Demo FM2007 Thread: Downloading and Gameplay Discussion: ((It's Out Early!!!))

[SirFozzie]

In about 2 and a half hours, or midnight British time, SI Games will release the six month demo of FM2007. Getting this thread started early,to get the discussion going.

WHOEVER gets the demo quickly, please throw a link to it one of the download services (megaupload/yousendit etcetera to try to speed up things on our side)

It feels like christmas morning...

Here's what the two demos will have for quickstarts:

Vanilla demo = one league (England)
Strawberry demo = 11 leagues (England, Scotland, Brazil, Denmark, Finland, France, Italy, Norway, Portugal, Spain & Sweden).

[cartman]

Hopefully the torrents get seeded quickly.

[SirFozzie]

They announced that not only will there be torrents, but a traditional download service as well (and no, it won't be SI Games bandwidth hosting it) :D

[FrogMan]

they used rapidshare for EHM and it seemed to go at a reasonable speed... Looking forward to this, had almost forgotten about it... shame on me...

FM

[DaddyTorgo]

HOLYYYYYY PENISSSSSSS. I'M SO HAPPY!!!!

[Celeval]

w00t

[SirFozzie]

Gentlemen, start your downloads.


(from the SI Games boards)

The PC & Mac demo's for FM2007 are now ready to go live, a little earlier than anticipated.

The demo's come in 2 different versions for each platform.

PC Vanilla - This file only includes English language, and the English league, with no kits, player photo's, sound, graphics etc.

Mac Vanilla - This file only includes English language, and the English league, with no kits, player photo's, sound, graphics etc.

PC Strawberry - This file includes playable leagues from Brazil, Denmark, England, Finland, France, Italy, Norway, Portugal, Scotland, Spain & Sweden, and Danish, English, Spanish, French, Italian, Dutch, Norweigan, Portuguese & Swedish languages, with all relevant kits, player photo's and graphics.

Mac Strawberry - This file includes playable leagues from Brazil, Denmark, England, Finland, France, Italy, Norway, Portugal, Scotland, Spain & Sweden, and Danish, English, Spanish, French, Italian, Dutch, Norweigan, Portuguese & Swedish languages, with all relevant kits, player photo's and graphics.

The vanilla downloads are 66.45MB for Mac, and just under 80MB for PC.

The strawberry downloads are 248.67MB for Mac, and 260.43MB for PC.


You can download these files now via the following methods.

PC Vanilla - go to the www.newsoftheworld.com and click on the link (AVAILABLE AT 1AM)!

PC Strawberry Download - available as a normal download via Rapidshare from http://rapidshare.de/files/34954410/fm2007_demo_strawberry.zip. Please note that if you are not registered with Rapidshare, you can still download, although there will likely be a few minute wait before the file download starts (follow the onscreen prompts and choose the "free" option).

PC Strawberry Torrent - http://81.86.52.17:6969/torrents/fm2007_demo_strawberry...34B4EFE06551E3D5DABE - please ensure that you keep the torrent open after you've downloaded it for as long as possible.

Mac Vanilla Download - http://rapidshare.de/files/34952243/fm2007_demo_vanilla.dmg. Please note that if you are not registered with Rapidshare, you can still download, although there will likely be a few minute wait before the file download starts (follow the onscreen prompts and choose the "free" option).

Mac Vanilla Torrent - http://81.86.52.17:6969/torrents/fm2007_demo_vanilla.dm...0CA390F1B891B95CC2B2 - please ensure that you keep the torrent open after you've downloaded it for as long as possible.

Mac Strawberry Download - http://rapidshare.de/files/34958722/fm2007_demo_strawberry.dmg. Please note that if you are not registered with Rapidshare, you can still download, although there will likely be a few minute wait before the file download starts (follow the onscreen prompts and choose the "free" option).

Mac Strawberry Torrent - http://81.86.52.17:6969/torrents/fm2007_demo_strawberry...4324DB1B2298468E1CFD - please ensure that you keep the torrent open after you've downloaded it for as long as possible.


I will keep this post updated as and when mirrors start coming through - we've had a lot of offers for mirrors (46 sites!) so let's see if they all come through ;o)


IF YOU DOWNLOADED THE ILLEGALLY LEAKED VERSION OF THE DEMO, PLEASE ENSURE THAT YOU DELETE IT FULLY AND INSTALL THE PROPER ONE. THE ONE YESTERDAY WILL CAUSE TECHNICAL PROBLEMS WITH THE FULL GAME UNLESS FULLY DELETED FROM YOUR SYSTEM DUE TO PROBLEMS WITH THE INSTALLER SYSTEM WITH THAT VERSION. WE WILL NOT BE OFFERING ANY TECHNICALLY SUPPORT ON THE LEAKED DEMO AS WE TOLD EVERYONE NOT TO DOWNLOAD IT.

[cartman]

Here's a good link for the PC Strawberry Torrent:

hxxp://81.86.52.17:6969/torrents/fm2007_demo_strawberry.zip.torrent?49E5974C6268D6717D4D34B4EFE06551E3D5DABE

[dervack]

Can't download at all.

[DaddyTorgo]

yeah. rapidshare is hosed

[SirFozzie]

Getting it from rapidshare.de, about 70 K/Second, an hour or two to go

[cartman]

The torrent is starting to ramp up in speed for me now. It's up to 85KB/sec right now.

[DaddyTorgo]

rapidshare strawberry is hosed i should say. at least for me, it keeps saying "server 9 is down for technical maintenence"

[DaddyTorgo]

hahah. from the SI forums

The rapidshare.de server holding the demo (server 9) has crashed due to overload of users trying to get it in one go.

Please be patient or use the torrent

[dervack]

The torrent link isn't working for me at all. Oh well. Maybe tomorrow or something

[SirFozzie]

I can just see it now..

SI: Ok.. we've uploaded the demo, hope you guys are ready for this..

RapidShare.De.. How you English say? No problem. We handle much more then you can believe. Do your worst.

SI: Ok, you asked for it.. (posts the address on the forums)

RapidShare.De: Silly brits, I mean, it's just a fussball gam..

(RapidShare.de's server suddenly combusts)

RapidShare.de VUSS IST DAS?????

SI: Tried to warn you, Jerry..

[cartman]

The torrent link isn't working for me at all. Oh well. Maybe tomorrow or something

The link I provided isn't working? I'm showing 12 seeders and 740 peers right now.

[Coder]

got the strawberry torrent down in less than 10 minutes.. long live bittorrent

oh.. and I'm seeding now..

[dervack]

The link I provided isn't working? I'm showing 12 seeders and 740 peers right now.
Nope, not yet. I'll keep trying though.

[DaddyTorgo]

it APPEARS the rapidshare strawberry link is back up.

[Qrusher14242]

damn, too bad Clearwire throttles torrents to shit :( Getting 7k/sec from the torrent. Rapidshare link is down too :(

lol just as i wrote that the link started to work

[jbmagic]

Nope, not yet. I'll keep trying though.


You know you need a torrent client.

I recommend Utorrent.

[dervack]

No shit?:rolleyes:

I'm not a moron jb, I'm using utorrent and probably knew about bit torrents before you did.

[dervack]

The link I provided isn't working? I'm showing 12 seeders and 740 peers right now.
Still trying, but it doesn't seem to want to download at all. I've got the rapidshare link working, so I guess we'll see which dl's the fastest.

It seems to have picked up some, but still pretty slow. Not sure what's going on since torrents usually go pretty quick for me.

[SirFozzie]

Got it, it's so big, it'll take a day to get up on another uploader, but I'll try..

[DaddyTorgo]

the fmdanmark site is going to be <15 minutes for me, if someone wants to wait another 10 minutes or so to hit it though.

[SirFozzie]

The quickstart seems much quicker.

[DaddyTorgo]

95% and drooling!

[SirFozzie]

Took Cambridge:

Prematch: Decided that against Gateshead, we should win (despite playing a risky 3-1-2-1-3, and told the team so.. interesting to see a prematch pep talk..

Yup, game is MUCH faster, at the highest match speed level it's nearly too fast.

[SirFozzie]

more options in the halftime team talk: Now 7 (including reminding them this is a friendly, no pressure on them today)

[SirFozzie]

Sheesh, even if it was a friendly, what a game.. in my first friendly, we come back from two goals down (in the 24th minute), and scored three goals in the 2nd half to win 3-2.

All the goals were realistic.

[hoosierdude]

Update some of the training? Any changes there

[SirFozzie]

THere is at least some changes, the senior players and the youth players have their own tabs on the team page (so you can tweak your senior team's training, but let your coaches handle the kids.)

Cambridge had 26 players under main contract (full or part time) and 20 players under youth contracts.

Also, I love this addition.. the AM tells you how the team talk effected the team.. will upload some imageshack photos of this:

[jbmagic]

Does pep talk really affect how your team performs?

[SirFozzie]

Here they are:

Halftime
http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/4493/halftimeml4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
Fulltime
http://img209.imageshack.us/img209/6832/fulltimero9.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[SirFozzie]

Does pep talk really affect how your team performs?

see the halftime one, (I'll resize it) It gave folks a morale boost +... some of the players looked confused that I told them to win it pre game (c'mon coach.. it's a FRIENDLY type stuff)

[jbmagic]

see the halftime one, (I'll resize it) It gave folks a morale boost +... some of the players looked confused that I told them to win it pre game (c'mon coach.. it's a FRIENDLY type stuff)

Thats awesome.

