Official 2004 Baseball Game Thread

[mtaystl03]

There have been a few of them scattered but let's start discussing the best out of all the game. The positives, the negatives, everything.

OOTP6?
World Series?
All-Star?
MVP?

What is the best new game? What are you going to get?

I'm leaning towards MVP, but should I be?

[Logan]

Also leaning towards MVP.

As a Met fan, the ability to develop a guy like Scott Kazmir by actually PLAYING with him should be awesome. I won't have to just go by stats to see if a guy is ready for the big show--I have the ability to go by his "stuff."

[FBPro]

I'll probably check MVP out but I'm not sold that they can deliver on all they claim(not that any games do). Probably OOTP for me. Don't forget Total Pro Baseball.

[Balldog]

ESPN for me, more than likely.

Was the other thread the unofficial 2004 baseball game thread?

[FBPro]

:rolleyes: I guess.....

[sooner333]

OOTP 6 and either ESPN or MVP. I'm leaning towards MVP because i enjoyed their pitcher/batter interface. It used the high heat point and swing, rather than the cursor, which I hate. ESPN's only alternative to the cursor was timing, which wasn't that fun, because you didn't have to move the joystick to the ball. MVP also seemed like a more fun game to play against friends.

[Huckleberry]

Man. I love the cursor batting style. That is what made Sega World Series Baseball '95 the greatest baseball non-simulation game ever.

[k0ruptr]

espn. so far all the espn games have been awesome.

espn football, basketball, hockey, and college hoops so baseball is gonna be the shit.

sega and espn teaming up was an awesome idea. I love visual concepts.

[cincyreds]

OOTP6 for sure for me and that will probably be it, unless it has a ton of bugs which I trust in Markus and the beta test team that this will be the best OOTP game yet.

[Scholes]

Diamond Mind Baseball. Price tag is the only problem.

[MizzouRah]

Why are you playa hate'n on my BB Games thread for 2004? :)

OOTP6 for my PC and MVP has already been pre-ordered for Xbox. I can't wait, two weeks from today! Oh how I will loathe playing the Cubbis and Astros. :(


Todd

[Calis]

I'd say ESPN for sure, but after hearing from some folks here that All-Star Baseball has my one pitch manage mode I'm finding that one very hard to pass up as that's the main thing I enjoy doing.

So I'll probably await the first go round of reviews and see what is said on all of them.

[FBPro]

Diamond Mind Baseball. Price tag is the only problem.

No career mode = ugh........but whatever floats your boat.

Played it for years and can be fairly accurate just seen some really screwy moves by computer manager, IMO it's not the "perfect game" that many claim it is.

[MizzouRah]

No career mode = ugh........but whatever floats your boat.

Played it for years and can be fairly accurate just seen some really screwy moves by computer manager, IMO it's not the "perfect game" that many claim it is.
I bought it years ago, it's about as accurate as you can get as a replay sim, but I quickly grew tired of it and found ootp2. It's definitly overpriced, imo.


Todd

[mtaystl03]

MizzouRah - Sorry didn't mean to hate. Just wanted to get this going again. How much is MVP for XBox pre-ordered?

[FBPro]

I bought it years ago, it's about as accurate as you can get as a replay sim, but I quickly grew tired of it and found ootp2. It's definitly overpriced, imo.


Todd


Sure as far as one season of stats go it isn't bad, but it is just isn't that great as some make it to be and is for sure OVERPRICED.

:)

[tucker342]

I'm stuck between MVP and ESPN. I'm leaning towards ESPN though:)

We'll see

[Scholes]

For Diamond Mind, I really like the fact that it's a pitch-by pitch sim, as well as all of the statistical thought that goes into it. It seems to capture the game of baseball better than OOTP. I still play OOTP, but mostly with fictional players, because I like the career aspect of play.

One of the best baseball experiences I've done is join a Diamond Mind League, which is just like a fantasy league only using the game to simulate the results. It makes you pay close attention to the MLB and draft/trade accordingly. I like it better than fantasy football even, because over a 162 game season, you feel like you earn what you get, instead of getting lucky for a couple weeks.

