3D match engine
The 3D match engine and the use of these dugout options are the highlight of LMA Manager 2007 and put you directly in the shoes of the manager. It gives you more control on the outcome of matches and means that you can directly influence the way your players respond without totally relying on the tactics that you’ve practiced on the training ground, but the system isn’t totally perfect.
Goalkeepers don’t rush out to get the ball even if its right next to the penalty spot and occasionally players only respond to the action once another player is in control of the ball (if the ball is played into one of the corners of the pitch, your defenders will stand completely still and wait for an opponent to pick it up before dashing over there to tackle them.) It’s frustrating to watch but thankfully doesn’t happen too often that it ruins the game. There are also a few frame rate issues that need ironing out, but overall the 3D match engine successfully adds excitement to the match days and contrives to get the player totally involved in every aspect of a football manager’s role.
Click for larger imageCodemasters have also included a media hub called ‘Football One’. This is where commentator Barry Davies provides highlights of the game along with the day’s football news and transfers; it’s a nice cosmetic touch that manages to present data in a refreshing way.
So, it’s true that LMA Manager 2007 has far more visual impact than the likes of the Football Manager series but we also think that the gap is narrowing between the two in terms of pre-match options.
Click for larger imageThe game requires persistence, a logical mind and a willingness to learn. If you want to succeed as a manager you can’t just jump into games ‘willy nilly’, you’ll need to plan meticulously and have the instruction booklet handy. This attention to detail is admirable and results in a completely absorbing, addictive experience.