Football Manager 2013 revealed

Sega and Sports Interactive just announced the next instalment in the Football Manager series.

Football Manager 2013 will see the usual tweaks and updates, but beyond the normal improvements, there are some pretty interesting new modes and features on the way.

Perhaps most exciting is the new mode dubbed "FMC" by staff at Sports Interactive. This Classic mode offers aspiring Mourinhos and Wengers a way to experience the thrill of managing their own football team, but in a less time intensive manner. Seasons can, in this new mode, be played out 8-10 hours.

Sports Interactive's Miles Jacobson said: "The introduction of FMC is a major step forward in Football Manager's evolution. In recent years it's become clear that there's a large group of people who would like to play Football Manager, but simply can't devote the time required to get the most out of the game - in fact, now that they have families and other commitments, even some members of the SI team have found themselves in this position."

"We decided, therefore, to try to find a way to accommodate players with limited free time, without significantly diluting the experience. We believe that FMC achieves this beautifully.

He then moved to reassure the fans not interested in a slimmed down version of the game: "For those who still want the full, ‘hands-on' experience, FM13 offers exactly what they're looking for - a bigger, better and even more immersive version of the world's greatest football management simulation."

Another new feature is the Challenge mode. A popular feature on the iPhone/Android, it's now being integrated into PC/Mac version of the game. Players will be able to play out a series of scenarios designed to test their abilities as a coach.

There are to be unlockable features, that when activated make the game a little less demanding. Can't be arsed with tracking down work permits for international players? Or want a bit more cash in the transfer war chest? By either reaching in-game milestones or by purchasing them individually, these bonuses can be acquired.

Beyond the major announcements, there's a selection of other improvements and tweaks to tell you about. The 3D match engine has been improved and refined, backroom staff have had their roles developed (including the introduction of a Director of Football to take some of the managerial workload off your hands), improved media interaction, worldwide leaderboards, an improved UI and greater online functionality.