you enjoy the series, and haven't bought since 14, I'd say it's a definite purchase.

# 5 ImTellinTim @ 11/15/16 02:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Leon


	Haven't bought FM since the 2014 edition since I like skipping years in between editions. The Steam reviews are pretty surprising because of all the negativity, but I'd like to know more from users on here if the negativity is valid.

I wouldn't put much stock into those. People bitch about the game every year when things don't go right immediately in their first save.

# 6 gopher_guy @ 11/26/16 10:49 AM

I love how they added in the option for your captain to talk to disgruntled players. In my experience, when I have players complain about playing time, having the captain talk to them appeases the player more often than not. It's a welcome addition.

I enjoy it, because I imagine Hugo Lloris slapping Kieran Trippier upside the head and saying "Are you mental? Of course you're not going to get regular league starts ahead of Kyle Walker. Take your Cup starts and shut the **** up!"

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