Sports Interactive has announced that the release of Football Manager 25 has been delayed once again, this time until March 2025. The developer made the decision in agreement with publisher Sega to postpone the launch on all platforms.
The initial release date was set for November 26 for PC, PS5, and Xbox, with the Nintendo Switch release following on December 3. However, the game has faced multiple delays, with the latest pushing the launch to next year.
In a statement released by Sports Interactive, they explained that the decision to delay the release was made after careful consideration. The additional time is necessary to ensure that the game meets the high standards and expectations of both the developers and the players.
The developers acknowledged that the development cycle for FM25 has been challenging, with many aspects of the game progressing slower than anticipated. The team has been working tirelessly to deliver a game that represents a significant technical and visual advancement in the series.
For players who have already pre-ordered the game, Sports Interactive expressed their gratitude for the support and trust. They also mentioned that refunds are available for those who may choose to opt-out due to the delay.
One key point that was missing from the previous announcement was the mention of Advanced Access on PC/Mac. The developers confirmed that Advanced Access will be available before the new release date, with more details to follow soon. Additionally, the gameplay reveal has been rescheduled to the end of January 2025.
Despite the disappointment that this news may bring to fans eagerly awaiting the release, Sports Interactive emphasized that the delay is necessary to ensure that Football Manager 25 is a game that everyone can be proud of. The team is dedicated to creating a new era for the franchise and appreciates the patience and understanding of the players.
In a recent interview with Eurogamer, Miles Jacobson, the boss of Sports Interactive, discussed the challenges faced during the development of FM25. He acknowledged that it has been a difficult year but also highlighted the learning experiences gained throughout the process.
The delay of Football Manager 25 may be disappointing for fans, but it underscores the commitment of the developers to deliver a game that meets the high standards set by the franchise. As the release date is pushed to March 2025, players can look forward to a new era of Football Manager with advanced features and gameplay experiences.