[SirFozzie]

I figure that I can answer questions for a while tonight if people want :)

[DaddyTorgo]

I figure that I can answer questions for a while tonight if people want :)


i just DLed. I gotta go to quiznos and get dinner and then get a coffee so i can stay up all night with this baby and then i'll answer Q's too.

[jbmagic]

Sirfozzie

What take priority over the other? Individual player strategy or team strategy?

[SirFozzie]

Team Strategy by default, but if you set individual strategy, that will override the team strategy for that player only.

[cartman]

My torrent is completed as well. But since I had to get the Texas game on PPV, I'm gonna focus on watching the game. And since I have an actual soccer game to play in the morning, I probably won't check this out until tomorrow afternoon.

[SirFozzie]

We lose 2-0 to Colchester, but really that was expected, they were a Championship side, and we're.. three levels below that :P

Nice crowd, 1353, which is realistic, while Colchesters up there, they don't have a huge travelling base, and there will be a few folks who will see the higher division guys come to play.

[SirFozzie]

I get a bid of 30K for one of my players, and I decide to stall the offer (delay, basically)

[BigDPW]

Found this link for those who are having trouble with others...

I am getting 440Kb/sec right now... and 20% done...

http://62.141.39.196/fm2007_demo_strawberry.zip
http://62.141.39.196/fm2007_demo_vanilla.zip (http://62.141.39.196/fm2007_demo_vanilla.zip)

Have at it!!! Yipee!!!

[SirFozzie]

One interesting thing, I just noticed..

in my game against MK Dons, I noticed that players are warming up on the sideline (without me telling them to), during 2nd half action :)

[SirFozzie]

Wow: Here's an updated prematch report

http://img20.imageshack.us/img20/1148/prematchak8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[bulletsponge]

OMG! WTF am i doing here



*runs out to dl the demo*

[SirFozzie]

Another wow moment. in the 86th minute of Cambridge's league game, they got given a 50/50 call JUST inside the box and got a penalty, and that turned out to be the winning goal.

Two stories came out of this one:

1st one:

Cambridge was awarded a controversial penalty in the 87th minute during Southport's 1-2 English Conference National defeat against Cambridge.

Southport striker Francis Barry revealed after the match that he felt the penalty was a harsh decision for his team-mate Paul Martin.

Southport boss Paul Cook refused to openly criticise the referee after the match, claiming that he was not prepared to risk being reprimanded by the FA."

and it had a link to the replay of the disputed incident.

Then I received a media interaction:

CONTROVERSEY IN CAMBRIDGE GAME

You have been approached by a local newspaper:

Southport's Paul Martin was outraged that your team were awarded a penalty today. Did you feel it was a penalty?

Well, after viewing the incident again and again, and the text.. yeah.. I felt that we had gotten a gift, so I cautiously said that I did feel sorry for Southport, but the referee's decision was final.

Sweet.

[RPI-Fan]

Just dabbled so far:

-This is huge for me, but in the options you can choose what level of detail you want for various worldwide and continental competitions. That's a really nice feature, to me.
-Keyboard shortcuts, Woooooooooo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[henry296]

I can't get more than 15-17 Kb/s anywhere. I've tried every mirror.

[FrogMan]

downloading from this one:
ftp://gamefiles.blueyonder.co.uk/blueyondergames/championshipmanager4/thedugout/ftr/fm2007/fm2007

and getting a steady 170kb/s

FM

[Flasch186]

i just tried to dive in, and I love it and plan on getting it but I cant tear myself away from 2006 and my Forest Green career to try it out much. Thumbs up to Marc and the guys but I'll wait until its fully ready and released.

[hoosierdude]

You know Flasch, I love the series of FM, but what really pains me every year is that my one or two beloved careers can't be upgraded to the next version.

If they could learn to upgrade the game to allow continued careers, when they can, it would really add to the sale for a lot of people...

I got a saved game with many many hours of play... MANY.. and I hate knowing I am going to lose that with the latest and greatest of FM when it is finally gold status.

[MJ4H]

I do not upgrade every year for that reason.

[Fouts]

What are the big reasons to buy this version (if you have FM2k6)?

so far I have seen;

-processing speed
-more media interaction
-more personnel interaction

Anything else? I want to buy, but is it worth it?

[Flasch186]

AI

[Katon]

What are the big reasons to buy this version (if you have FM2k6)?

so far I have seen;

-processing speed
-more media interaction
-more personnel interaction

Anything else? I want to buy, but is it worth it?

Haven't played the demo yet, but the scouting is meant to be majorly overhauled.

[FrogMan]

What are the big reasons to buy this version (if you have FM2k6)?

so far I have seen;

-processing speed
-more media interaction
-more personnel interaction

Anything else? I want to buy, but is it worth it?

SI Games did a development blog about FM2007, you can find a thread in here about it:
http://www.operationsports.com/fofc/showthread.php?t=52377

most blog postings were being crossposted to that thread...

FM

[henry296]

downloading from this one:
ftp://gamefiles.blueyonder.co.uk/blueyondergames/championshipmanager4/thedugout/ftr/fm2007/fm2007

and getting a steady 170kb/s

FM

I tried that same one. It must be either my cable connection or wireless network that is slowing it down for me. I did get the vanilla version and will try it out.

[Desnudo]

What are the big reasons to buy this version (if you have FM2k6)?

so far I have seen;

-processing speed
-more media interaction
-more personnel interaction

Anything else? I want to buy, but is it worth it?

Read the blog. In my opinion, this is groundbreaking stuff. Ridiculously ahead of any similar game and miles ahead of 2006. UI is the same, but so much better at the same time, as is the rest of the game. Just try it, it's free.

[Marc Vaughan]

Anything else? I want to buy, but is it worth it?
There are around 100 noticable changes (ie. actual 'features' like the ones you've mentioned) as well as a load of under the hook tweaks to make the gameplay and suchlike feel more realistic ...

As mentioned elsewhere the 'blogs' which ran a few weeks back flesh out a number of these new features if you want to hear more.

[Flasch186]

well, its not that I wont be upgrading because I can guarantee I will BUT I dont want to spend time with a demo where the career I start might have to be started over when I've got my '06 FG Rovers to deal with.

[BreizhManu]

What are the big reasons to buy this version (if you have FM2k6)?

so far I have seen;

-processing speed
-more media interaction
-more personnel interaction

Anything else? I want to buy, but is it worth it?

- Scouting really improved
- Feeder clubs
- Board looks more involved (e.g : limiting staff)
- Youth system and training grounds are 2 different attributes now.
- Staff more specialised

[MrBug708]

Mark - How is the MLS superdraft? Are we going to see a barrenless United States team by 2016 still?

[GoldenEagle]

Marc, can you confirm (or deny) that USL leagues made it into this version?

[Icy]

Just back from holidays and it's out, downloading now, wooot!

[illinifan999]

i keep getting a:

java.lang exception in thread "main" error

[SirFozzie]

Marc, can you confirm (or deny) that USL leagues made it into this version?

I can deny that, at least as a playable league, and FC Toronto will not be in it either

[Desnudo]

Seems very stable for the first round. Hard to judge performance since the quickstarts always cruise for me due to the small DB. I do like the way highlights and tips show while the game is processing. I find myself actually watching the screen instead of surfing the web.

[Icy]

i keep getting a:

java.lang exception in thread "main" error

Did you extract both files into the zip to a temp folder and ran the exe from there or did you just click on the .exe into the zip file? If you just open the zip file and click on the .exe you will have that error, hapened to me too.

So the fix for me was to extract both files to a temp folder and then run the .exe

[DaddyTorgo]

i keep getting a:

java.lang exception in thread "main" error

happened to me too. i just re-extracted the .zip file and that solved it.

[illinifan999]

got it to work, thanks guys! demo is fantastic.

[MizzouRah]

I guess I'll do my usual and try once more to "grasp" this game. Happens every year. :)

I coach soccer and I just don't understand why I can't understand this game.

[DaddyTorgo]

I guess I'll do my usual and try once more to "grasp" this game. Happens every year. :)

I coach soccer and I just don't understand why I can't understand this game.


try harder. it's amazingly deep and fairly intuitive once you figure out the GUI.

[DaddyTorgo]

one thing i miss in 07 so far.

Seeing the aggregate scores up top with the game score in multi-leg competitions.

[jbmagic]

try harder. it's amazingly deep and fairly intuitive once you figure out the GUI.


Is the game manual much easier for newbies to learn how to play fm 2007?

[DaddyTorgo]

Is the game manual much easier for newbies to learn how to play fm 2007?


i honestly havn't looked at the manual yet.

[MizzouRah]

try harder. it's amazingly deep and fairly intuitive once you figure out the GUI.

That's why I keep trying. :D I know I'm missing a stellar game, I just need to learn that darn GUI.

[DaddyTorgo]

That's why I keep trying. :D I know I'm missing a stellar game, I just need to learn that darn GUI.

if you ever have time to poke at it and want me to hop on AIM and walk you through whatever, I could spare some time to answer some questions there, or here.

