Football Manager 2020

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"Football Manager 2020" is a football simulation game that allows players to manage a football club, making tactical decisions, signing players, and dealing with press and player interactions. The game features improved graphics, a more realistic match engine, and an overhauled training system. Players can now develop their club's facilities and youth academy, adding a new layer of depth to the game.

Genres & Tags

Play Modes

Reviews

89%

Audience ScoreBased on 6,866 reviews

gameplay32 positive mentions

optimization6 negative mentions

Highly addictive gameplay that keeps players engaged for hours.
Great attention to detail and realism in managing a football club.
Improvements in player development and club dynamics enhance the overall experience.

The match engine is flawed, with strikers frequently missing clear-cut chances and goalkeepers performing unrealistically well.
Many players report frustrating AI behavior, such as defenders failing to mark opponents and poor decision-making in critical moments.
The game can feel repetitive and scripted, leading to unrealistic outcomes in matches.

gameplay
134 mentions
24 % positive mentions
71 % neutral mentions
5 % negative mentions
Gameplay in the latest iteration of the game is a mixed bag, with many praising its smoothness, realism, and depth, while others criticize its steep learning curve, bugs, and frustrating mechanics. While some users appreciate the improvements and addictive nature of the gameplay, many express disappointment over persistent issues and a lack of significant innovation compared to previous versions. Overall, the gameplay offers a blend of engaging features and frustrating mechanics, making it a polarizing experience for players.
- “Gameplay is smooth and easy to understand.”
- “Very addictive, the matchday gameplay is very realistic, like watching a real football match.”
- “Football Manager is still the ultimate football simulation series, and this latest addition makes enough positive changes to keep the gameplay fresh, improving on some of the minor frustrations of previous entries.”
- “However, this depth might be a double-edged sword, potentially alienating newcomers with its steep learning curve and complex mechanics, limiting accessibility for those seeking a more casual gaming experience.”
- “The gameplay and match engine is frustrating, annoying, and a lot of times unrealistic and doesn't make any sense.”
- “I honestly would not recommend purchasing this as I thought the gameplay in another game couldn't be worse than FIFA, but this is not worth the money and should be reduced to £1.50.”
graphics
126 mentions
22 % positive mentions
66 % neutral mentions
12 % negative mentions
The graphics in Football Manager 2020 have received mixed reviews, with many players noting that while there are some improvements over previous versions, they still feel outdated and reminiscent of the 90s. Some users appreciate the enhanced match visuals and overall aesthetic, but a significant number express disappointment over the lack of a substantial graphical overhaul, particularly in the match engine. Overall, while the game offers a solid managerial experience, it is clear that many players are hoping for more significant graphical advancements in future updates.
- “Fantastic detailed and close to real depiction of a total football simulator for fanatics.... want the game/match engine for graphics to be updated though 8.8/10 from me”
- “The renewed graphic section of the game during games, which gains a certain presence and touches of realism.”
- “Better graphics and a smoother feel to the gameplay.”
- “The graphics are still very 90's even now; what would it take to just import a graphics engine from a decent footie arcade game?”
- “This is just an Excel sheet with some ugly graphics.”
- “Game crashes with serious graphics error very often, ruining the game.”
optimization
32 mentions
9 % positive mentions
72 % neutral mentions
19 % negative mentions
The optimization of the game has received mixed reviews, with many players experiencing significant performance issues such as lag, stuttering, and inconsistent match outcomes, which detract from the overall experience. While some users appreciate the control and freedom offered, they express frustration over the match engine's performance and the unrealistic behavior of AI, particularly in critical moments. Despite some improvements noted in the latest version, many players feel that the game still requires further optimization to enhance gameplay and player performance consistency.
- “Always keep your players happy, because it will affect the performance.”
- “First off, this might arguably be the best FM in terms of all the control and freedom it provides to you, with a slightly better UI and performance.”
- “I sim thousands of hours a season and each version is better optimized.”
- “Regardless of the tactics and quality of players you use, you will regularly be met with unexplained defeats and poor player performances.”
- “Both performance-wise with lag (even on 2D) and in-game animations/player decisions/broken mechanics, the lack of patches is shocking from SI.”
- “Frame rate loss and stuttering are terrible problems, and the actions of the players are just ridiculous.”
stability
22 mentions
0 % positive mentions
0 % neutral mentions
100 % negative mentions
The game's stability has received significant criticism, with many users reporting frequent glitches, bugs, and freezing issues, particularly in multiplayer modes. While some players have enjoyed the gameplay and logged extensive hours without major problems, the overall consensus highlights a frustrating experience marred by technical issues that detract from the enjoyment. Many reviewers express hope for future updates to address these persistent stability concerns.
- “The game makes you feel like these glitches were put there simply to con you.”
- “Mostly, the game freezes in multiplayer match modes and I had to quit.”
- “It will frustrate the life out of you, it's buggy as hell, the match engine is awful and all of their attempts to fix it have failed, thus far.”
story
15 mentions
20 % positive mentions
60 % neutral mentions
20 % negative mentions
The game's story aspect is largely centered around player-driven narratives, allowing users to create their own journeys and experiences as team managers. While some players appreciate the ability to craft unique stories and memories, others criticize the repetitive nature of the overarching gameplay and lack of a compelling pre-defined narrative. Overall, the emphasis is on personal storytelling within the context of football management.
- “Quality game, you can get really hooked and create storylines and your own journey.”
- “I really love this game especially with their workshops, realistic plays, and you can create a story as the manager of one team.”
