2. Challenge Mode
Part of Classic Mode, and something that I've always felt was missing from the full-game, having been a success on the Handheld version of the series: players are charged with navigating specific challenges and scenarios, like avoiding relegation with a struggling team in half a season, or defying Alan Hansen and winning the title with kids. If you can meet those objectives, you'll be rewarded with specific awards, like the removal of player work permits or a transfer budget boost. The introduction of Challenge Mode also offers opportunity for those players without the necessary time to play for extended hours to tackle a rewarding challenge without feeling like they are neglecting their game, as SI Games head Miles Jacobson confirms was the overall intention of the Classic and Challenge Modes:
"The introduction of FMC is a major step forward in Football Manager's evolution," Sports Interactive boss Miles Jacobson said. "In recent years it's become clear that there's a large group of people who would like to play Football Manager, but simply can't devote the time required to get the most out of the game - in fact, now that they have families and other commitments, even some members of the SI team have found themselves in this position. We decided, therefore, to try to find a way to accommodate players with limited free time, without significantly diluting the experience. We believe that FMC achieves this beautifully."