Football Manager 2017

Football Manager 2017 is a single-player and multiplayer sports management simulation game. The game places the player in the role of a football manager tasked with guiding a club to success on and off the pitch. From the first day of employment, the player takes control of all managerial responsibilities, including squad selection, training, transfers, finances, and tactical planning. The overarching objective is to build a competitive team capable of meeting the board’s expectations, achieving results in matches, and developing a long-term legacy.

The 2017 version introduces several new systems and refinements over its predecessor, including an enhanced match engine. A new “Brexit” simulation randomly presents one of three scenarios - ranging from minimal impact to strict new immigration controls, reflecting potential real-world political outcomes. Manager avatars can now be customized with imported photos and appearance options, while a social media feed supplements the inbox by displaying simulated fan reactions and rumors. Fantasy Draft mode has been updated for multiplayer competition.

Gameplay revolves around decision-making and management rather than direct control of players during matches. The player sets formations, tactical instructions, and roles for each footballer, with outcomes displayed through a 3D match engine or a text-based commentary system. Substitutions, tactical adjustments, and in-game feedback allow the manager to influence performance in real time.

Squad management is central to progression. Players handle contracts, scouting, and transfers, with a database of thousands of footballers from leagues worldwide. Scouts provide reports on player potential and hidden attributes, guiding transfer decisions and youth development. Training schedules can be tailored to improve team cohesion, enhance fitness, or develop individual skills.

Secondary systems expand the managerial experience. The game simulates media interactions, where dialogue choices affect public perception and squad morale. Negotiations with agents and directors determine contract outcomes, while staff assignments allow delegation of tasks such as scouting or training. Club finances, sponsorship deals, and infrastructure improvements are also under the player’s oversight.

Multiplayer options include online leagues where players compete as rival managers in the same world. Cross-platform play is possible within the same version, and leaderboards allow comparisons of managerial performance across save files. Single-player offers the ability to manage across decades, with player retirements, regens, and evolving club histories generating unique narratives in each career.