Overview
- Football Manager 2024 will have an extended presence on Xbox Game Pass due to the cancellation of the 2025 edition.
- The latest installment, FM24, is acclaimed for its authentic gameplay, enabling players to manage every facet of football operations.
- FM25 faced cancellation after experiencing a delay, increasing expectations for future releases.
Football Manager 2024 is set to enjoy an extended period on Xbox Game Pass following the recent cancellation of the franchise’s 2025 installment. This beloved sports management simulation has captivated audiences since its debut in 2005, originally branded as Championship Manager before evolving into its current form. Over the years, Football Manager has blossomed into a celebrated franchise with more than 20 core titles, and the latest iteration—FM24—upholds this tradition of excellence.
The recent success of FM24 is noteworthy, as it rapidly gained a following, surpassing 17 million lifetime players, making it the most engaged edition in the series history. Renowned for its hyper-realistic depiction of football management, this simulation allows players to take complete control over all aspects of a club, from tactical decisions to player transfers and financial management. Many fans and critics alike hail Football Manager as one of the premier sports management simulators available today.
According to an announcement on the official Football Manager website, FM24’s availability on various subscription platforms will last until the arrival of the next series installment. These platforms include Apple Arcade, Xbox Game Pass, PlayStation Plus, and Netflix. Additionally, the game will remain purchasable through Steam, Epic Games, the Microsoft Store, PlayStation Store, and Nintendo eShop through the end of the calendar year.
Football Manager 2024 Availability Until FM26 Launch
The decision to prolong FM24’s presence was influenced by discussions with multiple platforms and licensing partners. While not stated outright, it is probable that this extension has taken place due to the cancellation of Football Manager 2025. Typically, the release of a new edition prompts the discontinuation of the preceding title; FM25 was initially set for a March 2025 release but was scrapped a month prior to launch due to the developers’ inability to meet expected quality standards.
FM25 was anticipated to bring about the most substantial changes in nearly 20 years, featuring upgrades to the Unity Engine, enhancements to the match engine, and a revamped user interface. Originally scheduled for November 2024, its development encountered numerous hurdles, resulting in a delay that pushed it to a March release date. Ultimately, after additional complications, the game was canceled, heightening the pressure on the development team to deliver a strong new installment next year. This is especially critical given that Football Manager represents Sports Interactive’s flagship product and a significant revenue stream.
Despite these challenges surrounding FM25, the Football Manager franchise continues to be a leading choice among sports simulations, particularly noted for its highly praised career mode. For the time being, fans can look forward to enjoying Football Manager 2024 until the next edition makes its debut.