Oh well, I still miss BBPro 98.

[SackAttack]

I'm skipping OOTP this year. Definitely getting ESPN Major League Baseball, and I'm tryin' hard to come up with a way to snag MVP Baseball 2004 as well.

The rest of the games, eh, might rent 'em, probably won't buy.

[FBPro]

I have played in a number of DMB leagues and even continue in one now and "for me" knowing roughly how a player will perfrom just isn't that exciting. Glad you enjoy it though.

[mtaystl03]

Whats the release date on ESPN? Where can I find a good solid review or preview or whatever and some screens? Thanks.

[Blade]

I am leaning towards MVP because I prefer gaming on my PC to my PS2. Might wait for reviews first, though.

[Comey]

I'm skipping OOTP this year. Definitely getting ESPN Major League Baseball, and I'm tryin' hard to come up with a way to snag MVP Baseball 2004 as well.

The rest of the games, eh, might rent 'em, probably won't buy.
Skipping OOTP? Why, if I may ask? The entire engine is being re-coded...a whole new game is being built. This isn't the year to skip it, in my opinion.

[Cringer]

Baseball so soon? Isn't the Arena Football League just getting going? :D

[FBPro]

Isn't the Arena Football League just getting going? :D


I heard that..............

[SackAttack]

Skipping OOTP? Why, if I may ask? The entire engine is being re-coded...a whole new game is being built. This isn't the year to skip it, in my opinion.

Indirectly, that's exactly why. The engine is being recoded, but I'm not confident that it's going to be perfect the first time around. The current engine frustrates me, and from what I understand, some of what frustrates me about the current engine hasn't been addressed, so I'm going to sit back for a year and see what the general consensus is.

That, and I suspect I'll be spending all my baseball time playing ESPN MLB and maybe even MVP 2004. :D

[CraigSca]

Sack,

What specifically frustrates you about the OOTP engine? I'd like to hear more...

-Craig

[SackAttack]

Craig,

Most of my gripes with the current OOTP engine have been well-documented by other sources, and they center around various statistical improbabilities. Things like having a guy hit .350 or .360 with 100 walks and 150 strikeouts (and yeah, I had a player like that on one of my teams). I just don't get the sense, either, that there's an accurate model of player development. Yeah, players more or less develop until they're 27ish, but they develop a little too slowly to really be effective major league contributors until they're pushing 30, and then they flame out when they hit 35. It kinda precludes anybody from really developing into a superstar or putting up all-time great numbers when they've only got five to seven years to do it.

I could go on, but I'd just be beating dead horses further. Like I said, I'm gonna sit it out this year. I may give Shaun Sullivan's sim a try - I haven't decided for certain yet - and I'll see what the consensus is on this OOTP before I make my decision on OOTP7.

[CraigSca]

Craig,

Most of my gripes with the current OOTP engine have been well-documented by other sources, and they center around various statistical improbabilities. Things like having a guy hit .350 or .360 with 100 walks and 150 strikeouts (and yeah, I had a player like that on one of my teams).


Yep, these used to be my same gripes as well. I hate to preface every post with this, but I feel I have to - 1) I came in late in the game in V6 dev and 2) this is Markus' game - however I know Markus mentioned making some changes regarding the issues you mention. I'm going to be clarifying a number of things with him in the next few days and these will be some of them. I'll get back to you on this.

-Craig

[tucker342]

Whats the release date on ESPN? Where can I find a good solid review or preview or whatever and some screens? Thanks.

http://www.gamespot.com/xbox/sports/espnmajorleaguebaseball/preview_6089795.html

I think the release date is March 27 or something...

[SackAttack]

Yep, these used to be my same gripes as well. I hate to preface every post with this, but I feel I have to - 1) I came in late in the game in V6 dev and 2) this is Markus' game - however I know Markus mentioned making some changes regarding the issues you mention. I'm going to be clarifying a number of things with him in the next few days and these will be some of them. I'll get back to you on this.