- “Though you may not find the next Tonton Zola Mokouko sitting in Derby County's reserves, every story you do write for yourself on this genre-defining game will carry its own memories and legacy, and surely that is the highest praise of all.”
- “☑ no story”
- “This edition is the equivalent of playing GTA's story all the way to the end, then for a big screen to pop up saying they didn't get a chance to finish the final mission.”
- “Same story as every other incarnation - having 30-40 shots per game and failing to score more than a couple of goals, whereas opposition score from almost every chance, inexplicable decision making, clunky wooden player movements.... same old, same old.”
replayability
13 mentions
46 % positive mentions
31 % neutral mentions
23 % negative mentions
Overall, the reviews highlight a mixed perception of replayability. While many users praise the game for its fun and engaging mechanics that offer significant replay value, some express frustration with the time investment required, suggesting it can feel like a time sink. The addition of new content and improvements has been noted as enhancing the replay experience, making it worthwhile for fans despite some criticisms.
- “It's really fun and replayable.”
- “Great gameplay, amazing replayability, massive timesink.”
- “Great replay value, addition of CPL league was unexpected and is so much fun.”
- “Replayability: 0/10”
- “The only reason I don't regret my money spent is that I've begun to move on from these infinite-replayability games that don't accomplish anything but suck away precious time in my life from doing things that are actually enriching or enjoyable.”
- “Replay value >>>> 8.5”
grinding
11 mentions
18 % positive mentions
9 % neutral mentions
73 % negative mentions
The grinding aspect of the game is polarizing; while some players appreciate the immersive and rewarding nature of the grind, others find it tedious and frustrating. Many reviews highlight that success is not guaranteed, and the repetitive nature of certain tasks can detract from the overall experience. However, for those who enjoy the depth of management and the sense of accomplishment that comes with it, the grind can be highly addictive.
- “It can be a bit grindy sometimes.”
- “You'll need a second life for grinding.”
- “But you'll have to like grinding and not always be successful.”
- “Tedious simulator.”
- “I'm honestly not sure how best to overhaul this, but it's a part of the game that I find really tedious.”
humor
9 mentions
89 % positive mentions
0 % neutral mentions
11 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is often described as unintentional, stemming from bugs and glitches in the match engine that players find amusing, such as blocked goal kicks and odd visual elements like black dots on the grass. While some users appreciate the comedic aspects, they also note that the humor can overshadow the game's shortcomings, making it a mixed experience. Overall, the game is seen as a fun option for playing with friends, particularly for those who enjoy humorous content.
- “Best FM to play with your friends and for funny content as there are more misses than goals.”
- “The production team is so funny.”
- “There are a few bugs in the match engine, but they're the funny type.”
- “So bad it's not funny.”
atmosphere
7 mentions
43 % positive mentions
14 % neutral mentions
43 % negative mentions
The atmosphere in the game is described as electrifying and joyful, particularly during celebratory moments, but it suffers from a lack of authentic stadium ambiance and team chants. Players have noted a stark contrast between the vibrant moments and the disappointing dressing room dynamics, which detracts from the overall experience. Additionally, technical issues, such as lighting in 3D mode, further diminish the immersive quality of the atmosphere.
- “Absolutely electrifying atmosphere.”
- “Relive every breath (through a mask) and soak up the atmosphere of empty seats with the dubbed sound of the fans going crazy when Henderson lifts the trophy.”
- “It creates a great atmosphere, sense of joy.”
- “The bad results, the abysmal dressing room atmosphere, the unhappy players, the alleged refusal to sign new contracts.”
- “Relive every breath (through a mask) and soak up the atmosphere of empty seats with dubbed sound of the fans going crazy when Henderson lifts the trophy.”
- “But little to no attempt to incorporate more stadium atmosphere or team chants.”
music
7 mentions
29 % positive mentions
29 % neutral mentions
43 % negative mentions
The reviews indicate a significant absence of music in the game, with many users expressing disappointment over the lack of an in-game soundtrack and sound effects. While some players enjoy listening to their own music while playing, the overall sentiment highlights a desire for a more engaging audio experience.
- “This game is my number one game when listening to music.”
- “Music & sound are essential elements that enhance the gaming experience.”
- “Downside: no in-game sound or soundtrack or anything.”
- “I disliked the silence in the menu; it would be nice to have a soundtrack in this game.”
- “No music.”
monetization
4 mentions
0 % positive mentions
0 % neutral mentions
100 % negative mentions
The monetization strategy of the game has drawn significant criticism, with players expressing frustration over the increasing presence of ads, including banner ads in the main menu, despite having paid full price for the game. Many users feel that this approach is exploitative and tarnishes the overall experience.
- “Every iteration seems to push ads more and more.”
- “Now getting banner ads in the main menu.”
- “I find it utterly disgusting to watch advertisements in-game after paying full price for it.”
emotional
4 mentions
100 % positive mentions
0 % neutral mentions
0 % negative mentions
Players find the game to be an emotional rollercoaster, highlighting the deep spiritual and emotional connections formed with their teams. The unique experiences in each football manager save enhance this emotional investment, making players feel like genuine managers, especially with the realistic inclusion of VAR.
- “Well, it's an emotional rollercoaster, that's for sure.”
- “I agree with this, to an extent, as there is nothing more fruitful than being able to connect spiritually and emotionally with the team you support on the football pitch.”
- “I love that every football manager save is something different and the emotional investment in some of the teams I manage is massive.”
character development
1 mentions
100 % positive mentions
0 % neutral mentions
0 % negative mentions
Players appreciate the character development in the game, noting that even those unfamiliar with soccer can find enjoyment through its strategic elements and numerical depth, leading to a potentially addictive experience.
- “Even if you barely know anything about soccer/football, but you like numbers, strategy, and character development, you will come to adore this game, if not become addicted.”