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"Could've been better, but still an OK game"

Intro

One of the best baseball games of the year so far. Also with the power of the Xbox, it captures the realism of real life baseball in all it's dimensions. How about we run down all that's good and bad about the game.

Graphics

The graphics are about the same as last year, but there are some new fielding, throwing & base running animations which are pretty awesome and make it look more like a real life baseball game. The stadiums look great as well. With all the stadiums, there's always somewhere to play. With lots of throwback and new uniforms, there's always something to wear. Also, there are tons of new Legends from the 50's, 60's etc.. But that's not all, there is also Legends from the Negro leagues as well. But, you'd think after they had a whole year, they could've made the animations even better(and the player models too). But lets not get picky, there's always next year!

Sound

Considering it supports In-Game Dolby Digital sound, it makes playing this game feel like your sitting right at the park down by the field. One of the conflicts I have with the sound, though, is when your batting. Lets say you hit a foul ball way down the line in left, it sounds like you just tipped it to the backstop, which isn't true. If you hit a foul ball that far, it'd sound just like a Home Run. When you do make good contact, and hit one in the gap, it sounds perfect. The crack of the bat is so realistic you would swear you were sitting right there. Also there is a totally new play by play voice acting. Nothing is the same in the play by play as last year, which is a definite plus.

Gameplay

Gameplay is the main thing in this game. There are tons of new modes this year, including a ''Scenario Mode'' which lets you replay the top moments in baseball from last year, and years before, but with you controlling the outcome of the game. Also, there are many knew player cards as well as a deeper more customizable franchise mode and another new mode. It's called Pick-up Game Mode, in which players selected at the beginning of the game, and you and the computer pick a team. Then you battle it out on the turf.

Replay ability

The replay ability is ok, it would be better if the graphics and sound were up to par. Because of the long, expansive franchise mode. Also, with the roster updates this game will be able to stay updated and new.

Final Recommendation

For baseball fans I'd definitely recommend to buy this game. But for non sports fans I'd say just to rent this game to see how you like it.

Final Scores

Graphics: 6/10
Sound: 6/10
Gameplay: 7/10
Replay ability: 7/10
Final Recommendation: 6/10

Reviewer's Score: 6/10, Originally Posted: 03/02/03, Updated 07/02/03