-Craig

I appreciate it, but it's not going to change my mind. I'm still going to sit back and wait to see what sort of stuff pops up after it gets put through heavy use by the OOTP community.

tucker - March 23rd.

[Calis]

So it seems like most people here didn't care for the All-Star series, I'm just curious why exactly?

As I've stated before, I'm mostly into the managing aspect, but I want a somewhat realistic game. Is that the issues with it? Or is it just generally not a "fun" game mechanics-wise?

[SackAttack]

Calis,

Nail on the head. The career mode in All-Star is insanely deep, which is very cool. It's also much harder to hit, since the pitches have a greater sense of speed than the other games on the market...but that's partly also why it's not as much fun. Getting 3-hit may be realistic in terms of what we'd be capable of if we were really in the major leagues, but people don't buy baseball games to get shown how difficult it is to play a sport. They buy them so they can put themselves in the shoes of their favorite players.

[JimboJ]

Which new console games have a manage only mode? I know someone mentioned All Star Baseball. Any others?

[mtaystl03]

I heard MVP has all kinds of new options including being able to jump into a game that you are simming and play the rest of it and vice versa. I love OOTP and I want to get it but I also love playing the games. I would prolly get it on my PC, while I like the XBox I like playing on my computer.

[MizzouRah]

Which new console games have a manage only mode? I know someone mentioned All Star Baseball. Any others?

ootp6


:)


Todd

[MizzouRah]

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD>

<CENTER>Some more tidbits about MVP 2004</CENTER><CENTER> </CENTER><CENTER>WHAT'S NEW IN 2004
Part III -- Odds And Ends</CENTER></SPAN>As you've seen, there are tons of new features in MVP Baseball 2004. Herein, we cover some of the random factoids about the game that should get you even more excited to play this year's ultimate diamond experience.



</TD></TR><TR><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=width= align=right border=0 225??><TBODY><TR><TD width=width= 225??>http://images.ea.com/sports/games/2004/mvp/editorial/mvp_whatsnew01_225x169.jpg</TD></TR><TR><TD width=width= 225??></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Editable players allow you to change everything about you want for any given player, including their positions. This includes the AAA/AA minor league teams, which are fully editable. There are also secondary positions for every player.

New Manager Mode is included both as a separate mode unto itself AND incorporated it into Dynasty Mode. Players can manage each at-bat and perform substitutions, hit and runs, steals, and more while the game unfolds. This is also available for ALL minor league teams as well. Players have the ability to sim a few innings, intervene and jump right into the game and play a few innings, jump back out and manage a few innings. It’s a great way to get through even more games in Dynasty Mode while keeping a macro-level of control over teams, their strategies and the results.

An infinite number of hit types include pop-ups behind the plate, nubbers, Texas Leaguers, fouls straight back, and tons more.

New Bunting results mean that the pitcher won’t always get you out (unless you bunt it right back to him), but you should watch out for the charging 1st and 3rd basemen.

More realistic outcomes have been added, including dropped third strikes, check swings (with contact, varying degrees and appeals), wild pitches, passed balls, and lots more -- all of the little things that add up to a great playing game of baseball.

Signature home run celebrations are tied into our scripted animations that take place after the home run has left the park. This is so that the gameplay camera can follow the ball out of the park -- especially for balls that barely clear the fence -- so that fielders can track the ball and time their jump at the wall in attempt to make the catch. Once the ball has cleared the fence, certain stars will begin their unique celebrations.

There are over 125 signature batting and pitching styles for specific players in the game.

An updated stadium crowd shows most of the entire lower bowl in all stadiums in 3D (and animated), and the colors and attire reflect that of the home team.

Dynasty Mode can last up to 120 years. Some cool stats on Dynasty Mode:
If you played 10 games a year (for MLB, AAA and AA – very, very conservative), it would take 5 hours
Managing your rosters, spending a bit of time in the off-season and playing at least one Spring Training game would take 20 hours
Total for 1 year of Dynasty mode = 25 hours
25 hours X 120 years of Dynasty = 3000 hours for 120 years
3000 hours / 24 hours in a day = 125 days to get through Dynasty mode
That’s over 4 months, without eating, sleeping, or nerding around!

