It seems unfair and unjust to such an incredible game with so many realistic and brilliant features to sum it up in a short two paragraph review. I will try though. I have bought the last three games in the "FM" series, football manager 2008 i had to say was probably the greatest ever game i have ever bought, truly inspiring the enjoyment which came out of playing, it wasn't completely realistic, but still addictive and brilliant nevertheless. Now onto 2009, i think i should just make it clear if i was a first time buyer of this game, i would have given it 5 stars, but the fact 08 built my expectations up so much, the game would have to be perfect for it to receive the full 5 stars, and that, it is not.
It's a shame really, especially after seeing the trailer of all the new features they have brought in, that it isn't at the unbelievable standard of 08. The 3d match play they have brought in is poor and the press conferences are lamely unrealistic. These two features was what i… more »

It seems unfair and unjust to such an incredible game with so many realistic and brilliant features to sum it up in a short two paragraph review. I will try though. I have bought the last three games in the "FM" series, football manager 2008 i had to say was probably the greatest ever game i have ever bought, truly inspiring the enjoyment which came out of playing, it wasn't completely realistic, but still addictive and brilliant nevertheless. Now onto 2009, i think i should just make it clear if i was a first time buyer of this game, i would have given it 5 stars, but the fact 08 built my expectations up so much, the game would have to be perfect for it to receive the full 5 stars, and that, it is not.
It's a shame really, especially after seeing the trailer of all the new features they have brought in, that it isn't at the unbelievable standard of 08. The 3d match play they have brought in is poor and the press conferences are lamely unrealistic. These two features was what i was most excited about when i bought this game, this is what would set it apart from 08. In fact, i am so unhappy with the two features i choose not to use them both, i stick to the original match play (2d) and send my assistant to all the press conferences. Again as seen with all manager games, player and staff communications is vastly unrealistic. you have no real relationships with players, the ones you do have are vague and very artificial. This is the same as your relationship with other managers. The confidence bar brought in is actually rather good, it adds a new level to the game and is probably the greatest update.
Overall, despite my criticisms, the game, as expected is superb, though in actual fact, it's only slightly better than 08 and for that reason it gets only 3 stars. Though for me it is still a must-buy purchase for all football lovers and for £15. its one of the best "value for money" purchases you will ever make.