Championship Manager 2010 review

A flag adorns the top right corner of the screen in the game and it constantly billows, no matter how you do. We imagine it’s powered by the wind of change, for Championship Manager 2010 is back after a two year hiatus with a steely determination to reconquer past glories.

After being given an extended period to develop the game, devs Beautiful Studios have delivered a much-improved Champ Man bursting with sparkly new features and play improvements. A set-piece editor, new team talk and tactics options, Live Season updates, scouting improvements and more are included.

Perhaps the biggest sign of change is the new 3D engine that kicks Football Manager’s efforts firmly into touch. Despite the players behaving in a chaotic manner, the individual player animations (specifically the goal celebrations) look simply superb. Behind the shiny new and accessible bits, there’s an improved, realistic database of players, coaches and teams. Unfortunately it doesn’t seem editable to tailor your game as you see fit, but it’s more authentic than in 2008.

However, despite all these positives, Champ Man just falls short of a trophy-winning run, as it doesn’t yet match the finer details of its rival. Unrealistic transfers, player prices, board criticisms and transfer-listed players are a gripe, while being unable to alter small details – such as your manager’s experience levels or which leagues are playable in a nation – grate. In time, we’re sure the kinks will be ironed out. Until then, this remains Championship material.

Oct 8, 2009