[MizzouRah]

if you ever have time to poke at it and want me to hop on AIM and walk you through whatever, I could spare some time to answer some questions there, or here.

I pm'd EaglesFan for some help, but I just might take you up on that sometime this week if you're around.

[DaddyTorgo]

I pm'd EaglesFan for some help, but I just might take you up on that sometime this week if you're around.

surething.

i should be around at least MTW for the better part of the day, although TH/F/S look like busts (part of a wedding)

[MizzouRah]

Thanks DT! I assume I should start with the "vanilla" demo and go from there?

[DaddyTorgo]

Thanks DT! I assume I should start with the "vanilla" demo and go from there?

the vanilla just has the english league. if you want to play in italy or spain or germany (or finland, norway or any of a few others, holland, etc.) then you should pick strawberry.

[MizzouRah]

I just figured the least amount of leagues, the better. ;)

[DaddyTorgo]

I just figured the least amount of leagues, the better. ;)

might make it easier as far as setup, yeah. honestly, if i was you too, I'd play as Chelski. You may hate them IRL, but their huge amounts of cash will allow you to get the most fun out of your demo-playing, in terms of raiding other teams and signing big-name players.

[jbmagic]

One of the confusing part of the game is the financial part of the game.

And loans and transfers not clear on that too.

[MizzouRah]

might make it easier as far as setup, yeah. honestly, if i was you too, I'd play as Chelski. You may hate them IRL, but their huge amounts of cash will allow you to get the most fun out of your demo-playing, in terms of raiding other teams and signing big-name players.

I honestly don't follow soccer IRL, so I guess that would be a good place to start.. although I do like the idea of using the worst team in most text sports sims.

[illinifan999]

Has anyone noticed insane transfer fees? I'm using the strawberry version Italy quickstart and Lazio offered Everton 41.5 million for Tim Cahill who is valued at 13.5. I'm using American dollars. Also when I read scouting reports they recommend offering like 25-31 million for a guy valued at 8.

[Galaril]

There are around 100 noticable changes (ie. actual 'features' like the ones you've mentioned) as well as a load of under the hook tweaks to make the gameplay and suchlike feel more realistic ...

As mentioned elsewhere the 'blogs' which ran a few weeks back flesh out a number of these new features if you want to hear more.

Mark - How is the MLS superdraft? Are we going to see a barrenless United States team by 2016 still?

Marc, can you confirm (or deny) that USL leagues made it into this version?

I can deny that, at least as a playable league, and FC Toronto will not be in it either


So, of the 100 changes made the MLS, draft and league going all foreign players wasn't looked at. That is a shame. I guess FM 2006 will be good enough for acasual gamer with limited time and finances.

[RPI-Fan]

So, of the 100 changes made the MLS, draft and league going all foreign players wasn't looked at. That is a shame. I guess FM 2006 will be good enough for acasual gamer with limited time and finances.

That's not really fair to say.

Now, I doubt that MLS was looked at strongly, but all that's been confirmed is that USL isn't playable. It's very possible MLS's draft got fixed.

[FrogMan]

Has anyone noticed insane transfer fees? I'm using the strawberry version Italy quickstart and Lazio offered Everton 41.5 million for Tim Cahill who is valued at 13.5. I'm using American dollars. Also when I read scouting reports they recommend offering like 25-31 million for a guy valued at 8.

this was happening with FM2006 too. You gotta remember that value is always subjective. To get a player whom a team doesn't want to let go, you will have to pay the big bucks...

FM

[Galaril]

That's not really fair to say.

Now, I doubt that MLS was looked at strongly, but all that's been confirmed is that USL isn't playable. It's very possible MLS's draft got fixed.

That is true I will admit. But, I have a number of times asked questions related to MLS on the SI board ove rthe years and it seems like there is very little interest in it as league in this game by the developer. If they are improving MLS other than the old " our researcher is working hard to improve this area" I would like to hear about the improvements. This game does still sell a fair amount in the US so it would be good to have the league play more realistically or time. If that is not a objective of SI just be like CM and not have the MLS league at all. Things like not having Toronto in the league is a good example.

[Desnudo]

It may sell well in N. America, but I'll bet a lot of the purchasers have never played a game in the MLS. I know I haven't.

[GoldenEagle]

I really wish they could have got the USL leagues in, even as fictional teams.

[SirFozzie]

That is true I will admit. But, I have a number of times asked questions related to MLS on the SI board ove rthe years and it seems like there is very little interest in it as league in this game by the developer. If they are improving MLS other than the old " our researcher is working hard to improve this area" I would like to hear about the improvements. This game does still sell a fair amount in the US so it would be good to have the league play more realistically or time. If that is not a objective of SI just be like CM and not have the MLS league at all. Things like not having Toronto in the league is a good example.


That's because Toronto doesn't enter till next year, and SI's license does not cover it.

I was the Revs researcher, and I worked with the US researcher, and yes, the MLS draft was looked atg. He says it's improved, I haven't seen it, so I can't say jack shit about it. It's not really a yes/no situation

I know the USL isn't added, because they have no new leagues in this version.

I know FC Toronto isn't added, because Al (the researcher) told me.

[MizzouRah]

This has been said several times, but if FOF would have this much interaction with players, coaches, etc... and a field of little circles moving around a football field... WOW.

[GoldenEagle]

That's because Toronto doesn't enter till next year, and SI's license does not cover it.

I was the Revs researcher, and I worked with the US researcher, and yes, the MLS draft was looked atg. He says it's improved, I haven't seen it, so I can't say jack shit about it. It's not really a yes/no situation

I know the USL isn't added, because they have no new leagues in this version.

I know FC Toronto isn't added, because Al (the researcher) told me.

Just because there is no new leagues added does not mean that they are no new divisions added.

[illinifan999]

I cannot wait for this game to come out. The transfer window roundup is about the coolest news thing I've seen in a long time.

[ISiddiqui]

I'm also awaiting when the game comes out! All the changes really are incredible.

[Qrusher14242]

anyone notice that players on the match engine move slower than before? i use the same settings as in 06 and its just much slower. Also, they seem to hold the ball a lot longer before passing. Going back to 06 and its a big difference. Problem is the speed above that is way too fast.

[Bee]

I'm looking forward to downloading the demo tonight. Anyone have impressions of the scouting? I'm really curious to see how much of an improvement there is for that aspect of the game.

[PraetorianX]

anyone notice that players on the match engine move slower than before? i use the same settings as in 06 and its just much slower. Also, they seem to hold the ball a lot longer before passing. Going back to 06 and its a big difference. Problem is the speed above that is way too fast.

Yeah. I normally worked on the top speed level in FM06...unfortunately in FM07 the top speed seems a bit too fast and the #2 speed is a bit too slow for my tastes. Oh well, maybe it'll slow a bit when I'm running a bunch of leagues instead of just the quickstart. Or stay the same, doesn't bother me too much...just have to get used to it is all.

I'm looking forward to downloading the demo tonight. Anyone have impressions of the scouting? I'm really curious to see how much of an improvement there is for that aspect of the game.

Scouting is excellent, :D The scouting report cards on players are very good, I like them a lot. Good comparison with current players and telling you what makes the player good, what the player is weak at...telling you how likely they are to mix in with the team and such. Very good. I like it a lot. :)

[Bee]

That sounds great. I really hope they've also addressed the team reports. I really got tired of my assistant telling me that it's going to be impossible to avoid relegation unless we improve the team when we're 35 matches through the season and sitting in 1st place in the League. :D

[rexallllsc]

Amazing.

[DaddyTorgo]

here's a ? i can't figure out. how do you link a young player with an older player for training purposes? i see the area under "player interaction" but no amount of clicking will make it do anything.

*frustrated*

[Toddzilla]

I have never played an FM game. I do love FOF and TCY, and played OOTP 6.x a ton. I hear nothing but raves for this series, but I know next to squadoosh about soccer. Is is worth my while?

[TroyF]

I have never played an FM game. I do love FOF and TCY, and played OOTP 6.x a ton. I hear nothing but raves for this series, but I know next to squadoosh about soccer. Is is worth my while?


So long as you have an open mind and some patience, yes. It has been really easy for some to get into and really hard for others. It took me three tries. The first time I gave up out of frustrationl The I found Marc's guide and got into a it a little more. As I didn't really care for soccer, I lost interest and moved onto something else.

After hearing people rave about the game on the board, I gave it another chance. Something just "clicked" and i've been playing the game from that point on and it hasn't held a position lower than 5th in my library of games from that day on.

[Ajaxab]

It will definitely require some patience to learn the nuances of the FM world. I would say that you would need to give the game 6 months of game time and commit yourself to working through the whole six months. If you can do that, you should begin to get a handle on how things work. If you're prone give up easily out of frustration, then maybe it isn't the best series to get into. But with some patience, the game world is extremely rich.

Also, don't expect the time of the game world to fly along a la FOF, TCY and OOTP. At my fastest, it takes at least an hour of real time per month of game time.

[DaddyTorgo]

here's a ? i can't figure out. how do you link a young player with an older player for training purposes? i see the area under "player interaction" but no amount of clicking will make it do anything.

