14 DAY TRIAL // Electronic Arts and its Bright Future studio have confirmed that the FIFA Manager series is no more, as after careful consideration, both companies decided to quit making any new installments in the football management simulator.
Football is the most popular sport in the world and, as with most popular things, video game adaptations and simulators have appeared from multiple companies.
While EA owns the most popular football simulator franchise, FIFA, its football management series, FIFA Manager, hasn't exactly enjoyed the same level of popularity.
Now, the franchise has been canceled, as FIFA Manager 14 will be last installment in the series, according to Bright Future's Gerald Kohler.
The developer revealed on the official blog that, "This is was a very tough decision, so I want to take the time to explain it. This probably comes as a big disappointment to many of you, and it is understandable that you would ask why."
According to Kohler, the popularity enjoyed by rival franchise Football Manager, coupled with the niche appeal of the genre, meant that continuing the FIFA Manager series wouldn't be profitable.
"The football manager genre at this level of sophistication is highly specialized 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."
Kohler also thanked fans for their dedication but didn't say what the next project from his Bright Future team will be.
EA will continue to focus its efforts on the much more profitable FIFA series.