CM 03/04: Purchase?

[GrantDawg]

I didn't buy this year’s incarnation for a couple of reasons (I didn't like the fact it doesn't have the MLS and the strikers scoring 90% of the goals in CM4 got old). I'm now getting that CM itch, though, and have been playing 01/02. Since I bought the download version, I can't get the last patch (which is a little aggravating) and I can't install it on my alternate boot. So, I'm considering purchasing CM 03/04.

<O:p

First, should I? Second, is there any place on the web I might buy a used version? I checked ebay, and all that is on there is the Thai version, and I don't trust that it is not a pirated copy, plus I do not want to wait two weeks.<O:p

<O:p

Thanks in advance.<O:p

[Calis]

CM03/04 is most definitely worth purchasing.

Fixxed most of the problem's with CM4 and is just an all around great game. Buy it whatever way you can. ;) I think their are some user made patches that will add most of the MLS players and such..not really sure because it never bothered me much. Scoring is much better now as well, at least from what I've seen.

Not sure where is a good place to order used games though.

[SirFozzie]

The Calcio Update has a lot of the American players.

CM 03/04 is the best game out there.. Of course, FM2005 will likely blow it away.. but if SI hold to form, it will not be out until Christmas.

[Fonzie]

I agree with what Calis and SirFozzie said. CM03/04 is the game CM4 should have been - it is well worth the money.

Sorry I can't help with online used game purchases, though. No idea there.

[bamcgee]

I heartily recommend it. You'll get a ton of enjoyable hours out of it.

[QuikSand]

I generally agree that 03/03 is worth the purchase. I'm heavy into it right now.

I will say that I think the scoring is still a bit stilted toward strikers, which I am adjusting to but reluctantly. I don't know how well this comports with real futbol (where I just plead ignorance) but my strikers get a MUCH higher share of the team's goals than was the case in 00/01, the last version I played before CM4.

[SirFozzie]

For me, the midfielders get a ton of goals, but then again, I'm using a so called "Super" Tactic ;)

(The infamous Diablo v2!) :)

[Honolulu_Blue]

For me, the midfielders get a ton of goals, but then again, I'm using a so called "Super" Tactic ;)

(The infamous Diablo v2!) :)

I tried that tactic. I just got smoked. Absolutely killed. I scored a lot, but always gave up a ton more. Didn't know where the team went wrong.

[SirFozzie]

you need a fast midfielder with killer finishing (for example, in my current fun game (I don't use Diablo in a "real" game), I have Adrian Mutu who scores about 2-3 a game at Midfielder.. and a very good tackling DMC. Your forwards just need good finishing :)

[Eaglesfan27]

I just purchased this game and I never really got into CM4 or any of it's previous incarnations, so I'm still a neophyte to soccer strategy. Any good sites that people would recommend I check out for a general soccer strategy primer? The game should be here tomorrow, and I'd like something to read before then. Thanks.

[SirFozzie]

Checkout www.thedugout.net for good CM based strategy..

also good is www.bigsoccer.com 's forums.

[Calis]

There's all sorts of good places to look. The Dugout is probably the biggest of the CM sites. So check that out, there's CM Faqs, and lots of other places with guides.

If I wasn't so lazy I'd look 'em all up for you..they're easy to find though. ;)

EDIT: SirFozzie beat me to the Dugout, so lets just say I give it a hearty endorsement as well.

[Eaglesfan27]

ok.. I guess I need to try The Dugout and these other sites again :)

Thanks for the replies. Also, I've never been to bigsoccer, I'll have to check that out too.

[Desnudo]

you need a fast midfielder with killer finishing (for example, in my current fun game (I don't use Diablo in a "real" game), I have Adrian Mutu who scores about 2-3 a game at Midfielder.. and a very good tackling DMC. Your forwards just need good finishing :)

What do you use in a "serious" game where you lay it all on the line for God and Country? :p

BTW, a search will find a lot of threads on this topic.

[SirFozzie]

What do you use in a "serious" game where you lay it all on the line for God and Country? :p

BTW, a search will find a lot of threads on this topic.

I only use quick load tactics, or slight modification to those basic tactics to avoid metagaming. Diablo is fun, but scores of 8-1 isn't exactly realistic :P

[ice4277]

I think I need to start using the Diablo tactic. As Barnsley, I have played Blackpool 3 times this season, twice in the league and once in the FA Cup. Scorelines for each game: 4-0, 4-0, 4-0, each in favor of Blackpool. Ouch. I have never had a run like that against another team.

[andy m]

CM03/04 restored the fun that was missing from CM4 for me. not sure why, it just is much more enjoyable to play. my strikers score way more goals than the rest of my team (they had 40 and 30 respectively in a promotion campaign from Scottish Division 2, my next highest player had 3), but i can over-look that when the game is as good as it is.

[Desnudo]

CM03/04 restored the fun that was missing from CM4 for me. not sure why, it just is much more enjoyable to play. my strikers score way more goals than the rest of my team (they had 40 and 30 respectively in a promotion campaign from Scottish Division 2, my next highest player had 3), but i can over-look that when the game is as good as it is.