*frustrated*

nevermind, just looked and found out it's basically a "trial and error" thing

[DaddyTorgo]

blah. looks like one of my favorite things from 06 is gone, the ability to "place adverts" for open staff positions.

[hoosierdude]

blah. looks like one of my favorite things from 06 is gone, the ability to "place adverts" for open staff positions.

No, you can place adverts like before, the text is so small, it is hard to see, but the place advert is there on the left.

Click Jobs under the dropdown menu and you can click the place advert on the left side in the green.

[hoosierdude]

One of the things I liked about the 06 version is I could click thru the ads at the loading of the game, since I REALLY don't need the ads to show EVERYTIME I load the game.

Setting scouting duties doesn't seem to work. Scout I had was doing both the scouting of England, and next opponent, and I got no feedback from both.

So I hired another scout, and the team said I don't need one but didn't stop me from hiring another to handle the next opponent gig, but now no one is doing anything even if the settings look right...

So no heads up about next opponent OR England's finest and worst players being scouted either...

[DaddyTorgo]

No, you can place adverts like before, the text is so small, it is hard to see, but the place advert is there on the left.

Click Jobs under the dropdown menu and you can click the place advert on the left side in the green.

HOT. that makes finding new staff so easy.

[DaddyTorgo]

One of the things I liked about the 06 version is I could click thru the ads at the loading of the game, since I REALLY don't need the ads to show EVERYTIME I load the game.

Setting scouting duties doesn't seem to work. Scout I had was doing both the scouting of England, and next opponent, and I got no feedback from both.

So I hired another scout, and the team said I don't need one but didn't stop me from hiring another to handle the next opponent gig, but now no one is doing anything even if the settings look right...

So no heads up about next opponent OR England's finest and worst players being scouted either...

hmmm. my scouts are definately doing stuff. just make sure you're not over-working your scouts (by moving their job assignments up and down)

[DaddyTorgo]

dola

NOOOOOOOOOO my first real demo-game that i spent any time with is done.

[TazFTW]

Kuyt should not be that good.

http://img87.imageshack.us/img87/7444/holykuytcl9.th.jpg (http://img87.imageshack.us/my.php?image=holykuytcl9.jpg)

[Marc Vaughan]

One of the things I liked about the 06 version is I could click thru the ads at the loading of the game, since I REALLY don't need the ads to show EVERYTIME I load the game.
Some of these are 'contractual' - in that we have to display them as part of the licence agreement with the various leagues/whatever.

The rest is there to 'hide' the fact that the game is actually busy loading up the user interface stuff behind the scenes ...

[Marc Vaughan]

here's a ? i can't figure out. how do you link a young player with an older player for training purposes? i see the area under "player interaction" but no amount of clicking will make it do anything.

*frustrated*

You can only make such links with certain players and the 'elder' player has to be mature and of a certain reputation comparatively to his padawan ... otherwise he might turn to the dark side and we don't want to risk that again do we ? ;)

[Bee]

It will definitely require some patience to learn the nuances of the FM world. I would say that you would need to give the game 6 months of game time and commit yourself to working through the whole six months. If you can do that, you should begin to get a handle on how things work. If you're prone give up easily out of frustration, then maybe it isn't the best series to get into. But with some patience, the game world is extremely rich.

Also, don't expect the time of the game world to fly along a la FOF, TCY and OOTP. At my fastest, it takes at least an hour of real time per month of game time.


The speed thing is really important and can't be emphasized enough IMO. It's a completely different pace than FOF or OOTP or those type of games. In my latest 2006 career, I have played about 160 hours and am just at the end of my 7th season. I'm probably a little slower than most though because I like to check out the links to various international players/teams that make my news page.

[DaddyTorgo]

You can only make such links with certain players and the 'elder' player has to be mature and of a certain reputation comparatively to his padawan ... otherwise he might turn to the dark side and we don't want to risk that again do we ? ;)


it might be nice to be able to see that the links were possible though, without having to go into "player interaction" . like a column or a little grey box next to their name. otherwise we'll end up spending hours clicking to see that, or losing valuable time if we don't media-interact with the right person.

[SFL Cat]

I've never really played this game, tried a demo once many moons ago...but I'm curious...Is there a historical player database similar to the ones you can use in FOF and OOTP?

[Passacaglia]

Just downloaded and installed the demo, and took a look at the intro screen. Looks cool so far! I'll have to actually play the game later when I have time -- I think that's December or so.

[Icy]

I've never really played this game, tried a demo once many moons ago...but I'm curious...Is there a historical player database similar to the ones you can use in FOF and OOTP?

No, you can play or with current teams and rosters or with fictional player names, there are no historical rosters.

[Ragone]

I'd say for people just getting into the cm/fm series.. i'd try and find an older cm.. like say cm4, and try and work up to the newer version if possible

I remember getting into soccer via cm way back with cm99ish (whichever one had ubergod peter prospar)

[Bee]

Coolest moment for me in the demo...

I'm up 1-0 going into the last minute of the match. The opposition scores to tie it up, but the goal is disallowed (there was a huge crowd around the player so I couldn't tell if he was offsides). I go on to win, but then after the game there's a news blurb that the opposing manager thought it was a bad call, but he's not going to say anything else about it. So the next news blurb is a local reporter asking me what I thought of the controversial goal that was disallowed. I responded that I thought it was a good call. It was nice also that in the news item I could review the play. Very cool.

[FrogMan]

I'd say for people just getting into the cm/fm series.. i'd try and find an older cm.. like say cm4, and try and work up to the newer version if possible


aww dude, CM4?!? Come on, you want people to throw it all away and never touch it again? ;)

I'd say people should start with FM2005 and then work their way up. FM2005 is the first non-Eidos version from SI Games and I'd say the feel of it is pretty close to what FM2006 and 2007 are now, sans media interaction, or barely any...

FM

[Icy]

Damn, the wait is kiling me. I don't know what to do now, if to start a new game with FM06 or to play the FM07 demo as i haven't touched it since i downloaded it a few days ago.

I would play the demo to get used to the changes, but to know that i'll play only 6 months of game time is kiling my desire of doing it. I know i can continue the demo savegame once the game is released, but a patch will be issued on the release day and i prefer to start my real game after the patch and also using my own configured universe instead of a limited quickstart.


On the other hand, it's the same about 06, if i start to play it now, i'll leave it once FM07 is out in 3 weeks as i have it preordered already in gameplay so i also know that the FM06 game won't last a lot.

Umm now that i think on it maybe i should work so hard during this 3 weeks to advance it a lot so i'll have more free time once the game is released.

Life is made of hard decissions :D

[Bee]

I'm glad I picked up the demo to mess around with until the game is released. There's enough new things tucked away in there that the demo is almost like a practice run for me. I think my time with the demo will make my first career with the full version much smoother.

[Pumpy Tudors]

What are my options for purchasing this game? Obviously, there's the preorder from overseas, but what about a downloadable version? It's not going to be the same mess we had last year, is it? That made me sad. :(

[FrogMan]

I am not getting into the download crap again this year. I have preordered it from cd-wow.com. Found a couple vouchers on the net to save some bucks, finally comes to £17.99 shipping included. I know they shipped with some delay (or at least cd-wow.us did) last year, but at that price, I'll take it when it gets to me... Yeah, I'm cheap. :)

FM

[Bee]

I am not getting into the download crap again this year. I have preordered it from cd-wow.com. Found a couple vouchers on the net to save some bucks, finally comes to £17.99 shipping included. I know they shipped with some delay (or at least cd-wow.us did) last year, but at that price, I'll take it when it gets to me... Yeah, I'm cheap. :)

FM

That's like $300 Canadian isn't it?

;)

[FrogMan]

That's like $300 Canadian isn't it?

;)

Canadian dollar jokes are so 1995.... :p

Comes to $38 canadian or $33 american for those who are curious...

FM

[Bee]

I'm old so I stick with the classics. :D

I actually think I might have ordered from cd-wow last year (it was one of the cheaper places). If I remember correctly, I got my copy much faster than others because I paid for the upgraded shipping.

[FrogMan]

funny you mention that, your post about when you got the game in the old cd-wow.us thread is what convinced me it was okay to go with them.
http://www.operationsports.com/fofc/showthread.php?t=43658&page=2&highlight=cd-wow.us

I actually ordered from cd-wow.com and not .us, since cd-wow.us has it for $43.95 and it was cheaper with cd-wow.com, go figure. Also, not so sure you used the premium shipping as all their prices are "shipping included". There might be some fast ship premium I missed though...

FM

[Bee]

Might have been something else I was thinking about the premium shipping then. When you get to my age, everything kind of runs together. heh

I do remember getting the game faster than I expected.

[Bee]

Well, I just ordered from CD-wow as well. If I don't get it as quick as last year, I'm going to blame FrogMan. ;)

[FrogMan]

Well, I just ordered from CD-wow as well. If I don't get it as quick as last year, I'm going to blame FrogMan. ;)

at least you're consistent...

http://www.operationsports.com/fofc/showpost.php?p=939018&postcount=76
ditto for me. It will be interesting to see how long it takes to get here.

BTW, I plan on blaming FrogMan if it takes longer than a few days...;)

and then
http://www.operationsports.com/fofc/showpost.php?p=940281&postcount=81
The email I got from them said 5-7 days, but that could be just their "standard" email for everyone, no matter where you are.

