Formation | Tactics FM 2014 Guide
Last update: 11 May 2016
A proper formation is the first element of a good tactic. From a Formation menu you can choose the option you want. You can choose from basic formations like 4-4-2, 3-4-3, and more "fancy" ones, for example 4-2-2-2. Each of them has pros and cons. You can see the picture of a formation on the right. If you want to make changes in a chosen formation (for example move your defence a bit higher), you can do it by clicking the position with LMB and move the "t-shirt" somewhere else, creating for example a 6-0-4 formation.
| 3-5-2 Offensive formation. Side backs are very important, they should be fast and have high value of marking. Well trained midfielders and side midfielders that are fast and good at crossing and passing are also important. |
| 4-4-2 Standard formation, not really offensive or defensive. A balance between offence and defence brilliant in its simplicity. Depending on your style of playing, the most important players will either be fast side midfielders or technically trained central midfielders. It's a good idea to experiment with this formation, play with attacking midfielder or defensive ones. It's great for your first attempts at choosing tactics because of its balance. |
| 4-6-0 Strong formation, defensive and offensive, without a classic second line. Risky playing and long passes towards attackers should be essential for this formation. Defensive midfielders are important in the team, they are the playmakers. Side midfielders should have high crossing and passing. |
| 5-3-2 A rather defensive formation, playing from counter attack, mainly for teams without good side midfielders. They should be replaced by side defenders that also take part in offensive actions on the sides. The rest should be in the center, it's good to have a good center midfielder that becomes a playmaker. |
| 5-4-1 Also a defensive formation oriented on counter attacks, however side midfielders can lead the play on the sides. To score goals in this formation, you'll need a very good attacker who can cooperate with the midfielders. |
| 4-2-2-2 Formation for teams that like to play in the center of the pitch. Defensive midfielders should support the team - both in attack and defence. You'll also need fast side defenders who can take the action to the attack line. |
| 5-3-2 This formation should be used along with offensive mentality of the team. It provides a balance between defence and attack. The most important players are side defenders who should play mainly offensive. They should have good speed and crossing. |