I agree. It's a lot of subtle differences that make it a much better game. The striker thing, I don't know why people have a problem with that. In real life all the top scorers in the EPL are strikers. You can adjust tactics to make other positions score more if that's what you want to see.

[andy m]

yes, i am pretty aware of how real football works as i have been a fan for 20 years ;) but CM does still come across as slightly imbalanced in this department to me. my tactics were playing using the default 4-4-2 (attacking) with wingers going forward. i don't think this tactic would lead to scoring as many goals i did, with the proportion of goals being scored by non-strikers so low (and this has been something i have seen with other teams i have run in CM03/04 too). whatever. it's an amazing game that i have poured many many hours into. :)

[ice4277]

I think one reason it seems like too many goals are scored by forwards is that too many goals were scored by non-forwards in pre-CM4 version. I used to consistently have midfielders scoring 15+ goals in a season, oftentimes outscoring the forwards.

[Ragone]

I am having 0 luck finding it any cheaper then say 39 bucks.. :(

[ice4277]

That's the lowest you are going to find it I think.

[Ragone]

bleh.. gogamer it is then :P

[Marc Vaughan]

I think one reason it seems like too many goals are scored by forwards is that too many goals were scored by non-forwards in pre-CM4 version. I used to consistently have midfielders scoring 15+ goals in a season, oftentimes outscoring the forwards.
The match engine is something which we're constantly tweaking and tuning towards being as realistic as possible.

IRL you'll find teams which have a disproportionate amount of goals scored by a single striker (eg. Arsenal - Henry (25) next best is Pires (12)) and also teams built not to be quite so reliant on a single player (eg. Charlton - Euell 7, Lisbie 5, Jensen 5, Bartlett 5).

This happens within the game and is largely down to the style of play and type of team that you build.

PS. In case of interest in the English Premiership teams which do extremely well have generally relied heavily on one extremely effective striker (ie. Henry, Van Nistelrooy, Shearer (when with blackburn Blackburn), Cole (when with Newcastle) etc.) ... Chelsea are bucking the trend somewhat this year by performing well without a truly central player scoring goals (Hasselbaink has 17, but 4 other players in the squad have 10 or over)

[SirFozzie]

Found a tweak for the match engine that stops diablo yet, Marc? :)

[Ragone]

so is gogamer the best choice for us ordering? gonna order later today :P

[Marc Vaughan]

Found a tweak for the match engine that stops diablo yet, Marc? :)

Yeah - unfortunately its called FM and will be part of the natural evolution of the match engine for that game (its not one single aspect which made diablo effective - its something which is requiring a lot of retuning and evolving of the AI - hence its in progress and won't be a patch).

[ice4277]

How is the Diablo formation set up? I've never really paid much attention to the whole Diablo thing as I never use tactics I don't make myself.

[SirFozzie]

it has a lot of arrows and the like, and I'm at work, but if folks want a copy of it, PM me and I'll send it out tonight.. but it's a 4-1-3-2.

Back Row: DL DC DC DR
Next: DMC
Midfield: ML MC MR
Next:
Forward: FC FC

It had a lot of wacky with ball and without ball stuff, I can't replicate here.. but the gist of it.. the forwards would usually peel off to the left and right, and the defenders would follow them, and this would free a long ball over the middle to the MC, who would then have a easy path to the net.

[condors]

wonder if the diablo tactic was named after marco etcheverry...

[Eaglesfan27]

Hopefully, my game will arrive today. Question: Do most people recommend getting the 4.1.5 version? If anyone isn't using the latest patch (or EP or whatever it is called ;) ) then why aren't you using the latest? Thanks for the feedback.

[BreizhManu]

Hopefully, my game will arrive today. Question: Do most people recommend getting the 4.1.5 version? If anyone isn't using the latest patch (or EP or whatever it is called ;) ) then why aren't you using the latest? Thanks for the feedback.

yes i recommend it, but remember you must download the 4.1.4 and the 4.1.5 (can only be applied to a 4.1.4 version)

[Eaglesfan27]

Do I need to download anything else?

[Eaglesfan27]

Dola - I just found Marc's Tips which I had saved on my computer from CM4 (which I never really got into for a variety of reasons.) I'm wondering if there is any newer newbie document or if his tips document for CM4 is the latest documentation and if most of what is in there applies to CM 03/04?

[SirFozzie]

4.1.4 and 4.1.5 are the only patches you need. You may want to download an update, but it's not necessary.

[Eaglesfan27]

4.1.4 and 4.1.5 are the only patches you need. You may want to download an update, but it's not necessary.

:confused: What sort of update are you talking about it, and where would I get it? All I see are the patches, the MCM editor, and some skins over at SIgames forum?

[SirFozzie]

SIGames can't recommend an Update, but the Dugout has quite a few, or do a websearch for "Calcio Update"

an update is an update of transfers and in cases where seasons have passed, putting teams in proper divisions.

[ice4277]

Another good one is the CM Sorted update. I have heard of some people having problems getting the Calcio update to work correctly with the game. Just FYI.

[Senator]

EaglesFan and I are right together in the learning phase. I have enjoyed it quite a bit, when I have the time.

[bamcgee]

to the best of my knowledge, the tips and tricks have not been updated for 03/04, but the same principles apply.