In any case, I'm not in a rush to get the game but it's still fun to blame FrogMan. :D

:p

did you order from cd-wow.com or cd-wow.us? My understanding is that both are shipped from the UK anyway, but .us has the game at $43.95 american while the .com site has it for £20.49 from which I was able to shave £2.50 with a couple of vouchers...

FM

[Bee]

I ordered from cd-wow.com with the vouchers.

[Pumpy Tudors]

WHAT VOUCHERS WHERE SAY WHAT HUH VOUCHERS DID SOMEONE SAY VOUCHERS

[jbmagic]

I tought they were going to try to market the game over here in the US.

But I hardly ever see FM 2006 last year on the shelves in major stors like Best Buy, Circuit City, Fry's, etc.

I hope that changes for FM 2007 release.

[SirFozzie]

you won't see FM at all, since you know, it's called Worldwide Soccer Manager over here.

and considering the short shrift Game stores hold PC games in, I wouldn't hold my breath.

[FrogMan]

you won't see FM at all, since you know, it's called Worldwide Soccer Manager over here.

and considering the short shrift Game stores hold PC games in, I wouldn't hold my breath.

what he said.

FM

[jbmagic]

you won't see FM at all, since you know, it's called Worldwide Soccer Manager over here.

and considering the short shrift Game stores hold PC games in, I wouldn't hold my breath.

But I tough Marc Duffy said we will see them in the US stores when making the deal with sega.

But your right still lack of Worldwide Soccer Manager in the US stores.

[Pumpy Tudors]

I did see a copy of Worldwide Soccer Manager 2006 in a GameStop earlier this year. The game does show up in US stores, but it's hard to find.

[Bee]

I remember seeing a copy a few months ago. Don't remember the store...maybe Target?

[PraetorianX]

Man, the media is SO improved over earlier versions. Much more alive and realistic feeling, much more engrossing. God...what little social life I had will now be gone, I can feel it.


As for purchasing...Amazon has it (as Worldwide Soccer Manager) for only $29.99, which looks pretty good to me. Though they say it won't be released untill the 24th...hopefully they're just confused, if not...oh well, I'm still good. :)

[Bee]

Looks like I'm canceling the cd-wow order and placing a new one with amazon.com.

[dervack]

They are doing the NA release as an elicense download.

[chris3627]

No, you can play or with current teams and rosters or with fictional player names, there are no historical rosters.

I read on the SI Forums last week that some users collaberated and created a 1990ish replica (not exactly sure of the year but it was pre CM2) of the EPL. Tried to find a link but was unable to. Somebody on the forum there should be able to help you further if you want one.

To answer SFL, the task of creating a historical roster for one team is quite a daunting task, let alone for a league, or an indivdual country. That's why they've never really been done.

[FrogMan]

Looks like I'm canceling the cd-wow order and placing a new one with amazon.com.

can't comment on dervack's comment about the NA release being elicense only, but amazon.com doesn's ship to Canada and amazon.ca has never heard of any soccer or football manager game... idiots.

cd-wow is where my order stays for now.

FM

[Pumpy Tudors]

I'm still deciding on where to purchase from. I don't think I want Worldwide Soccer Manager this time around, just because the patches for FM always come out a bit sooner. It's between Gameplay and cd-wow right now, but maybe some other site will make its way to the forefront for me. I'll check it out over the next week or two and then place my preorder. :D

[Ragone]

aww dude, CM4?!? Come on, you want people to throw it all away and never touch it again? ;)

I'd say people should start with FM2005 and then work their way up. FM2005 is the first non-Eidos version from SI Games and I'd say the feel of it is pretty close to what FM2006 and 2007 are now, sans media interaction, or barely any...

FM

I really enjoyed the older cm games that si games worked on.. :) not to say i don't enjoy all the fm's..

[dervack]

can't comment on dervack's comment about the NA release being elicense only, but amazon.com doesn's ship to Canada and amazon.ca has never heard of any soccer or football manager game... idiots.

cd-wow is where my order stays for now.

FM
Never said it was elicense only, I'm saying they are doing a NA release with elicense.

[Icy]

I have preordered from gameplay.co.uk (http://shop.gameplay.co.uk/webstore/productpage.asp?productcode=RM02850&title=football_manager_2007_-_pc_and_mac) and they ship worldwide. I have read good comments at SI games forums from that site and that they usually ship the games like a day before the release day. They did it for FM06. The price is not bad, £24.99.

[SirFozzie]

Amazon has it for $30 (and I get next day shipping for four bucks due to their "Amazon Prime" service)

http://www.amazon.com/Sega-of-America-Inc-Worldwide/dp/B000IV24TG/ref=sr_11_1/103-2911561-0533405?ie=UTF8

[SirFozzie]

dola: selling well, too. Already in the top 200 for Computer and Video Games..

[DaddyTorgo]

that's awesome!

I'll hafta bring you something nice as a gift Fozzer.

[SirFozzie]

You're welcome, DT.. Amazon Prime is the best $99 I ever spent. (I'm the impatient sort with my stuff)

[DaddyTorgo]

long as us WWSM players don't take it in the pooper with regard to waiting extra time for patches again. that'd be unfortunate.

[Passacaglia]

Was that a problem for all WWSM players, or just the download folks? I had WWSM on CD, and don't remember ever having a problem with it.

[DaddyTorgo]

Was that a problem for all WWSM players, or just the download folks? I had WWSM on CD, and don't remember ever having a problem with it.

now that i think about it i think it was just the DL folks, b/c of Digital River.

[SunDevil]

Yep, downloaded it last year. Will not make that mistake again. Will just buy the FM version this time. Of course I am like some of the other posters, this will be my third time trying the game, I hope its the charm. I got into last year's game but it still was a challenge. This year I plan on getting the game at release and following the 60 page, 3,000 post thread first impressions and game tips.

[tucker rocky]

One interesting thing, I just noticed..

in my game against MK Dons, I noticed that players are warming up on the sideline (without me telling them to), during 2nd half action :)


I noticed this also, very nice.
Was this a feature in the '06 version?

'Course I'm still running the '05 version, :o :eek: so I'm probably light years behind.

Interface looks fresh, player search filters are also nice(click on attackers, and attackers are filtered. :cool:

A question though, I let my asst. mgr. control 1 friendly, and reserves and youth players were played. :confused:

Thought reserves had there own friendlies.

Regulars should be playing to get into match fitness.

Is this right?

[SirFozzie]

I noticed this also, very nice.
Was this a feature in the '06 version?

'Course I'm still running the '05 version, :o :eek: so I'm probably light years behind.

Interface looks fresh, player search filters are also nice(click on attackers, and attackers are filtered. :cool:

A question though, I let my asst. mgr. control 1 friendly, and reserves and youth players were played. :confused:

Thought reserves had there own friendlies.

Regulars should be playing to get into match fitness.

Is this right?


first off, yes, the players warming up is new to the 07 version :)

The 2nd part of it.. check your reserve teams, usually unless you're a big name team, your reserves won't have any preseason friendlies, so sometimes the Asst Manager will roteate in reserves/youths to give them a run out (amd to make sure your players aren't overloaded.

[Bee]

Something I noticed when playing the demo was that after going on a bad run the media criticized me for not being willing to try a different tactic than the 4-4-2. The next game I switched things up and went with a different tactic (the 4-1-3-2)...and lost...and then got criticized again for not being willing to try a different tactic than the 4-1-3-2. Looks like a bug to me (albeit a minor one) or based on some of the media here in the US perhaps a very realistic addition to the game. :D

[Passacaglia]

So what does it mean if a player warms up? That he's itching to get in, and will probably do well right off? Or that he's got a bit too much ego, and thinks he's going to go in soon? Or both?

[PraetorianX]

So what does it mean if a player warms up? That he's itching to get in, and will probably do well right off? Or that he's got a bit too much ego, and thinks he's going to go in soon? Or both?

I *THINK* that it's just fluf, at least in this version. One of the Marks could say for sure though.

Amazon has it for $30 (and I get next day shipping for four bucks due to their "Amazon Prime" service)

http://www.amazon.com/Sega-of-America-Inc-Worldwide/dp/B000IV24TG/ref=sr_11_1/103-2911561-0533405?ie=UTF8

Yes, the Amazon Prime discount is nice. I'm using next day aswell so it's only a little over $33 I believe, whereas it would have been in the mid $40's to get next day without. Nice, :cool:

And I don't seem to remember too many problems with the boxed version of WWSM last year, it was just the download version. Indeed, I believe you can use the FM patches on WWSM boxed version...at least I know some did last year.

[henry296]

During the game, how do I change overall team tactics regarding mentality. For example, if I want to go more defensive when I get load, can I do it without changing each player?

[3ric]

During the game, how do I change overall team tactics regarding mentality. For example, if I want to go more defensive when I get load, can I do it without changing each player?

You pick either quick tactics (pause the game) or detailed. Then you select "team instructions" from the drop down box labeled "instructions" close to the top right corner. Change the "mentality" slide bar accordingly.

