Franchise Hockey Manager 11 by OOTP Developments is now available on Windows PC and Mac OS, and it’s packed with new features designed to expand and refine the hockey management experience. Below, we dive into the major updates, with frequently asked questions that break down how these changes will impact your gameplay.
Can I play international tournaments in custom leagues now?
Yes, FHM 11 introduces international play in custom games. Now, the structure of international tournaments will adapt based on the setup of your custom leagues. This offers flexibility in shaping global tournaments to fit the unique configurations of custom leagues, enhancing the international experience.
What’s new in historical mode?
Historical mode now includes fully playable minor leagues, starting with the American Hockey League (AHL). You’ll have access to the AHL’s complete history from 1940 to the present, with all players included, allowing for a richer historical simulation with a focus on minor league hockey development and tracking.
Has the AI trading system been improved?
Significant updates have been made to the AI trading system. The AI now uses a broader range of trade models and addresses previous loopholes in trade logic. This results in more realistic trades and challenges for players managing a team. Additionally, the European transfer system AI has been adjusted similarly, which adds more realism to player movement in international leagues.
What is the 4 Nations Faceoff Tournament?
The FHM 11 game now includes the NHL’s new 4 Nations Faceoff Tournament in its modern game mode. This addition offers players a chance to manage teams in a popular international event that brings together some of the world’s top hockey talent.
How does job security work in this version?
Job security mechanics have undergone major revisions to provide a more realistic experience. In FHM 11, owners set specific goals for team managers, such as improving team performance or acquiring certain players. Failure to meet these objectives could impact your job, while meeting them can improve your standing with the owner.
Can I track my players’ development more closely now?
FHM 11 includes a development tracking feature that lets you monitor the progress of your players over time. This tool helps assess player growth, making it easier to make informed roster decisions and to develop younger players effectively.
Do coaches have tactical preferences?
Yes, in this release, coaches now have specific tactical preferences. A coach will be more effective when using tactics they are comfortable with, and they will employ these preferred tactics more frequently, providing an additional layer of strategic management.
Are there updates to young player generation and talent distribution?
FHM 11 introduces changes to the database of younger players and the overall player generation system. There’s now a smoother distribution of NHL-caliber young players, as well as adjustments to maintain a steady top-end quality among new prospects over the course of the game, aiming to prevent talent saturation.
What changes have been made to the 2D game engine?
The 2D engine now features improved play execution logic, building upon past play-calling improvements. Teams are more likely to stick with their set plays longer, and the passing mechanics have been updated to allow for more indirect passing. This provides a more strategic and lifelike in-game experience for players.
What new league reports are available?
New reports have been added, including a Hall of Fame monitor and a review of past draft sleepers and busts. These reports help players keep track of key league achievements and draft history, offering more depth in evaluating players and understanding team progress.
How has the AI’s roster management improved for offseason changes?
The AI now better handles roster management during the offseason. For example, it can anticipate roster changes due to expiring contracts or players becoming free agents after July 1, resulting in a smoother transition between seasons.
Are there any additional features?
The update also includes previews of playoff series in the news, a mid-season award candidate preview, and new design elements. Player and team rosters are updated for the 2024-25 season, along with small improvements across the game.
These updates in Franchise Hockey Manager 11 provide a well-rounded and engaging hockey management experience for players, from improved international play to detailed development tracking and tactical preferences.
To talk all about the newest release, come join the discussion on the /r/gmgames reddit!