New dynamic trade system allows trades to increase as you get closer to the trade deadline. Of course, you always have the option to turn the deadline off if you want to put a different spin on your Dynasty. Players also have the ability to turn CPU trades OFF and this, in conjunction with turning Fair Trades ON, allows you to control every trade in your Dynasty. (I love this feature)

The entire trade AI has been overhauled and made much more realistic for MVP Baseball 2004. Gamers can trade minor league players and major league players in the same deal and perform uneven trades with the other teams around the league. Age, salary, and contract status are all taken into account, as well as ability.

Team chemistry is an important part of any Dynasty. Managing a baseball team is more than simply substituting players and setting line-ups -- The best managers are the ones that can deal with the varying personalities that exist in a clubhouse and get the most out of that team. Team Chemistry in MVP Baseball 2004 is essentially a sum of your players’ happiness/morale levels. There are different personality types in our game – some guys are more team-oriented than other guys, some guys focus on their individual stats, and so forth. By managing these differing player happiness levels, you will arrive at your team’s chemistry.

There are different levels of team chemistry for each team in your organization, so you can’t simply ignore your minor league teams. There are a multitude of choices and options at your fingertips that you have as a Manager to impact player morale and as a result, affect your overall Team Chemistry. Player Progression system has been revamped such that players improve and decline over time. Several attributes will be affected and age plays a role in players' performances. Additionally, the vast majority of minor leaguers will need several years of seasoning before they’re ready for the bigs. Comprehensive in-game awards include AL/NL MVP, AL/NL Cy Young, AL/NL Rookie of the Year, AL/NL Rolaids Relief Man of the Year, AL/NL Rawlings Gold Gloves, AL/NL Louisville Silver Sluggers, All-Star Game MVP, World Series MVP.


</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[SackAttack]

Dammit, stop making drool when I'm broke!

Thank goodness ESPN comes out 3 weeks later so I can buy both if I have to. ¬_¬

[FBPro]

Hoping that it will actually "do" the things that it claims. :)

[tucker342]

I wish I actually had money to buy one within the next couple months.....

And how minor league stadiums are they going to have in MVP?

[SackAttack]

Hoping that it will actually "do" the things that it claims. :)

This is true. If it doesn't, Redwood City will burn.

[kingnebwsu]

I can get by most of the problems in OOTP except for one thing...awful unrealistic postseason results. I mean, more often than not I'll see some crappy team with less than 90 wins take home the championship. It's ridiculous. I don't wanna hear "it's like real life" either. Just last night in some seasons I let the AI play out, the 85-77 Expos won the Series. To win the title, they beat a 105-win team in the opening round, a 95-win team in the NLCS and only a 90-win team in the championship (as two other 100+win teams had already been knocked out before that. The Expos had the worst record in the playoffs by EIGHT games. I looked at their roster, it was nothing spectacular. They were lowly rated in most offensive/pitching categories.

The thing that irks me most is, when I feel like I should win a championship, then most of the time I *SHOULD* win it. Period. But the percentage of time I win it when I think/know I have the best team is maybe 25-33%. I'm at the point where I'll re-sim to get the desired result, which I hate doing. But it's like, if I'm #1 in runs scored AND runs allowed, have no injuries, go the whole season without losing 3 games in a row, finish with 100-115 wins, AND have the best record in baseball...then I should be the champion more often than not. PERIOD!!! I can't tell you how often I'll be the best team and will get swept out of the opening round of the playoffs. It's like, I haven't lost 3 games in a row all year, why would I in the opening round of the playoffs??? It's not my starting pitching, because in the cases I'm talking about I always have at least 3 excellent SP's, and usually 4-5. It's not my bullpen, because nobody there ever has an ERA over 4. It's not my offense because, as I said, they're the best in baseball (or in some cases, maybe 3rd/4th). It's not my defense either. I don't know what the problem with the engine is, but I do know that my complaint with the postseason must be fixed in version 6, or it will be the last OOTP game I buy. Not trying to sound harsh, it's just my biggest complaint with the game.

