In the days past the release of the “Korean Mod” a reddit user FrancescoMuja conducted multiple season simulations using both the Chinese and Korean mods. The findings revealed distinct advantages and drawbacks for each mod.
Sakuras original Mod, aka the “Chinese mod” improved gameplay animations and fluidity, making matches smoother and more visually appealing. However, it also introduced slightly unrealistic results, increasing the total number of goals per season by approximately 10-20 per team.
Conversely, the Korean mod delivered more realistic goal statistics—an improvement over the default match engine, which was often criticized for an excessive number of goals. However, the Korean mod’s impact on visual effects was minimal, with barely noticeable changes during matches. It seemed to mostly subtly buff defending.
Investigating the Mod Parameters
To better understand the differences, FrancescoMuja analyzed the specific parameters modified by each mod. Given these findings, Francesco decided to merge the strengths of both mods into a single, balanced modification—now referred to as the “Asian Fusion” Match Engine (download here). This hybrid version retains the smoother animations of the Chinese mod while incorporating the statistical realism of the Korean mod.
The Merging Process
The merging process involved extracting the simatch.fmf file using the Resource Archiver and analysing its physical_constraints file using a HEX editor. In HEX format, each parameter is clearly readable, followed by a byte 02 separator and a 4-byte little-endian value that determines the setting. After making adjustments, the modified file was re-archived and replaced in the appropriate directory.
Results and Next Steps
Initial tests with the Asian Fusion mod produced results similar to those of the Chinese mod but with a more balanced goal distribution, effectively toning down the inflated scoring rates.
The mod is now available for testing, and feedback is encouraged. If interested, users can try it out and share their experiences to further refine its impact on the game.
Installation Guide
For those unfamiliar with modifying FM files, here’s a step-by-step guide to installing the update:
Locate Your FM24 Main Directory
For those unfamiliar with modifying FM files, here’s a step-by-step guide to installing the update:
- Locate Your FM24 Main Directory
- Typically, this is found in Football Manager 2024/data.
- Inside, you’ll see multiple files with the .fmf extension.
- Back Up Your Original File
- Before making any changes, rename or move the original simatch.fmf file to another location. This way, you can revert if needed.
- Download the New File
- Get the updated simatch.fmf file from the link above or on our match engine page.
- Replace the Old File
- Move the downloaded file into the FM24 main directory.
- Optional: Combining Mods
- If you are using other patches that modify simatch.fmf (e.g., MetzFM sound pack), you may need the Resource Archiver to merge them.
A Community-Powered FM24?
With the level of community engagement and modding, some have even suggested focusing on refining FM24 rather than waiting for FM25. That is why FMTweak exists.
If you try this update, let me know your thoughts. Have you noticed improvements? Any interesting gameplay changes? Share your experiences in the comments!