Football Manager 2021

The graphics of the game have received mixed reviews, with some players praising the significant improvements in the match engine and overall visuals, describing them as more realistic and immersive. However, many others criticize the graphics as outdated, comparing them unfavorably to games from previous decades, and express a desire for further enhancements. Overall, while there are notable advancements, the graphics still fall short of modern standards for some players.

Overall, the optimization of the game has seen significant improvements compared to its predecessor, FM20, with better performance on a range of hardware, including low-end PCs. While some users appreciate the smoother gameplay and enhanced match engine, others have reported persistent bugs and issues with player performance metrics, indicating that further refinement is still needed. The user interface has received mixed feedback, with some finding it less intuitive than previous versions, but many agree that the game runs more efficiently and processes data faster.

The game's stability has been widely criticized, with numerous reports of persistent bugs, freezing issues, and glitches affecting gameplay, including player registration and match engine performance. While some users note that a few glitches are addressed quickly, the overall sentiment reflects frustration over the game's unfinished state and the recurring nature of these problems year after year. Many players express disappointment that despite the game's potential, the stability issues significantly detract from the overall experience.

The game's story aspect is highly praised for its realism and the ability to create personalized narratives, allowing players to guide teams from lower divisions to success in prestigious leagues. Many users appreciate the depth of decision-making and the immersive experience it offers, despite some criticism regarding the complexity of gameplay mechanics. Overall, it provides a rich platform for storytelling within the context of football management.

The grinding aspect of the game is often described as tedious and repetitive, particularly for newcomers who may find the initial learning curve overwhelming. While some players appreciate the deeper interactions with their team, many feel that the extensive time required to complete tasks, such as player transfers, can detract from the overall enjoyment. However, recent updates have introduced features that help alleviate some of the grind, making it slightly more engaging.

The humor in the game is largely derived from its numerous bugs and exaggerated gameplay mechanics, such as the ease of acquiring players and the overpowered wingbacks. While some players find the absurdities amusing, others criticize the lack of realism and the poor user interface, suggesting that the humor can sometimes overshadow the game's flaws. Overall, the comedic elements make it entertaining, albeit inconsistently.

The music aspect of the game is largely criticized for its absence, with players noting a complete lack of background music and sound effects, which detracts from the overall experience. Many users express a desire for the inclusion of club chants or songs, as well as voice acting, to enhance immersion. Overall, the game is seen as better suited for background play while listening to other music or media.

Players express frustration with the monetization model, particularly the presence of ads in a game they purchased for €55, feeling that paying for a game should not come with additional advertising. This has led to dissatisfaction, as many believe that the inclusion of ads undermines the value of their purchase.

Reviewers emphasize that sound plays a crucial role in enhancing the atmosphere of football games, noting that the current audio experience in the game is lacking despite the company's significant resources. There is hope for improvements in future updates, particularly regarding match day sounds, while the new media page has been positively received for creating a more inviting office environment. Overall, the atmosphere is seen as an area needing substantial enhancement.

The game offers a mix of opinions on replayability; while some users highlight its infinite replayability due to micro-management and a strong community, others feel it lacks significant replay value. Overall, the experience may vary depending on player engagement and preferences.

Players describe the emotional experience of the game as a thrilling roller coaster, filled with intense highs and lows, including dramatic comebacks and last-minute goals. The frustration of defeats and the attachment to players add to the emotional stakes, leading some to contemplate quitting while others are drawn to invest even more time. Overall, the game evokes strong feelings, making each match a memorable and impactful experience.