Edit: I've played over 100 fictional years with the different versions of OOTP, making it the most played text-sim ever for me. I just need to feel confident that the most deserving team...or at least one of the five most deserving teams...wins the championship on a consistent basis. Not seeing that happen year after year bugs me like craaaaazy!!! ;)

Didn't mean to steal the thread here, just wanted to comment on my beef with OOTP (I've purchased versions 3-5).

I hope ESPN is solid, because I'd like to give that one another chance. MVP&ASB aren't in the running for me, even with their improvements. Hopefully all games are fantastic though!!! :)

[GoSeahawks]

Electronic Gaming Monthly gave MVP 2004 an 83.3%

[MizzouRah]

I think there are 6 stadiums for AA and AAA, which isn't much, but with 30+ MLB parks, I guess they couldn't expand as much... and they are fake ones I think.

GoSeahawks,

What did EGM say about MVP? and what did it give ESPN? I usually go by IGN's review over any other, but I'm wondering why they gave it an 83?


Todd

[FBPro]

kingnebwsu,

You said you don't wanna hear it BUT it's true....the BEST team doesn't always win and it seems like nowdays rarely wins. Many, many times IRL "my team" has had one of the 2 best if not the best record in baseball and they have only won the WS one time. They REALLY need to correct that BUG in major league baseball.

No flames needed, just food for thought.

[kingnebwsu]

kingnebwsu,

You said you don't wanna hear it BUT it's true....the BEST team doesn't always win and it seems like nowdays rarely wins. Many, many times IRL "my team" has had one of the 2 best if not the best record in baseball and they have only won the WS one time. They REALLY need to correct that BUG in major league baseball.

No flames needed, just food for thought.

I guess it's not so much that I don't win the championship in every year when I think I'm the best team...it's how I lose in the playoffs. I can't tell you how many times my "best" team doesn't even make it out of the first round. And even more disturbing is getting swept out of the first round. That's happened to me more times than I care to remember. Can you imagine a team winning over 100 games year after year, only to get swept out of round one of the playoffs? I don't want to hear any real life examples either...because for all the wild-card champions and Atlanta Braves' one title in the last 10+ years, there are many teams who can at least win the pennant when they're supposed to.

The thing is, I never get as mad with any other text-sim as I have with OOTP. I never have these kind of "problems" with FOF&TCY. Usually when I think I have the best team in FOF, I win. In TCY, My SCE team consistently wins ten games and is always in the running for the title. I know they're different games&different sports, but it goes a long way toward my enjoyment of the game.

(Shrug) In OOTP, my current dynasty is taking over the worst team and using them til I win a title. I'm on my 8th team in the year 2039. It's kind of cool after my team wins a title, and I'm struggling with a new one, to look back and see my old team win 100 games. I think in my 37+ seasons, I've only seen one of my old teams (which I always leave in excellent shape) win the title once after I left. I'm not just talking about the year after either, I'm talking about up to 5 years after I leave them (aka when the core of "my" team is intact). I'm like "ahhh, my old Reds team won 108 games, maybe I can play them in the Series?" Then they don't even make it out of round one.

Now I'm starting to repeat repeat myself. I do feel like I make some valid points in my complaints with the postseason results. We'll see what changes (if any) occur with the postseason in OOTP 6. I hope it's much improved.

[CraigSca]

King,

Just a question for you - do you think there's something inherent in OOTP that would cause your "best" team to lose in the postseason? What would you specifically like changed?

I remember reading this a LONG time ago, but the odds of a "significantly better" team defeating a "bad" team only becomes apparent when series lengths are 7 games or more. Now, when you change the disparity to something miniscule (say, a .550 team vs. a .620 team), the chances are much closer to 50-50. The fact is, anything can happen in baseball's short series - the differences in team strengths and weaknesses only become apparent after a great many games.

