Football Manager 2021

89%
Game Brain Score Based on 12,090 reviews
  • gameplay
  • graphics
  • optimization
Football Manager 2021 Game Cover
Football Manager 2021 may not revolutionise the series, but instead it adds countless quality-of-life improvements – including ones to the match engine – that make it the best Football Manager game to date.
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"Football Manager 2021" is a football simulation game that allows players to manage a football club, making various tactical and strategic decisions. The game features improved match engine dynamics, enhanced opposition AI, and a revamped scouting system, providing a realistic and immersive experience for football management enthusiasts. Players can now also engage with their staff and players more directly through expanded interaction options, adding a new layer of depth to the game.

  • Mac OS
  • PC
  • Steam Deck
  • Windows
  • Cloud
  • NVIDIA GeForce NOW
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

89%
Audience ScoreBased on 12,090 reviews
gameplay57 positive mentions
stability50 negative mentions
  • gameplay191 mentions

    The gameplay of the game has received mixed reviews, with many praising its depth and improved mechanics, particularly in the match engine and user interface, which enhance realism and engagement. However, some players criticize the presence of frustrating RNG elements and a steep learning curve, making it less accessible for newcomers. Overall, while the game shows significant improvements over previous iterations, it still retains some issues that can detract from the experience.

    • “And it's remarkable how that depth of gameplay is seamlessly combined with such an easy interface.”
    • “The game is very in-depth, and with a solid tutorial that allows new players to learn the complex mechanics of the game while starting a proper save.”
    • “Football Manager 21 takes a step forward and provides enhanced gameplay with a far more refined game engine in comparison to previous years, which did not have the most consistent or entertaining engines.”
    • “Gameplay is trash, mechanics are all over the place and RNG will try to mess you over all the time.”
    • “This year, I haven't even completed one season because the gameplay is so rubbish I just get tired of it and turn the game off.”
    • “I believe a lot should be done before the game is released out of beta and the unacceptable culture of releasing unfinished and buggy games should be finished at some point, since each further released patch will ruin a save game with hundreds of hours of gameplay wasted.”
  • graphics146 mentions

    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.

    • “The new graphics and game engine are so much better than last year's.”
    • “The graphics have had an overhaul and are much better than previous years; there isn't really too much I can say other than... they look great!”
    • “Much improved, better running speed, better graphics, better match day engine, well worth the purchase.”
    • “Personally, I can't get past the 2004 graphics, complete lack of music, almost complete lack of sound, wobbly animations, and utterly obnoxious UI.”
    • “Ultimately, this game still has graphics of a game from 2006 and sound from a game in the mid-90s.”
    • “The graphics and engine are still terrible looking and a stupid, clunky mess.”
  • optimization65 mentions

    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.

    • “This year’s match engine is where I find everything comes together and the best way to learn about my squad is to see them in action, watching (and often, shouting) from the sidelines as their training, mental preparedness, and interpersonal dynamics all come together into a single performance.”
    • “Of the three iterations of Football Manager I have played (19, 20, 21), FM21 is the best, both in playability and optimization.”
    • “Optimization has been taken to a new level.”
    • “Absolutely shocking game, so many bugs with match engines like the same team wearing 2 different kits. It's awful considering I built a new PC thinking it was my previous computer's performance, but it's actually how bad the game is/runs. I'm pretty sure they introduced the match engine in 2009 and it's exactly the same.”
    • “It costs 50 euros per year and is not optimized until March (goes on sale in November).”
    • “However, this year’s offering stands out as recent patches to the game have caused further, more serious issues with the analysis of player performance.”
  • stability52 mentions

    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 format is laid out nicely, the instructions are helpful, it has no glitches or major issues, and can be addicting.”
    • “Match engine this year is, unfortunately, a buggy mess.”
    • “The worst thing about it so far is the amount of times the game freezes or the game glitches out.”
    • “They leave a knowingly buggy game broken and then expect us all to pay for it again next year in hope that they’ve finally fixed what we paid for last year.”
  • story44 mentions

    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.

