FIFA Manager series founder and designer Gerald Köhler has issued an open letter announcing that the series has been halted by EA Sports. This news follows the release of FIFA Manager 14 in October.
“This is was a very tough decision, so I want to take the time to explain it,” Köhler wrote, in part. “This probably comes as a big disappointment to many of you, and it is understandable that you would ask why.”
“The football manager genre at this level of sophistication is highly specialised and primarily played in two countries (England and Germany), in which – on top of everything – one game has practically dominated the market in recent years. The niche market and general trend toward online and mobile games were also contributing factors. Moreover, FM had reached a crossroads at which a new engine and/or corresponding online technology would be the only way to give the series a boost. When all these factors were evaluated, it led us to the decision to blow the final whistle. ”
“You have our heartfelt gratitude,” Köhler added. “We hope you’ll keep playing FM as long as possible, and that the fan sites will go all out to expand and improve the game wherever they can. For all your years of support and all your passion for our game, we thank you.”
(via CVG)