[GrantDawg]

Ok, going gogamer. Wish I could have gotten it cheaper. :)

(not trying to cut you out, Marc, but it has been out a little while.)

[Eaglesfan27]

Ahh, I will look around for these updates. I'm just finishing catching up on this forum, then I'm off to install the game, patches, and updates as well as read the tactics :)

Thanks for the replies and yeah Senator, I feel like I'm just beginning to climb a big (but hopefully enjoyable) learning curve with this series.

[ice4277]

I feel like I'm just beginning to climb a big (but hopefully enjoyable) learning curve with this series.
Once you fully get into the game, it should make every other text sim you play pale in comparison.

[Pumpy Tudors]

I've resigned under pressure from one team, been sacked by another, and now been hired by a team that was nearly relegated from the same division of the team that sacked me. I saved my latest team from relegation by throttling an opponent in a playoff, so I get at least one season (I hope) against my old team. Most other games have me feeling pretty put off after losing a coaching job, but I'm excited about the opportunity to build another team. It just takes so long to learn the strengths and weaknesses of each club... all part of the fun, I guess!

You guys are gonna love it.

[Eaglesfan27]

Is the superpack 3 worth downloading? I hope so, since I started and it is 122 MB which will take a few minutes even on a cable modem.

Also, anyone know of any problems with the commentary file version 2.01, or is that worth using as well.

I'm looking at all of this stuff at the Dugout site. By the way, I went with the CMsorted update since it had a higher rating and more downloads.

[terpkristin]

Hey silly question...
is there a place where the websites and stuff are listed for updates, tips, etc?
I see you guys talk about "the XYZ update" or such, but don't know where to find them....and I ordered my copy 2 days ago, got the shipping confirmation today so it should be here by Friday me thinks.. :D

~tk

[Eaglesfan27]

Well, I'm a newbie to this, but the dugout seems very helpful.

The link is:

http://www.thedugout.net/index.php

[klayman]

Is the superpack 3 worth downloading? I hope so, since I started and it is 122 MB which will take a few minutes even on a cable modem.

Also, anyone know of any problems with the commentary file version 2.01, or is that worth using as well.


I've used both without any problems.

[Senator]

EF - I downloaded the patches, the superpack, and the commentary file. Working great. I did not mess with the Calico file, as I heard a few problems with it, and I don't care if the teams are updated, I hardly know who anyone is anyway.

[Eaglesfan27]

Good. I just finished downloading and installing both of those :)

[Eaglesfan27]

EF - I downloaded the patches, the superpack, and the commentary file. Working great. I did not mess with the Calico file, as I heard a few problems with it, and I don't care if the teams are updated, I hardly know who anyone is anyway.

I thought about not downloading an update for the same reason :)

I'm not really sure why I did download the CMsorted update as I really don't know who most of these people are, and I wouldn't know if they were on the wrong club or not. Oh well, I'm off to try using the walkthrough in the manual and then diving in a bit further.

[daedalus]

Once you fully get into the game, it should make every other text sim you play pale in comparison.Shamefully, this is so very true. FOF2004 is an incredibly good game but I can't get into it like I did with EA-FOF after having played CM 01/02. Besides the usual things that people mentioned, the absolutely deciding factor for me is the fact that the world doesn't revolve around me. I could be doing great, I could be doing poorly, I may not even have a job and the rest of the soccer world will just be going. For me, that's great.

[Eaglesfan27]

Ok, I never really even gave CM4 a fair shot because of all of the negative comments about it (even though I had purchased it - it mostly sat on my shelf.) In any case, this game is already hooking me into it. I tried the quick walkthrough in the manual and I managed to have a 1-1 draw where I was Southend and my first friendly opponent was Notts. I believe. In any case, this game is already making me have a million questions: What are the penalties for playing a guy "out of position?" I ask because my key player is at a position where I believe better players are available and I don't want to anger him if it is going to cause discord with my team, but I do want the best team on the pitch.

Secondly, what do you watch during the game highlights, my eyes are captivated by the little round dots, but I'm afraid I'll miss important text at the bottom of the screen :)

Also, from my very limited tinkering with CM4, I seem to remember it recommended an appropriate number of leagues based on your computer's specs, yet I can't seem to find where this version does that. I have a pentium IV 1.8 gHZ 512 MB ram, windows XP so what size database should I run and how many leagues can I run without "too much" slowdown? The game was running very quickly with just the English league as an active league and no background leagues (which is how the walkthrough suggested setting it up in the manual.)

I have many other questions, but I imagine I should keep reading the manual and Marc's tips. However, I'm quite excited about this game and was hoping for some advice from my fellow CM players :)

[GrantDawg]

By and by, has the patches quickened CM 03/04? I was hearing bad things.

[Desnudo]

questions: What are the penalties for playing a guy "out of position?" I ask because my key player is at a position where I believe better players are available and I don't want to anger him if it is going to cause discord with my team, but I do want the best team on the pitch.