[Pumpy Tudors]

And I don't seem to remember too many problems with the boxed version of WWSM last year, it was just the download version. Indeed, I believe you can use the FM patches on WWSM boxed version...at least I know some did last year.
I don't think you can use the FM patches on the boxed WWSM game. WWSM has its own patches which usually come out a day or two after the FM patches.

[Toddzilla]

Is there a good "quick start guide" or more to the point a "n00b walkthrough" that can help someone untterly unfamiliar with the game get started. Predictable, I loaded the game and kind of went blank - not knowing what I should really be doing. I know it is a highly immersive game and there are dozens of areas I'll need to pat attention to (training, contracts, transfers, games, staff, etc.) But a general gameplay flow is hard for get my arms around. Thanks a bunch!

[FrogMan]

Is there a good "quick start guide" or more to the point a "n00b walkthrough" that can help someone untterly unfamiliar with the game get started. Predictable, I loaded the game and kind of went blank - not knowing what I should really be doing. I know it is a highly immersive game and there are dozens of areas I'll need to pat attention to (training, contracts, transfers, games, staff, etc.) But a general gameplay flow is hard for get my arms around. Thanks a bunch!

you could probably download Marc Vaughan's hints and tips for FM2006. It should help you get a feel for a whole bunch of things happening in the game...

http://www.sigames.com/downloads.php?type=view&id=358

FM

[AlexB]

AI

booyakasha

[Senator]

Will Quiksand and Skydog be buying this version of the game?

[lighthousekeeper]

can anyone elaborate on area where this is improved over 2006? I have 2006 and am wondering if an upgrade is worth it.

[henry296]

Another question. I marked a player to reject all offers, yet I still get news items about inquiries and the Respond Button is at the bottom.

[path12]

now that i think about it i think it was just the DL folks, b/c of Digital River.

I DL'ed last year and had problems early, once those were straightened out the game ran pretty well. I do plan on staying away from the DL this year and getting FM instead of WWSM. I never was able to get the English lingo (instead of the American) to work right with WWSM and it just wasn't the same without it.

[Oilers9911]

Kuyt should not be that good.

http://img87.imageshack.us/img87/7444/holykuytcl9.th.jpg (http://img87.imageshack.us/my.php?image=holykuytcl9.jpg)

Seven goals at the HALF???? SWEET CHOCOLATE CHRIST!

[Bee]

can anyone elaborate on area where this is improved over 2006? I have 2006 and am wondering if an upgrade is worth it.


The blogs which have been posted before go into pretty good detail about some of the improvements.

[lighthousekeeper]

The blogs which have been posted before go into pretty good detail about some of the improvements.

I was looking for a non-SI-affiliated perspective.

[bhlloy]

Well, I finally broke down and pre-ordered it from Amazon... had really wanted to spend the money on EHM but it seems like that game is at least a major patch and an unfaking update away from being playable.

As this is the first time I have been over this side of the pond for an FM release, can somebody sum up the differences betweeen WWSM and FM for me? Is it exactly the same game with different support? If there are big differences I may cancel the Amazon order and go with CD-WOW to get the FM version.

[MrBug708]

I found this on the SI boards, not sure if it was posted or people knew about it, but it basically shows what the MLS will be about. Looks very very promising....

http://www.americansportsgamer.com/downloads/mlsquickguide.doc

[Marc Vaughan]

I was looking for a non-SI-affiliated perspective.

Ahhh but how do you know we don't employ undercover agents to post on boards innocently until mention of our games appears and then they ...... strike ;)

PS> Its rather good actually .... in my somewhat biased opinion :D

[Fighter of Foo]

I've seen two features/functions that don't seem to be working for me:

1) How do I get a veteran player to tutor a youngster? I've looked on the player interaction screen but no luck.

2) When I use the send to reserves feature, the players aren't returning to the first team in the specified timeframe.

Anyone have suggestions, or is this still a beta with bugs to be patched before release?

Thanks as always

[MizzouRah]

I found this on the SI boards, not sure if it was posted or people knew about it, but it basically shows what the MLS will be about. Looks very very promising....

http://www.americansportsgamer.com/downloads/mlsquickguide.doc

Now THIS is something that I kind of understand and could get me to buy FM 07. I've watched a few MLS games and by reading that document, I'm thinking it's similar to our NHL, NBA, NFL, etc..? in that it's a professional soccer league here in the US? How do they releate to the world leagues? Do players come from any of those teams or just NCAA players only?

Thanks! It just seems to me the MLS would be MUCH easier for me to understand.

[SirFozzie]

Now THIS is something that I kind of understand and could get me to buy FM 07. I've watched a few MLS games and by reading that document, I'm thinking it's similar to our NHL, NBA, NFL, etc..? in that it's a professional soccer league here in the US? How do they releate to the world leagues? Do players come from any of those teams or just NCAA players only?

Thanks! It just seems to me the MLS would be MUCH easier for me to understand.

Basically, American teams can sign any player around the world (of course, as long as they are a free agent), as long as the following happens

1) They have a roster spot open
2) If the player is not an American, as long as they have an open International Roster spot
3) They can fit the new player's salary under the cap.

Most times in Real Life MLS, it's free agents (what the game would call a free transfer) only, because of single-entity (the league owns the teams, and the ownership groups are more owner-operator), the league doesn't shell out the money.

[MizzouRah]

Basically, American teams can sign any player around the world (of course, as long as they are a free agent), as long as the following happens

1) They have a roster spot open
2) If the player is not an American, as long as they have an open International Roster spot
3) They can fit the new player's salary under the cap.

Most times in Real Life MLS, it's free agents (what the game would call a free transfer) only, because of single-entity (the league owns the teams, and the ownership groups are more owner-operator), the league doesn't shell out the money.

Interesting and thanks. Is it true the MLS setup would be easier for beginners than the normal FM setup?

Also, does the world league go on as the MLS goes on? .. meaning the MLS is a sub-world of the main world league.

[SirFozzie]

Interesting and thanks. Is it true the MLS setup would be easier for beginners than the normal FM setup?

Also, does the world league go on as the MLS goes on? .. meaning the MLS is a sub-world of the main world league.


Most Leagues (nearly all European Leagues for example) run Fall to Spring (the English Premier League, Italy's Serie A, Spain's La Liga).

MLS is different in they run spring to fall, so they have the summer months virtually to themselves.

MLS is better for newbies I think for the following reason

Static League: No promotion/relegation
Solid rules that enhance learning about scouting functions
Salary Cap prevents new folks from going out and getting their team in deep financial trouble by buying every big name player.
Name/Face Recognition

[GoldenEagle]

I found this on the SI boards, not sure if it was posted or people knew about it, but it basically shows what the MLS will be about. Looks very very promising....

http://www.americansportsgamer.com/downloads/mlsquickguide.doc

OMG. I need a Kleenex! I think this also means that USL teams will be in. It looks llike mass improvement for the American soccer scene in FM07. Where is my credit card so I can pre-order?

[Bea-Arthurs Hip]

OMG. I need a Kleenex! I think this also means that USL teams will be in. It looks llike mass improvement for the American soccer scene in FM07. Where is my credit card so I can pre-order?

The USL more than likely will be in as a "back ground" league not as a playable league. This is based on everything I have read plus confirmation from SI that no new leagues have been added.

It does appear thought that the MSL portion of the game is begining to make some strides.

Change topics, can someone from SI comment on if International management has seen any improvements for 2007? I have not seen anything on the blogs or anywhere else addressing this.

[henry296]

I've seen two features/functions that don't seem to be working for me:

1) How do I get a veteran player to tutor a youngster? I've looked on the player interaction screen but no luck.

2) When I use the send to reserves feature, the players aren't returning to the first team in the specified timeframe.

Anyone have suggestions, or is this still a beta with bugs to be patched before release?

Thanks as always

With #1, you need to go to the younger players "Player Interaction" and there should be an option to make that he could model is play after so and so, etc. After that media comment both players will respond and the older player will accept the role. You'll see "LRN" and "TUT" next to their name. I have to players that are being tutored.

Not tried #2.

[GoldenEagle]

The USL more than likely will be in as a "back ground" league not as a playable league. This is based on everything I have read plus confirmation from SI that no new leagues have been added.

It does appear thought that the MSL portion of the game is begining to make some strides.

Change topics, can someone from SI comment on if International management has seen any improvements for 2007? I have not seen anything on the blogs or anywhere else addressing this.

Has their been ways in the past to make a background league into a playable league using an editor of sorts?

I will also state this. FM in the past has classifed a league as basically a country. For example, if it added the Mexican league, SI would say Mexico would be a new league. But if it added a new division, they would not say anything.

[Toddzilla]

you could probably download Marc Vaughan's hints and tips for FM2006. It should help you get a feel for a whole bunch of things happening in the game...

http://www.sigames.com/downloads.php?type=view&id=358

FMThat's a great guide, but I need something....dumber. Not understanding some of the nuances, a demonstration would help, or a simple walkthrough of a seson.

[Bea-Arthurs Hip]

Has their been ways in the past to make a background league into a playable league using an editor of sorts?


There have been a few people who have made the USL playable via the editor. However, all this is a taking an existing league and renaming it. Then replacing the rosters and team names .. The original League rules, transfer windows, regular season and cup schedule etc still apply.

I will also state this. FM in the past has classifed a league as basically a country. For example, if it added the Mexican league, SI would say Mexico would be a new league. But if it added a new division, they would not say anything.