I think this study was in an old Baseball Abstract - either '84 or '85. I'll have to see if I can dig it up.

Seriously, what would you have OOTP do to increase the chances of the "better" team winning without programming a bias outside of the normal game parameters?

Thanks,

Craig

[mtaystl03]

Anybody know if MVP is good on the PC? What is better? That or XBox? For purposes of downloading enhancements to stadiums and stuff like that?

[SackAttack]

It doesn't ship 'til the 9th.

[MizzouRah]

PC is probably better if you have the system and video card to run it... not to mention the mods you'll be able to get (ala High Heat). Games like that I just like to load up and play, especially with friends and the like, not to mention the video card I want is $199 vs $50 for the xbox. :)


Todd

[Cuckoo]

I don't have a link for this, but the guy at EB told me that they've all been pushed back to third week of March because of late trades and signings. :(

[FBPro]

FYI, chances are if you go or talk to 5 different EB locations you'll get atleast 3 different answers and more than likely they don't really know when it will be in with any certainty "until" they get the call that the shipment is on the way.

Also, they won't change the release date due to trades and signings I promise you that.

[SackAttack]

I don't have a link for this, but the guy at EB told me that they've all been pushed back to third week of March because of late trades and signings. :(

EA is pleased to announce that MVP Baseball 2004 has officially gone gold for the PlayStation 2, Xbox, Nintendo GameCube and PC. The game is set to ship nationwide to retailers under the EA SPORTS brand on Tuesday, March 9.



MVP Baseball 2004 is packed with new gameplay improvements and added depth, creating the most authentic simulation of America’s pastime. The all-new EA SPORTS Pure Swing System and Big Play Control provide complete user control and realism at the plate, in the field, and on the base paths. Add in several new modes, an official Minor League Baseball license, a revamped EA SPORTS Dynasty Mode, and online play for the first time ever on the PS2 (Network Adaptor for the PlayStation 2 console and broadband connection required), and MVP Baseball 2004 is poised to be a grand slam.



MVP Baseball 2004 was developed by EA Canada and is rated “E” (Everyone) by the ESRB. The game’s official website is www.mvpbaseball2004.com.

This is taken directly from the press release sent to me by EA, and is dated February 26th. The A-Rod trade happened before that, so I'd imagine it'd have to be included.

The other games ship later, but the later date was always the case with those games.

[MizzouRah]

Gamestop told me it ships on the 9th and they'll have it for me to pick up on the 10th.

I've heard the A-Rod trade and Maddux to the Cubs did NOT make it, although nobody can confirm this. Either way, I have an Action Replay, so when GeForce gets the TotalMinors rosters done for the xbox, I'll download them and start up a career. He will have the rosters current as of opening day, along with all the top prospects in AA and AAA. By the time he gets them done, I should be confident on the All-Star level.


Todd

[Cuckoo]

That's why I said I didn't have a link for it because I had checked and everything still said the original dates. This guy was a manager at EB (not that that means anything), but he told me that their computer had been updated to show the later release dates on both MVP and All-Star. I don't know if it's true, but I hope it's not. Just letting you guys know what I was told.

[FBPro]

I typically don't put much stock in what the in store guys say, last year when Madden was about to come out I had some tell me it had even been cancelled for PC and wierd stuff like that.

[SackAttack]

Shrug. Whatever. I'm tellin' you that EA PR told me, well after the trade, that the game had gone gold and was set to ship March 9th. Why would that change all of a sudden, except maybe for the Xbox version where they can't update the rosters after the ship date?

[Cuckoo]

I don't doubt you Sack, and I figure this guy probably didn't have any idea what's going on. I think it'll probably ship on the 9th. Even EB's website still says that. Although he's probably a moron, I just thought I'd let people know on the off, off chance that he's not.

[Logan]

The guys from Operation Sports say that the roster cutoff is 1/15.