Also, from my very limited tinkering with CM4, I seem to remember it recommended an appropriate number of leagues based on your computer's specs, yet I can't seem to find where this version does that. I have a pentium IV 1.8 gHZ 512 MB ram, windows XP so what size database should I run and how many leagues can I run without "too much" slowdown? The game was running very quickly with just the English league as an active league and no background leagues (which is how the walkthrough suggested setting it up in the manual.)

I'd play the players where you best think they are suited. There is no penalty for playing a player out of position other than the obvious one that they might not be suited for it. Players do have a hidden 1-20 rating for various positions though. You can also try to retrain them to play new positions.

Game speed is always a relative thing for people, but I would avoid the large database unless you are a masochist. Medium database with <15 leagues should run fine on your specs. This is fine in terms of CM speed which is much slower than any other game. Small will cruise. If you want to speed up the game more, don't run any of the leagues with "Full Detail" checked. There really isn't much benefit to checking it that I've seen since the league you're managing in automatically runs in full detail.

Don't get down if the game runs slow on initial start-up. You'll see that the Summer transfer window (European runs roughly July-August) is substantially slower to run than the rest of the year.

[Eaglesfan27]

I'm trying to decide which team to be (I know I want to be in a lower league) and I've noticed that many of the teams have serious financial problems. Am I likely going to have to sell off my few good players (assuming whatever team I pick has a few) just to stay financially solvent?

[Axxon]

I'm trying to decide which team to be (I know I want to be in a lower league) and I've noticed that many of the teams have serious financial problems. Am I likely going to have to sell off my few good players (assuming whatever team I pick has a few) just to stay financially solvent?

Try Hull if this is your first game. They are in the english third division but with almost no effort can easily play in the first. They are a lot of fun to play and the game will be very forgiving. Nice for a beginner to play. You won't have the cash or the reputation to make huge signings though but you have a great stadium and if you don't spend any money by the time you're in the first division, you'll have the cash and the experience to know who to buy and to pursue them.

After that, move on down into the conference and play like a man. :)

[Eaglesfan27]

I hadn't looked at them yet, but I will soon.. or maybe I better go to sleep so I can get up for work. Nah, one quick little look won't hurt ;)

In all seriousness, I've set my alarm on my beeper to go off at midnight at which time I WILL make myself quit to make sure I get enough sleep tonight :p

[SirFozzie]

Is the superpack 3 worth downloading? I hope so, since I started and it is 122 MB which will take a few minutes even on a cable modem.

Also, anyone know of any problems with the commentary file version 2.01, or is that worth using as well.

I'm looking at all of this stuff at the Dugout site. By the way, I went with the CMsorted update since it had a higher rating and more downloads.

I use superpack 3. ANd it pisses me off that I forgot to mention it ;)

I mean, all logos, all player pictures? Me Like! :)

I haven't used a commentary update tho. Should be fun :)

[SirFozzie]

I hadn't looked at them yet, but I will soon.. or maybe I better go to sleep so I can get up for work. Nah, one quick little look won't hurt ;)

In all seriousness, I've set my alarm on my beeper to go off at midnight at which time I WILL make myself quit to make sure I get enough sleep tonight :p

Welcome to the addicts club ;)

[ice4277]

I use the Superpack and love it, can't imagine going back without it, especially for all the new background pics. One thing to keep in mind though, after installing it, the game takes a long time to load up, as the computer has to load all those thousands of pictures into memory. However, once into the actual game, your game speed will not be affected as well. Just wanted to point this out so you didn't think there was a problem when nothing happens for a couple minutes after trying to open the program.

Also, as to what to watch during the game, I usually pay closest attention to the 2D screen, but after a while you will get the knack for keeping track of both the players and the commentary. Also, don't forget that after the match, you can go back and look at the commentary, as well as replay all the 2D incidents, if there is something you want to take a closer look at.

For number of leagues, I would tend to agree with Desnudo, his recommendation seems about right. You really only need the league you are playing in to be on full detail; anything else slows the game down. The only reason I know of to have other leagues on full detail would be to watch match highlights from games in those leagues, but realistically, you wouldn't do that enough to make the slowdown worth it.

[Ragone]

does cm 03/04 have online play? if so would someone be interested in net play once i get the game and have a few days to get used to it? or is net play still unreliable?

[Eaglesfan27]

I use the Superpack and love it, can't imagine going back without it, especially for all the new background pics. One thing to keep in mind though, after installing it, the game takes a long time to load up, as the computer has to load all those thousands of pictures into memory. However, once into the actual game, your game speed will not be affected as well. Just wanted to point this out so you didn't think there was a problem when nothing happens for a couple minutes after trying to open the program.

Also, as to what to watch during the game, I usually pay closest attention to the 2D screen, but after a while you will get the knack for keeping track of both the players and the commentary. Also, don't forget that after the match, you can go back and look at the commentary, as well as replay all the 2D incidents, if there is something you want to take a closer look at.

For number of leagues, I would tend to agree with Desnudo, his recommendation seems about right. You really only need the league you are playing in to be on full detail; anything else slows the game down. The only reason I know of to have other leagues on full detail would be to watch match highlights from games in those leagues, but realistically, you wouldn't do that enough to make the slowdown worth it.