Ahhh, after again reading the MLS guide again,noted above, it does state:
"*Set up affiliations with USL teams (American Second and Third Division). This will help get more of your fringe players starting roles and experience"

It does not say "USL" second and Third division, it says "American"..Perhaps they are taking the EHM approach ie AAL-4,AAL-3. This would be great!

[DaddyTorgo]

the only thing that worries me about this game (and according to the si boards its being looked at) is the crazy amounts of $$ being thrown about to sign mediocre players. it shouldn't cost me 60 million dollars to sign dani alves for example, not when his value is listed as 16 million. i 'd love to see something where a player's value=a number that actually had some meaning. right now having to go 3-4 times value to get players who are valued at 8 million dollars is a bit ridiculous.

I think what might solve the problem as an easy fix would be to have managers declaring interest in a player to have more effect than it does now. at least if the new team is bigger/a favored club, etc

[MikeVick7]

That's a great guide, but I need something....dumber. Not understanding some of the nuances, a demonstration would help, or a simple walkthrough of a seson.
My position is this, just buy the game. Trust me. You will like it. I bought my first FM about 4 years ago knowing very very little about soccer and having not watched a single international soccer game other than the 94 World Cup and you will learn eventually. You will fall in LOVE with the 2d simulator. FOF, TCY & BBCF would be taken to another level if someone could institute something like this into those games.

[Fighter of Foo]

With #1, you need to go to the younger players "Player Interaction" and there should be an option to make that he could model is play after so and so, etc. After that media comment both players will respond and the older player will accept the role. You'll see "LRN" and "TUT" next to their name. I have to players that are being tutored.

Not tried #2.

Thanks. I was looking on the older player's screen.


There's a tutorial function that's available by pressing F1, but I'm not sure if it's available in the demo.

Regarding the pricing of players, the value is really just a base price. There are multipliers if the club doesn't want to sell, and reductions if a player is actively looking to leave. The better your team, the fewer the options, hence the inflated prices for top players.

[rexallllsc]

So what day is this out? Someone please say "soon"!

[cschex]

I've noticed the same thign about players sent to the reserves who are designated to come up to the first team when match fit, but i'm finding I'm still having to bring them up manually. Other than that, I haven't notcied any issues.

[Icy]

So what day is this out? Someone please say "soon"!

20th September is the official release date.

[SirFozzie]

Um.... you might want to double check that, Icy ;)

[mrsimperless]

So I'm a FM n00b. I just bought 06 and I've yet to really get into a career. However, the media interaction is what intrigued me about this game the most. Is it worth it to still try and get into 06, or is 07 so much better that I should just wait and 'get serious about FM' after that is available? Some of the descriptions of the 07 media interaction seem really sweet. I'[m afraid I'll just be pining for that while playing 06. =)

[SirFozzie]

It's two weeks. You can wait two weeks, can't you? :D

[jbmagic]

20th September is the official release date.


That date already past.

[MizzouRah]

That date already past.

You don't say?

[daedalus]

the only thing that worries me about this game (and according to the si boards its being looked at) is the crazy amounts of $$ being thrown about to sign mediocre players. it shouldn't cost me 60 million dollars to sign dani alves for example, not when his value is listed as 16 million. i 'd love to see something where a player's value=a number that actually had some meaning. right now having to go 3-4 times value to get players who are valued at 8 million dollars is a bit ridiculous.

I think what might solve the problem as an easy fix would be to have managers declaring interest in a player to have more effect than it does now. at least if the new team is bigger/a favored club, etcI respectfully disagree. Valuation is, just that, valuation. How much the player is considered to be worth. How much the team would want for the player is an entirely different story. Diarra's valuation was nowhere near how much Madrid paid to get him. Essien's valuation was nowhere near how much Chelsea paid to get him. Henry, great as he is, was valued nowhere near how much Real Madrid and Barcelona supposedly offered for him. Attempting to buy a player with multiple years left on his contract from a non-selling club (more specifically, a club that does not need to sell to operate) will obviously cost more. On the other hand, what de Jong went for was nowhere near indicative of his valuation. But with his contract nearly expiring, hey, that's the best they could get. It just is what it is.

[Eaglesfan27]

You don't say?


He's always on top of things.

[Eaglesfan27]

I respectfully disagree. Valuation is, just that, valuation. How much the player is considered to be worth. How much the team would want for the player is an entirely different story. Diarra's valuation was nowhere near how much Madrid paid to get him. Essien's valuation was nowhere near how much Chelsea paid to get him. Henry, great as he is, was valued nowhere near how much Real Madrid and Barcelona supposedly offered for him. Attempting to buy a player with multiple years left on his contract from a non-selling club (more specifically, a club that does not need to sell to operate) will obviously cost more. On the other hand, what de Jong went for was nowhere near indicative of his valuation. But with his contract nearly expiring, hey, that's the best they could get. It just is what it is.

Completely agree.

I can't wait for these next 2 weeks to pass :)

[DaddyTorgo]

Completely agree.

I can't wait for these next 2 weeks to pass :)

have you gone out and tried to buy a top-class player in 07 though? The $$ amounts wanted are INSANE. You have guys with values of 16 million dollars and their clubs won't give them up for anything less than 60 million dollars!

Given that I think the problem is magnified because of the smaller size of the DB in the quickstart, but it's almost impossible unless you're playing as Chelski to buy a player who will be anything less than a backup for a top-flight club for anything less than 30 million dollars, even if their value is 10 million dollars.

It's crazy. I suppose with Bosan's and larger DB's and more time to scout and all it won't be AS MUCH of a problem, but it just doesn't seem...right. I honestly think that if players became unsettled easier and WANTED to move more then it would work itself out, as those players would be available for value.

[Icy]

That date already past.

Lol sorry, i meant 20th October.

[Ajaxab]

have you gone out and tried to buy a top-class player in 07 though? The $$ amounts wanted are INSANE. You have guys with values of 16 million dollars and their clubs won't give them up for anything less than 60 million dollars!

I have to agree with daedalus on this one. In FM '06, if I wanted a premium player, I had to pay top dollar no matter how much the valuation was. I was playing as Barca in 2015 and desperately needed a solid DC. Arsenal had a guy I wanted, but there was no way they were going to let him go for his valuation price given the fact that they were consistently competing for both Premiership and European titles. He was valued at 12.5 million pounds and we ended up meeting Arsenal's asking price of 50 million pounds for him. To get top quality stars, you have to overpay.

Is it insane? Maybe so. Is it realistic? I would suggest it is. If another big club wants my best players, I am going to make them pay through the nose for those players or they will not be getting them.

[GoldenEagle]

Looks like a no-go on manageable USL leagues. All the teams and players are in the game, but you can not coach them. Some people at the SI forums are going to try to use the custom league editor to change it to where they are playable but I am not going to get my hopes up.

[rexallllsc]

So where should I order this? GoGamer doesn't have it up, and Amazon.co.uk won't let me order it...and I don't want WWSM.

[Anguscl]

So where should I order this? GoGamer doesn't have it up, and Amazon.co.uk won't let me order it...and I don't want WWSM.

hxxp://forum.gogamer.com/showthread.php?t=36&page=2

i asked on the gogamer forums as to when they will have it for sale, and a guy there said end of the week.

[rexallllsc]

hxxp://forum.gogamer.com/showthread.php?t=36&page=2

i asked on the gogamer forums as to when they will have it for sale, and a guy there said end of the week.

Thank you :)

[daedalus]

have you gone out and tried to buy a top-class player in 07 though? The $$ amounts wanted are INSANE. You have guys with values of 16 million dollars and their clubs won't give them up for anything less than 60 million dollars!

Given that I think the problem is magnified because of the smaller size of the DB in the quickstart, but it's almost impossible unless you're playing as Chelski to buy a player who will be anything less than a backup for a top-flight club for anything less than 30 million dollars, even if their value is 10 million dollars.

It's crazy. I suppose with Bosan's and larger DB's and more time to scout and all it won't be AS MUCH of a problem, but it just doesn't seem...right. I honestly think that if players became unsettled easier and WANTED to move more then it would work itself out, as those players would be available for value.Who exactly are you trying to buy from what club?

As Ef27 and Ajaxab said, top class player at a top (non-selling) club will cost more. They don't NEED the money. If you try to buy one at a selling club, (assuming this new feature works correctly) their chairman would force the sale if the money is right. If not, simply to operate, they would sell. Experimenting with buying Ribery (because it would make Henry happy), I was able to get him for ~11. That's entirely reasonable. On the other hand, 'Boro (hi, Chief!) turned down a bid of 9+ from overseas for Boateng. Eh.

[DaddyTorgo]

Who exactly are you trying to buy from what club?

As Ef27 and Ajaxab said, top class player at a top (non-selling) club will cost more. They don't NEED the money. If you try to buy one at a selling club, (assuming this new feature works correctly) their chairman would force the sale if the money is right. If not, simply to operate, they would sell. Experimenting with buying Ribery (because it would make Henry happy), I was able to get him for ~11. That's entirely reasonable. On the other hand, 'Boro (hi, Chief!) turned down a bid of 9+ from overseas for Boateng. Eh.

just screwin around and playing with money...trying to buy dani alves from villareal (his value is 16 million), i had to pay ~60 million to get him. That's like what...3.5-4x his value? That's crazy. At that rate even chelsea can only afford 2 players a year. and that's not even considering that that would pretty much break the world record for transfers ever (although i'm not sure of my dollars to pounds conversion, so prolly not quite).

