Where have you been?
Like any of the great football management simulations, even with just text commentary, match day is a more-ish experience and there’s always that feeling of satisfaction when the word 'GOAL!!!' flashes up on screen,knowing that you’ve done your job wellFor the most part, the game engine does appear to react to your decisions, so you won't just get away with fielding a weak team or neglecting to use tactics, however, it's certainly not perfect and occasionally the matches can be totally unpredictable.
We bought Phillip Neville from the transfer market, pitting him in the right back position, and for his first four matches he scored 10 goals - from right back?? We also got thrashed 4-0 in a friendly whilst playing with a full-strength Man Utd team against 2nd division Macclesfield! Of course, you could blame this on the unpredictable nature of football, but we’d guess it's more likely that some tweaking to the matchday engine could have fixed the issue.
Nevertheless, it certainly doesn't ruin the enjoyment of what's a fine effort from Pinnacle.
If you’re into football management sims, it’s another addictive title that you'll lose many hours to, but what makes this all the better is that you can play it on the move (half-time at the football, anyone?)! Football Director DS is, of course, the best DS football management simulation out there at the moment, but even when more do inevitably come along, it’s going to take a gargantuan effort to knock it off the top of league.
Pros
Great presentation
In-depth, yet instantly accessible
Brilliant transfer market system
Football management on the move, about time!
Cons
Match engine not perfect
A few more tactical options on match day would have been nice
Where have you been? Football Director DS is a welcome and addictive addition to the DS catalogue.
HEXUS Awards
Football Director DS (8/10)