Yeah, it took a LONG time for the game to start. I actually clicked the start icon again, thinking something was wrong. It freaked me out a bit ;) But, once I got into the game, speeds were fine. The odd thing is I didn't even notice that my player's face were in the game. Maybe I was just overwhelmed with all the numbers? Where would I see a player's face at in the game?

In any case, I have to go to work and my wife is off tonight, but I can't wait to play tomorrow :)

[SirFozzie]

Click on the player's name, and it should be in the top corner on his stats page

[Marc Vaughan]

Dola - I just found Marc's Tips which I had saved on my computer from CM4 (which I never really got into for a variety of reasons.) I'm wondering if there is any newer newbie document or if his tips document for CM4 is the latest documentation and if most of what is in there applies to CM 03/04?

Yeah there's an updated version for CM03-04 kicking around on sigames.com somewhere - I try and ensure that I do a hints and tips file for each version of CM (and will continue this tradition for FM) ....

[Eaglesfan27]

Yeah there's an updated version for CM03-04 kicking around on sigames.com somewhere - I try and ensure that I do a hints and tips file for each version of CM (and will continue this tradition for FM) ....

I see. I'll have to take a look around for the CM03/04 tips as I just got home from work and had a pleasant surprise. My wife's best childhood friend arrived in town from Florida today as a surprise! Now, I love my wife and usually want to spend as much time with her on her day off as this is the only day we really get more then an hour to see each other, but I understand she wants to go out with her friend tonight and do "girls night out." I'm just so glad that tonight is the night that this happened so I can play CM 03/04. During the day at work, I finished reading the manual, and I read the CM4 version tips :)

[ice4277]

During the day at work, I finished reading the manual, and I read the CM4 version tips :)
At least you have your priorities straight there :D

[Eaglesfan27]

Well, I usually have time between patients that is downtime, so I have to do something relaxing or it could be a stressful job ;)

[Eaglesfan27]

Yeah there's an updated version for CM03-04 kicking around on sigames.com somewhere - I try and ensure that I do a hints and tips file for each version of CM (and will continue this tradition for FM) ....

Marc, I searched around on the SI site and I found several threads mentioning your tips in the magazine and asking when they would come out in PDF format, but I couldn't find any of your tips on the site. If you have a chance to perhaps direct me to a link I'd appreciate it :)

[Desnudo]

Marc, I searched around on the SI site and I found several threads mentioning your tips in the magazine and asking when they would come out in PDF format, but I couldn't find any of your tips on the site. If you have a chance to perhaps direct me to a link I'd appreciate it :)

That site is not for the navigationally challenged.

[GrantDawg]

That site is not for the navigationally challenged.
No joke. It is not very well put together. Things are hard to find and disappear regularly. They make great games, though. :)

[Eaglesfan27]

That site is not for the navigationally challenged.

Agreed. Also, I must be an idiot, but I'm still having trouble finding my player's faces so I came back to this thread just to make sure I wasn't missing something. Off I go to try again to see their faces. :o

[Pumpy Tudors]

I haven't closed CM 03/04 in over a week. It's been open on my machine while I play poker, check e-mail, browse FOFC. I'm addicted.

[Desnudo]

I haven't closed CM 03/04 in over a week. It's been open on my machine while I play poker, check e-mail, browse FOFC. I'm addicted.

That's not addicted. I quit my job so I could play it full time! Well not really, but quitting my job has allowed me to play it full time. As well as post drivel on this board at all hours of the day and night. It's also had the unfortunate side effect of me not wanting to return to work.

[Eaglesfan27]

Ok, I'm hitting history in the upper right hand corner of the player's sheet, to bring up their career stats and their form stats on the bottom section of the page. But, I still don't see a picture. It's not a big deal, but it's a little thing that is bugging me.

By the way, I'm thinking this Hull team is a very nice pick for me to start off as a beginner. I really like the ratings of some of the talent they have. Also, with CMSorted I see that Freddie Adu is in the game. Is it considered cheating to try to get him to come to my team ;)

[Eaglesfan27]

Ok, I AM an idiot. I just went back and reread what the superpack included. Silly me, thinking faces of players were included in this download (especially given the outrageous number of players in the game.) I do see everything that was supposed to be included in the pack in my game :o

[Desnudo]

Ok, I'm hitting history in the upper right hand corner of the player's sheet, to bring up their career stats and their form stats on the bottom section of the page. But, I still don't see a picture. It's not a big deal, but it's a little thing that is bugging me.

By the way, I'm thinking this Hull team is a very nice pick for me to start off as a beginner. I really like the ratings of some of the talent they have. Also, with CMSorted I see that Freddie Adu is in the game. Is it considered cheating to try to get him to come to my team ;)

It depends on the level of realism you want to implement. Some people go to extremes and will only scout the UK & Ireland since that's all you'd be able to afford as a lower league team. Others vary along the scale. I tend to lean towards the "I know who is, if I get him to sign for me, then great" school with players.

[Eaglesfan27]

Another question (maybe a stupid one): I'm setting up tactics for my 1st game and I'm sticking with mostly basic stuff for now. In any case, I'm trying to decide on who my setpiece takers should be and for the corner kicks I'm trying to figure out the perspective. So, should I want left footed kickers taking the "left corner kicks" or right footed kickers? Depending upon the perspective of what left and right cornerkicks are would change the answer I imagine.

