Football Manager's journey took a significant detour recently, with the cancellation of the highly anticipated FM25, marking a first in Sports Interactive's 30-year history. Studio director Miles Jacobson revealed the game faced two delays before the complete cancellation, due to issues stemming from an ambitious new engine and a radical change in UI design that made the experience clunky and less enjoyable. Instead of compromising the game's quality, the development team shifted focus towards FM26, which aims for a more refined and fun experience. Jacobson expressed that despite the setbacks, considerable progress is being made, and he's optimistic about delivering a product that meets the expectations of dedicated fans.

Why was Football Manager 25 cancelled?

Football Manager 25 was cancelled due to significant usability issues with the new engine and a UI overhaul that detracted from the gameplay experience. The developers realized the game was not fun enough to meet their quality standards, leading to a strategic decision to focus their resources on Football Manager 26 instead.

Football Manager is a long-standing series known for its in-depth simulation of football management, allowing players to take control of teams and navigate the challenges of the sport. Its legacy includes a loyal fanbase that anticipates annual releases, making the cancellation of FM25 a notable event in gaming history.