The release of Football Manager 2022 has been pushed back to March next year due to production issues faced by developer Sports Interactive (SI). This year’s game, FM25, was anticipated to bring a “new era” with the introduction of the women’s game powered by a new engine. However, SI admitted to a “difficult development cycle” and unforeseen problems, leading to the removal of certain features from the game.
Initially scheduled for release at the end of November, the release date was further delayed to March 2025. This decision left many fans disappointed as they will have only two months of the active season to play the game before summer. Despite the backlash, Sports Interactive stood by their decision, citing the need for more time to ensure the game meets their standards.
In a statement, SI acknowledged the disappointment felt by fans and apologized for the delay. The studio recognized the pressure they were under to rush the production and admitted that they were in danger of compromising their usual standards. While fans and popular Football Manager streamers expressed their disappointment on social media, SI assured that those who had pre-ordered the game could claim a refund if desired.
The delay of Football Manager 2022 highlights the challenges faced by game developers in meeting high expectations and delivering quality content. It also underscores the importance of prioritizing quality over rushed production timelines to ensure a satisfying gaming experience for players. As fans eagerly await the release of FM25 in March, they can expect a game that has been carefully crafted to meet the standards set by Sports Interactive.