[Axxon]

Depends on what you want. If you want corners to hook towards the keeper then go with the opposite foot than the corner. These work well against less brave or talented keepers obviously.

If you want corners to hook away from the keeper so you can set up a shot then have the same foot as the corner you're taking.

[Eaglesfan27]

Thanks, that makes sense. Well, off to see how my first "real" friendly match goes. :)

[Axxon]

Good luck, make sure you remember, Elliott is your friend. Oh yes he is. :)

[CraigSca]

Not that anyone cares, but I've been out of work for ...my Lord... 5 months now. Good grief. Anyway, when I DO get a new job, my wife and I have promised each other two things: 1) that night, we will go out (without the kids) for sushi and 2) we can treat ourselves to one "gift". My gift will be CM 03/04. :D

Hopefully this whole unemployment thing ends soon :).

-Craig

[Eaglesfan27]

I'm definitely liking Elliott. I know NOTHING about futbol outside the USA (I will watch MLS games when they are on if I'm not doing anything) so I'm not sure if he is just being incredibly lucky for me or what, but Walters is scoring great for me. Allsopp is also playing nicely. Elliott is playing well even though he is not scoring for me.

Quick question: I'm not playing in windowed mode, but I am using the windows key to switch out of the game and post here. Anyone else do that. If not, do you think I'm risking corrupting my current career? It seems to work fine each time I go back, but if I'm risking corrupting the career, I will just exit the program and deal with the somewhat lengthy restart time.

Oh, I almost forgot the reason I had to post. I just had the most exciting friendly where my backup striker Burgess scored the game winner against Coventry (Division I - which I assume means they are quite a bit more prestigious then my lowly divison III team) Burgess got pushed and he kicked over the wall from 25 yards out and beat the GK! :) So far, I'm 2-0 in friendlies and enjoying the game very much.

[Eaglesfan27]

Not that anyone cares, but I've been out of work for ...my Lord... 5 months now. Good grief. Anyway, when I DO get a new job, my wife and I have promised each other two things: 1) that night, we will go out (without the kids) for sushi and 2) we can treat ourselves to one "gift". My gift will be CM 03/04. :D

Hopefully this whole unemployment thing ends soon :).

-Craig

I hope unemployment ends quickly for you, and I applaud your choice of gift :)

[klayman]

I used to alt-tab out all the time without any problems

[Axxon]

I'm definitely liking Elliott. I know NOTHING about futbol outside the USA (I will watch MLS games when they are on if I'm not doing anything) so I'm not sure if he is just being incredibly lucky for me or what, but Walters is scoring great for me. Allsopp is also playing nicely. Elliott is playing well even though he is not scoring for me.

Quick question: I'm not playing in windowed mode, but I am using the windows key to switch out of the game and post here. Anyone else do that. If not, do you think I'm risking corrupting my current career? It seems to work fine each time I go back, but if I'm risking corrupting the career, I will just exit the program and deal with the somewhat lengthy restart time.

Oh, I almost forgot the reason I had to post. I just had the most exciting friendly where my backup striker Burgess scored the game winner against Coventry (Division I - which I assume means they are quite a bit more prestigious then my lowly divison III team) Burgess got pushed and he kicked over the wall from 25 yards out and beat the GK! :) So far, I'm 2-0 in friendlies and enjoying the game very much.

Never had a problem tabbing in and out and I've played this game a whole lot.

I don't know if Elliott is good IRL but he is gold in the game. Are you playing him as left striker or left winger?? As a winger he can cause damage making runs or by laying in crosses but he scores more as a forward and he'll still drift to the left wing and feed his partner.

[Eaglesfan27]

I've been playing him as a left winger. It sounds like from your advice, that I need to consider moving him to striker, although right now Allsopp and Walters are doing really well together in the box. Allsopp has 3 assists and Walters has 3 goals in 2 games. However, I'm experimenting with quite a few things in friendlies and I will definitely try Elliott at striker and see how he does. Thanks for the tip. You know, I should go to bed, but I want to play just one more game ;) I'll have to set my beeper at midnight again to make sure I get off in a few minutes.

Edited to add: Is there anyway to pause the game to read news items as they occur after you've hit continue game, or do you just have to wait until that turn is over and it stops on it's own?

[Axxon]

I'm not familiar with Walters. Where'd you pick him up from???

If you spent money on him it was money wasted. :)

[Eaglesfan27]

Walters was on the team, I've made no changes to Hull. I'm playing with the CMsorted update.

[Axxon]

Ah, I forget I'm using the original data and you're using an update. Where does it say he last played in his history? I'd like to check him out.

[Eaglesfan27]

He is 19, and he made 4 appearances for Bolton in 2002-2003 according to the history. My staff thinks he is a promising young striker. By the way did you see the question I added in by editing a post as you posted? The question is a few posts up.

[Axxon]

You just have to wait unfortunately but the game is really good about pausing for any important news so I don't worry about it much.

[Axxon]

Ah, started a new game just to see beginning stats and such. Can't see much about Walters due to the stats masking but he's worth 1.4 million pounds. Nice. He's listed for loan, is that how you have him or did Hull buy him??