    • “Very realistic but also allows you to create a story, e.g., get Bath to the Premier League or win the Champions League with a 2nd division Welsh team, etc.”
    • “Trust me, I spent 500+ hours crafting storylines for my head coach and his journey with the Brazilian wonderkids on his team.”
    • “Creating your own club, taking a bottom-of-the-league team and turning them into a success story, watching your striker go from goal drought to rainforest, cheering when your players win after a hard-fought penalty kickoff.”
    • “Unfortunately, these series have been slowly losing their plot for a long time, and for a yearly customer since the 95/96 season, it pains me to call it a day with FM.”
    • “End of story.”
    • “Same story apparently with FM22.”
  • grinding18 mentions

    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.

    • “Boring, tedious, not a simulation, not a fun game either.”
    • “As a newcomer to the football manager series, getting over the hump of the first few playing sessions was both boring and tedious as you are lost in doing menial tasks while learning how to play.”
    • “The transfer of a player is such a tedious procedure.”
  • humor16 mentions

    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.

    • “It's worth buying just to see the hilarious way it rigs the matches.”
    • “There's no challenge in getting the right players - if in previous FMs it was ridiculously hard to buy or sell specific players (such as in smaller leagues), in this one it's hilariously easy.”
    • “Some more minor issues - wingbacks are hilariously overpowered in the right setting, easily scoring a hat trick with long shots outside the box.”
  • music14 mentions

    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.

    • “You'll want some music playing in the background though.”
    • “Perhaps include chants, or DLC to include club songs such as if you play as Liverpool you get the first verse of a muffled 'You'll Never Walk Alone', maybe some commentary.”
    • “Can play some music, put a match on the second monitor or crack a beer and just enjoy the game!”
    • “I wish there was music on the homescreen or any sound honestly, the only sounds in this game are fans cheering.”
    • “Personally, I can't get past the 2004 graphics, complete lack of music, almost complete lack of sound, wobbly animations and utterly obnoxious UI.”
    • “A lack of voice acting is sad, but no music, no sound effects when changing tabs or emails or anything is just... off-putting.”
  • monetization8 mentions

    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.

    • “There's ads in a game I paid 55 euros for, fuck off.”
    • “Sick of paying for ads.”
    • “It will even allow for more advertising in the stands.”
  • atmosphere8 mentions

    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.

    • “I know 99% of FM players play with the sound off, but sound is a huge part of football - it's a huge part of the atmosphere.”
    • “This is a company that makes hundreds of millions of dollars, and hiring some sound developers and giving the game a much larger improvement to atmosphere and graphics shouldn't be as slow a progression as it has been.”
    • “Sound is a huge part of football - it's a huge part of the atmosphere.”
    • “This is a company that makes hundreds of millions of dollars, and hiring some sound developers to improve the atmosphere and graphics shouldn't be as slow a progression as it has been.”
    • “I won't hold my breath for the match sounds to be fixed, but I hope that it will be a feature of FM22: 'new and improved match day experience and atmosphere!'”
  • replayability6 mentions

    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.

    • “Infinite replayability”
    • “Micro-managing and immersion is the bread and butter of this game, and the improved match engine with a large and dedicated community allows for ultimate replayability.”
    • “It's okay, I guess. Not a lot of replayability though.”
    • “Micro-managing and immersion is the bread and butter of this game, but the replayability feels limited.”
  • emotional6 mentions

    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.

    • “Every match is a wonderful emotional roller coaster with amazing comebacks, crazy overturns, and last-minute goals, no matter what you try to do.”
    • “I am walking the line between deleting the game and never touching it again or sinking another 3 years into it.”
    • “Blood, sweat, and tears went into making this absolute belter of a tactic only for Fulham to stick nine past me, then to insult the already emotionally dead Danny Rose, who I sold to them, stuck a screamer into my top corner.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

Critic Reviews

84% average critic score

Buy Football Manager 2021

Play time

98hMedian play time
306hAverage play time
30-750hSpent by most gamers
*Based on 30 analyzed playthroughs

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