MLB 09: The Show
8.3
10
79
79
Worth the time and effort
This is the third installment of the franchise, and I've picked up all 3. I have to say this one is by far the most polished (though not perfect) ones I've played, and definitely one of the most immersive baseball experiences I've had on any video game console. Let's get to one of the big gripes - that this game is hard. I won't lie to you, this game isn't exactly a pick up and play kind of game with people who don't play video games much. Don't expect to play an exhibition game with your 50 year old uncle or girlfriend who never touched a controller before. But honestly, if you're apt at games and have any inkling of baseball and the strategy involved, it shouldn't be a problem to have fun here. Some of the controls are iffy (like baserunning, if you're not used to it) and the margin of error on some things (like timing baserunning) is quite small - but it definitely helps b/c it creates a strong sense that you really have to concentrate and focus to play a good game (kind of like in real life). In that sense, I think the added challenge definitely makes the game more fun with me. As for the other elements - the game play is tight. It is great to see some random events, such as a fielder botching a play due to a sharply hit ball, affect the outcome of a game. It's better than playing a predictable game when you know a fielder will get 99% of outs, or end up being a home run derby on the plate. Things such as fatigue, pitching or hitting stats, and even consistent performance - all play a role in the outcome, and really helps make this game feel real. That and of course the great graphics and sound in the game. The crowds seem more "alive" and even seeing random beach balls hit the field or hot dog guys walking up and down the stands makes the game feel more real. I am also impressed by how all the batting stances are pretty accurate. And there's also plenty of other modes to keep you busy, such as franchise and the (still iffy) manager mode (which is kind of a snoozer for me, but some may like it). For me the best part of the game is still the road to the show mode. Nothing beats creating a guy from scratch and watching him grow (albeit slowly) and move up the ranks to the majors. I still think one of the most satisfying parts is watching your noob play his first game in the majors after toiling in the minors for a few years and playing no-name guys and struggling to meet goals and improve your stats. It's definitely for me the most fun part of the game (on top of online matches). If you're a baseball fan, and you like video games - this game is for you. For me it's one of the few reasons why I love owning a PS3 and one of the few games I look forward to each year, regardless of the system it's on. This year baseball fans have been truly rewarded and I strongly suggest you should pick up the game if you're not deterred by (sometimes daunting) challenge, and really like strategy in your sports games as well.
3/18/09
omg so awesome
i hate sports and this is an amazing game get it now!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
10/24/12
in a word BORING
ok so i got this game just to get somthing new, i made a mistake. i will admit the game is pretty good, you know graphics and all but it is extremly BORING. i get the game i play it for a month and after that i just cant play it any more its so boring almost so much that is not worth geting. if you really want to get it fine but just rent it and if for sum merical you like it then pay 10 buck for it. i just bought it and i wish i could get my money back. but like i sed every thing is pretty good exept that IT IS SO BORING!
11/12/11
Really Good Baseball Game!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This is a really awesome baseball game for any system. Buy this game.
10/18/11
gotta be smart
Let me first tell you how bad the comentary is the same people since 06 the show.. that is the only down side. this game is great if you are a baseball fan and know what you're doing. franchise mode is fun (GO REDS!!) this requires you take advantage of your challengers mistakes. great baseball game.and great rosters. i have 11 the show but i still play this one..
8/5/11
Love the GM detail
Finally, a baseball game with a 40 man roster! I've been waiting my whole life for a realistic game like this. Everything a GM deals with is in this game, for the most part. The gameplay still hasn't gotten me hooked like MVP baseball used to, but I think it's improving each year. I would definitely purchase this game for $10 more that the 2k version.
1/20/11
great for baseball luvers
has way better graphics than 2k9. most say its hard but its really not that hard once u get used 2 the controlls
1/1/11
The Best
I got this game not knowing what to expect and I gotta say The Show should be re-named The Best. It has The Best graphics. The Best game play. The Best everything! The only con I can find is the fact that it's hard to score runs. But, that's what's true to life. The Show no, no, no, The Best!
9/27/10
BEST SPORTS GAME EVER
This is the most realistic sports game i have ever seen. I am a baseball fanatic and I have experienced many varieties of games but this beats them all by far. The graphics and sounds are amazing and it feels like you are in the game. The road to the show feature just keeps getting better and I think is probably the best part of the game. Online is pretty laggy but no one really plays online so it does not bother me. Being able to update the rosters is so great for me since I like having the current rosters and before i had ps3 i had to do it manually. It was such a hassel and now its a breeze. Another feature that I think is great is the way you can see live scores of games going on at the main menu if you are signed into PSN. I just recently discovered that and it always keeps me informed. Bottom line is that if you enjoy baseball in any way possible this is an amazing game and it is not money wasted.
3/20/10
Great baseball game
Mlb09 is definatley by far the best game of the mlb series and any baseball game there is out.Dont believe me well see the other reviews.It really is that good.A couple of things they can fix is the players batting stances and make the players statstics a little bit more accurate.But whos complaining overall the game is great.Anyone who loves this video game should be very excited for Mlb09 the show.Why you ask?Simple the graphics will probably will get ten times better,Minnesota Twins get anew stadium,statistics will be updated,new players are on new teams,more features and much,much more.Everyone who loves this game should wright a coment to express there love for the game.If you have any suggestions for this game for the creators of the Mlb series.
9/29/09