Also, what is his pace?

[Eaglesfan27]

He was already on my team and he isn't on loan. He was just on the squad and listed as a first teamer. By the way, I started him on the left wing and moved Elliott to striker. Elliott was good, didn't score at all but had a few nice opportunites and generally kept the pressure on the opponent. My bloody goal tender let up a shot from over half the field away. He came out to get it for some reason and sailed right on over his head :( My first tie 2-2. These dots are so exciting, when Elliott had a breakaway my heart started beating a little faster. When Allsopp got his breakaway and put a great deke move on the goalie I was screaming with excitement. I must say these little dots are quite fun to watch ;)

As far as your questions let me look... ok don't laugh.. maybe it's low because he just suffered a minor injury in the last game - does playing people out of position possibly increase their injury frequency? In any case, his pace is currently listed as a 5 :o

Edited to add: I really want to play one more turn, but I'm forcing myself to get off here for the night and turn the game off.

[Axxon]

He was already on my team and he isn't on loan. He was just on the squad and listed as a first teamer. By the way, I started him on the left wing and moved Elliott to striker. Elliott was good, didn't score at all but had a few nice opportunites and generally kept the pressure on the opponent. My bloody goal tender let up a shot from over half the field away. He came out to get it for some reason and sailed right on over his head :( My first tie 2-2. These dots are so exciting, when Elliott had a breakaway my heart started beating a little faster. When Allsopp got his breakaway and put a great deke move on the goalie I was screaming with excitement. I must say these little dots are quite fun to watch ;)

As far as your questions let me look... ok don't laugh.. maybe it's low because he just suffered a minor injury in the last game - does playing people out of position possibly increase their injury frequency? In any case, his pace is currently listed as a 5 :o

No, pace doesn't change like that. For my teams this would be a killer. I try and have pacey players throughout the squad, especially in forward. I didn't always feel this way but it is one of the most important stats especially in the lower leagues which is where I almost always earn my football living.

AFAIK, injury isn't affected by where you play somebody. I've never anyone suggest it in any case.

[Marc Vaughan]

Quick question: I'm not playing in windowed mode, but I am using the windows key to switch out of the game and post here. Anyone else do that. If not, do you think I'm risking corrupting my current career? It seems to work fine each time I go back, but if I'm risking corrupting the career, I will just exit the program and deal with the somewhat lengthy restart time.
Should be fine the game is very friendly to ALT-TAB on most video cards (a small minority of video drivers don't send the refresh event which would mean you'd be left with a blank screen - but thats obviously not happening on yours).

Incidentally if this problem does occur to anyone here please simply press CTRL-F and that will flick the game into (or out of) windowed mode and force a screen refresh (ie. you'll see the game screen again).

Oh, I almost forgot the reason I had to post. I just had the most exciting friendly where my backup striker Burgess scored the game winner against Coventry (Division I - which I assume means they are quite a bit more prestigious then my lowly divison III team) Burgess got pushed and he kicked over the wall from 25 yards out and beat the GK! :) So far, I'm 2-0 in friendlies and enjoying the game very much.
Cool - many congratulations .... be warned though friendlies aren't really a true reflection of team strength as players from bigger teams tend not to take them terribly seriously (they're mostly used for regaining match fitness) ....

[Marc Vaughan]

No, pace doesn't change like that. For my teams this would be a killer. I try and have pacey players throughout the squad, especially in forward. I didn't always feel this way but it is one of the most important stats especially in the lower leagues which is where I almost always earn my football living.
In the lower leagues you can get a fair amount of success by concentrating on building a very physically strong team which works hard - however once in the upper reaches you'll find talent is irrepllacable.

AFAIK, injury isn't affected by where you play somebody. I've never anyone suggest it in any case.
Injury proneness isn't dependant on where someone plays - however bear in mind the following:

* Fouls by physically strong players will be more likely to cause an injury than by a weak midget (hence if you have an injury prone player being marked by a physically agressive man-mountain then panic)
* Injury proneness for players can increase if they're continually over-trained over a long period (especially when young) ...
* Injury proneness can increase for players if they're over-played once they're past their prime (as their muscles can't take the punishment as well at an advanced age).
* Players are more prone to injury when they're unfit or knackered (ie. early on in the season or late in the season when their profile indicates they're 'tired').
* Physio's can indicate if a player has a recurring injury which might require rehabilitation (ie. surgery or physiotherapy) to put right (otherwise if a player has one it will continually flare up every so often).
* Having a decent physio will help avoid injuries a little and also speed up people coming back from injuries.

Hope this helps,

Marc

[Marc Vaughan]

* Fouls by physically strong players will be more likely to cause an injury than by a weak midget (hence if you have an injury prone player being marked by a physically agressive man-mountain then panic)

Also bear in mind that some more cowardly players will chicken out of challenges against physically intimidating opposition .... some won't, if you have a player who's simply not participating in a game and always seems to be last to the ball - that might be the reason.