[daedalus]

You want to buy a young player with high potential (at least according to my scouts when I was tinkering with the demo) with plenty of contract left from a club that doesn't NEED to sell too badly (they did well in the CL last year, though they are a smaller club). You are just going to spend money. Apparently, that comes out to 48 Euro/32 GBP which is darn high. On the other hand, Lyon held out until they got 26 GBP/48 USD when they player CLEARLY wanted to leave simply because, well, they didn't HAVE to sell.

[DaddyTorgo]

You want to buy a young player with high potential (at least according to my scouts when I was tinkering with the demo) with plenty of contract left from a club that doesn't NEED to sell too badly (they did well in the CL last year, though they are a smaller club). You are just going to spend money. Apparently, that comes out to 48 Euro/32 GBP which is darn high. On the other hand, Lyon held out until they got 26 GBP/48 USD when they player CLEARLY wanted to leave simply because, well, they didn't HAVE to sell.

there were plenty more examples. that was just the most striking. walter samuel or marco matterazi from inter...inter wouldn't let either of them go for anything and i stopped trying around 20. matterazi is 32 years old, they're both sweepers, inter shouldn't need BOTH Of them, they should certainly be willing to take 20 million dollars for matterazi.

[tanglewood]

Materazzi and Samuel are the starting centre-back pairing for Inter. I think they aren't going to give either up cheaply.

Remember the computer is basically thinking if they sell Materazzi, could they replace him with equal or better quality for $20m? Probably not, certainly not immediately anyway, and if you are a team competing for top trophies it isn't worth the bother to take the risk. Especially when you don't need the money anyway.

[DaddyTorgo]

Not like Inter don't have the talent to replace one or the other for 20 million though. Then again I guess with a larger DB this problem will be partially taken care of by opening up the amount of players to go after.

Jonathan de Guzman...18yo Canadian kid. Valued at 7 million dollars, Feyenoord property. Now you can't tell me Feyenoord couldn't use the money, but they're holding out for 25-30 million dollars.

Now I don't think he should come cheap, but at the same time I think there's someething out of whack where players don't request moves enough. If Real Madrid came in IRL for him and expressed interest (depending on the kid, i admit i don't know his personality), he would likely BEG Feyenoord to let him go and they'd let him leave for 15-17 mil. Not 25-30!

[daedalus]

Not like Inter don't have the talent to replace one or the other for 20 million though. Then again I guess with a larger DB this problem will be partially taken care of by opening up the amount of players to go after.I think everyone would agree that they have the talent to replace those players. But why SHOULD they? Inter could care less about making a profit on selling their players so unless you absolutely wow them or their really don't want the players, they have no need to sell. The same thing will likely happen with Juventus or Real Madrid or Chelsea or Manchester United. If this was the case, then I'm quite thrilled. I've always felt like big clubs were selling too easily and cheaply.Jonathan de Guzman...18yo Canadian kid. Valued at 7 million dollars, Feyenoord property. Now you can't tell me Feyenoord couldn't use the money, but they're holding out for 25-30 million dollars.But why shouldn't they (hold out)? At his age, I'm assuming they've got him for another few years yet. They're in no danger of losing him. If you want to chase young players who have first team experience, be prepared to pay. Anelka was worth nowhere near what Arsenal got for him, in terms of valuation OR value. But he was young and he was, for what it was worth, proven (at the time).Now I don't think he should come cheap, but at the same time I think there's someething out of whack where players don't request moves enough. If Real Madrid came in IRL for him and expressed interest (depending on the kid, i admit i don't know his personality), he would likely BEG Feyenoord to let him go and they'd let him leave for 15-17 mil. Not 25-30!I haven't had a chance to tinker with '07 enough to see whether or not this was the case (and I don't generally make comments about players in the press anyhow). But you could try that to see if that gets any reaction from him and that would give you clues into his personalities as well.

[Toddzilla]

n00b Q - how do I sign transfers? I'm a Third League team and I've offered about 50 guys that are worth $0, or $1000 with contracts all under $50/week. I get permission every time from the other club, but I have never been able to finalize a contract, no matter how much money I offer. Any tips/tricks?

[SirFozzie]

Todd: Did you offer what they want? or did they just say "We don't want to sign with you"..

[Toddzilla]

Todd: Did you offer what they want? or did they just say "We don't want to sign with you"..I'd say 90% of the players say they don't want to play for me, but are willing to negotiate - all of these eventually end in negotiations breaking off. The other 10% give specific contract demands, which I meet, but never get a confirmed acceptance.

Is there a trick to finding the players who are willing to play for you, or is it trial and error? Do I need to offer 200 players in order to find the handful who will play for me?

[SirFozzie]

Check the scouting reports, maybe?

Also, they won't instantly accept/reject, wait a couple days, and see if other teams are offering them..

[Fighter of Foo]

The lower your division, the harder it is to get quality players to come to your team. If you're league 2 or Conference for example, it's almost impossible to get anyone other than a youngster from a premiership team.

You might want to check the status on the contract screen. I've found often times in this version it's defaulted to backup. Changing that to first team or key player should help.

[3ric]

ToddZ:
Do you have your scout filtering your searches to only realistic signings?

[illinifan999]

hxxp://forum.gogamer.com/showthread.php?t=36&page=2

i asked on the gogamer forums as to when they will have it for sale, and a guy there said end of the week.

hxxp://www.gogamer.com/Football-Manager-2007-Front-Page_stcVVproductId6419077VVcatId444710VVviewprod.htm

Says the release date is oct31 and $50.

[rexallllsc]

hxxp://www.gogamer.com/Football-Manager-2007-Front-Page_stcVVproductId6419077VVcatId444710VVviewprod.htm

Says the release date is oct31 and $50.

Where can I Get this quicker and cheaper?

[SirFozzie]

Amazon. $30, October 24th (according to their site)

[flere-imsaho]

In FM06, you used to be able, from the Player Profile screen, to release a comment at any time about a player (good or bad). I no longer seem to be able to do that. Has it moved?

[DaddyTorgo]

In FM06, you used to be able, from the Player Profile screen, to release a comment at any time about a player (good or bad). I no longer seem to be able to do that. Has it moved?

yep. to "player interaction" submenu (on the left bottom side) on their profile

[flere-imsaho]

Thanks.

[rexallllsc]

Amazon. $30, October 24th (according to their site)

Maybe I'm missing something, but I only see Worldwide Soccer Manager 2007

[SirFozzie]

which is the same thing (you can even get an English English language pack for it :)

[dbd1963]

It isn't the same thing since mods and skins don't work for it. If that's important to you, then don't buy WWSM.

[OldSchool]

Just placed my order for FM2007. :cool:

Time to wrap up the 2006 career I guess.

[Bee]

It isn't the same thing since mods and skins don't work for it. If that's important to you, then don't buy WWSM.

I didn't know that. I remember seeing someone say the skins didn't work with the download version, but I had just assumed it worked with the CD version last year.

[Simms]

I bought the download version of WWSM last year and used a ton a different mods and skins without any problem whatsover.

[dbd1963]

I bought the download version of WWSM last year and used a ton a different mods and skins without any problem whatsover.

I had the download version also, but didn't go for any mods. I keep reading on the SI forum that there were problems but maybe they were down to other factors. Anyway, people are complaining that it was an issue.

[Marc Vaughan]

Skins should definitely work with WWSM (exactly the same codebase) as will additional pictures etc., a very few unofficial editors have problems with it - normally these are related to them looking for something 'FM' related when they start up and can be rectified by renaming a folder/exe/whatever from WWSM to the FM equivalent (I can't say exactly what simply because 2007 isn't out yet and I've no idea what unofficial editors will appear for it).

[Pumpy Tudors]

Just out of curiosity, will there be a downloadable version of WWSM this year, and will it be done through the same provider?

[FrogMan]

I had the download version also, but didn't go for any mods. I keep reading on the SI forum that there were problems but maybe they were down to other factors. Anyway, people are complaining that it was an issue.

I have WSM2006 and I have added mods like crazy. Skins, logos, jerseys, for both clubs, competitions, or even national teams, and they have always worked without one tiny glitch.

FM

[dacman]

I have WSM2006 and I have added mods like crazy. Skins, logos, jerseys, for both clubs, competitions, or even national teams, and they have always worked without one tiny glitch.

FM

Me, three.

[Galaril]

So the MSL soundds like things are much improved. My last question is related to International club management. I remember there was a limit to the number of the friendlies an international side can set up.

[SirFozzie]

Just out of curiosity, will there be a downloadable version of WWSM this year, and will it be done through the same provider?


From what everyone is sayingg, yes, there will be a downloadable version, but it's NOT the previous provider (Digital River did not work out for them, obviously), I think it's Elicense which is a known good guy.

[rexallllsc]

So what exactly are the differences between WWSM and FM?

[SirFozzie]

1) Name
2) Default Language (American English vs English English)

That's all.