time machine full system restore confusing

[apr]

I just upgraded to tahoe, which was a mistake.

Now I'm trying to restore my system back to sequoia. I have 5 year time machine backup on a network NAS dated from 2020 to 2025.
I just started the macbook in recovery mode (cmd+r), selected time machine restore and to my surprise my only option to restore the backup dated back to 2020(!).

I don't understand this: does it mean if I start to restore operation:
- first it will wipe the ssd
- after restores catalina (my machine state in 2020)
- and finally restores all other files/apps etc. created between 2020 and 2025?

 

[BigBlur]

Starting with Big Sur, Time Machine no longer backed up or restored the OS. You need to reinstall macOS yourself, then use migration assistant to restore your files.

Restore your Mac from a backup - Apple Support

Restore files from your backup.

support.apple.com

 

[apr]

Starting with Big Sur, Time Machine no longer backed up or restored the OS. You need to reinstall macOS yourself, then use migration assistant to restore your files.

Restore your Mac from a backup - Apple Support

Restore files from your backup.

support.apple.com

Thank you, it is clear now.