(as irl there are hundreds of permutations and possibilities regarding what happens in the game and why it might occur)

[Marc Vaughan]

Oh finally (and this will be my final post in this area honest) .... some players are natural 'play actors' and will tend to fall over during challenges made by opposition players in an attempt to gain freekicks ..

This can be an advantage during matches (as it might mean you end up with a free-kick in a good area or even an extra man advantage) - BUT some referee's don't appreciate acting (even when 'good' ;) ) and you might find your chap in trouble for being unsporting ....

(again this happens irl)

[Axxon]

Thanks Marc,

your words of wisdom are always treasured, at least your football words. ;)

I will particularly note your advice in regards to physical skills vs talent. I don't usually keep going once I hit the big time. I'm LLM to the core. :)

Once in a while though, I just have to test drive all the Ferraris and Porsches. When in that range, I'll make sure I take your words to heart. Nothing worse than abusing a great engine.

Of course, even admitting that I find Hull a fun game would revoke my LLM card on the SIGames board. :)

[SirFozzie]

In other words, Marc, they act like the Montreal Canadiens? Got it ;)

[Axxon]

Uh Oh, the dreaded kiss of death.

I decided after starting Yet Another New Game ( YANG ) to play Hull once again. I'm playing this game loose and easy.

I've already sold ( guy I shouldn't sell ) and bought guy I've never heard about but got intrigued with via the media.

The last guy just joined me and I wonder how he's adjusting to life in the English 3rd Division.

"( player x ) is content with conditions at the club currently."

Mayday! Mayday! Mayday!

Anybody interested in an unused but pretty talented prima donna. He'll sell for cheap. Come on, you need him.:)

[Eaglesfan27]

LOL, great post and I'll be worried if I get that warning message ;)

Thanks Marc, for the words of wisdom regarding injuries. Last night I did have two young guys get hurt (Walters and Russell - who is on my under 19 team and I was training him fairly hard I guess) I agree with your assessment that these things often happen irl, and it's great ot see these sort of things modeled in the game :)

I can't wait until work is done tonight and I can play some more.

[CraigSca]

I hope unemployment ends quickly for you, and I applaud your choice of gift :)

Thanks, Eaglesfan. In the meantime, I'll live vicariously through you :)

[klayman]

"( player x ) is content with conditions at the club currently."

I've had prima-donnas that have gone from that message to Happy to be at club, Ethustiastic about his future, etc. Winning helps a lot.

[Senator]

Having a nice time with this myself. So, there is or is not face pictures in the superpack, because I sure don't see them.

[Senator]

dola - never found the 03/04 marc tip sheet - but did find cm4.

[Axxon]

Here yah go Senator

http://dynamic2.gamespy.com/~fof/forums/showthread.php?t=24495

[Senator]

dola squared - I see it in another thread. geeze, if a guy works for a living he can get behind.

[Eaglesfan27]

I'm 99% sure that there are no pictures of players in the superpack. I still can't find the 03/04 marc tip file, but I do have CM4's. Now, I just have to decide how I will divide my time between CM 03/04 and OOTP6 over the weekend ;)

Thanks for posting the link to that other thread :)

[Axxon]

CM 03/04 is just the ticket when you're on dialup. :)

9 more minutes until ootp6 goodness.

[Marc Vaughan]

I'm 99% sure that there are no pictures of players in the superpack. I still can't find the 03/04 marc tip file, but I do have CM4's. Now, I just have to decide how I will divide my time between CM 03/04 and OOTP6 over the weekend ;)

Thanks for posting the link to that other thread :)

The 03-04 tips have been posted in the other thread on this board now ...

[Eaglesfan27]

I'm printing out the tips now, big thanks to sovereignstar for doing that :)

[SirFozzie]

I can't check the SIGames boards from work (I'll check them in a couple hours when I get home), but this might be a good first point:

http://www.cmgamer.com/Downloads_HQ/facepacks.shtml

[klayman]

Having a nice time with this myself. So, there is or is not face pictures in the superpack, because I sure don't see them.
No facepacks in the superpack. It is a seperate download.

[SirFozzie]

http://sourceforge.net/projects/cm4superpackv2/ (an earlier version of the Superpack with all the facepacks!

Warning: 120 MB

[ice4277]

I have the facepack set, if anybody wants it send me an IM and I can transfer it to ya.

[ice4277]

dola

What I meant to say is, I have the facepack-ONLY download.

[SirFozzie]

Thanks ice ;)

[ice4277]

Don't you have some baseball to go watch or something? :D

[SirFozzie]

24 more minutes.

[Eaglesfan27]

ice, I'd like to get that from you sometime if you don't mind :)

[Senator]

same here

[GrantDawg]

Me, too. (Don't you hate when people just post "me, too?").

[ice4277]

That's cool guys, just send me an IM through either AOL or Yahoo!, or PM me with your screen names for one of those services. I will be gone for probably most of the afternoon today but I will leave my IMs on so you can leave a message for me.

[ice4277]

dola

Alternatively, you could just go straight to the source:

http://www.sortitoutsi.net/index.php?page=facepacks

Just download 'Super Face Pack' and you are good to go.

Also, they have a bunch of other pretty nifty CM downloads, you may want to give them a look too.

[Eaglesfan27]

Thanks, ice! Downloading now.