[MizzouRah]

The old famous manager of 'insert game store here' line. :)

There's no doubt in my mind it will be out next week (MVP). EA could care less if they get the trades in the game or not. There is an editor included this year. They will have ps2 and PC updated rosters right after the start of the season. Us Xbox owners will need to get an Action Replay to d/l rosters on your PC and transfer them to your xbox.

FYI, CompUSA had AR for Xbox at $19.99. Not sure if the sale is still on.


Todd

[SackAttack]

Woo. I just sold my copy of NFL Street on PS2, so I'll be able to buy MVP 2004 next week. Now I just need to plan appropriately for ESPN at the end of the month.

[MizzouRah]

Woo. I just sold my copy of NFL Street on PS2, so I'll be able to buy MVP 2004 next week. Now I just need to plan appropriately for ESPN at the end of the month.
Now that's using your resources. All this damn hype, I hope MVP is good. :)

I'm going to have to take a look at ESPN's offering as well.



Todd

[MizzouRah]

IGN's Xbox review of MVP 2004 is up!

http://xbox.ign.com/articles/496/496785p1.html (http://xbox.ign.com/articles/496/496785p1.html)


:)


Todd

[SackAttack]

No Bonds, huh? Sega has the opportunity for a big-time scoop if they can negotiate a deal with him and his agent...

[AgPete]

After reading some of the good things about MVP Baseball in this thread, I'm tempted to buy it. I had only planned on buying OOTP but MVP looks fun. :)

[FBPro]

After reading some of the good things about MVP Baseball in this thread, I'm tempted to buy it. I had only planned on buying OOTP but MVP looks fun. :)

I'll probably be suckered in as well, sounds very promising and trying to be optimistic.

[MizzouRah]

No Bonds, huh? Sega has the opportunity for a big-time scoop if they can negotiate a deal with him and his agent...

SA, are you kidding? I don't see any smilies. :)

No game will have him.



Todd

[SackAttack]

What's the point of leaving the MLBPA if he's not going to sign his own licensing deals? That's just retarded.

[illinifan999]

http://ps2media.ign.com/ps2/image/mvp2004rev_460c.jpg

That kinda looks like A-Rod. Sort of?

[Young Drachma]

MVP 2K4...tomorrow...according to the EA site..

this. looks. awesome.

[SackAttack]

tomorrow's the ship date, yep. I don't know if it'll be in stores before Wednesday though.

[Young Drachma]

Well, some stores get the games prior to the ship date or on the actual date. Like, when I worked at Software Etc., we got the games before the street date and actually put them out on that day, because nerds would be there in the am waiting to get them.

So...I dunno, if they're gonna start selling it on EA.com at midnight tomorrow, then I imagine stores have them or will get them first thing tomorrow - depending on the vendor and such.

[FBPro]

I'll probably stop by EB tomorrow anyway and check, you never know :).

[MizzouRah]

Gamestop called me today and told me it'll be in tomorrow night/early evening.

Unfortunetly, I'll be at the Blues game - BUT I did take Wednesday off, so I guess I'll pick it up at 10am. :)

Although I'm terrible at dynasties, I'm thinking I'll attempt one with MVP - at least as soon as I can get updated rosters.. that should give me about a week to get familiar with the game.


Todd

[samifan24]

I was in Wal-Mart this afternoon and checked just in case since I picked up The Ring a week before it came out due to a stocking mistake, but I guess you can't get lucky twice.

[SackAttack]

Not just on the vendor, but also on the shipping method they're using.

For example, Best Buy uses two types of shipping methods for their games. Ground shipping for most titles, which gets the game there 1-2 days after the rest of the retailers. For major titles, they'll go with overnight shipping.

Madden 2004, I think, we went with overnight on, so maybe they'll do the same for MVP.

[GoSeahawks]

Did I read that review correctly? There is no year to year stat tracking in MVP?

[SackAttack]

That would be retarded, if so...and reason enough for me to not only review the game regardless of whether or not EA sends me a copy, but also to knock it down a point or two. Absolutely no excuse for not having year-to-year stat tracking if you can do it with fucking MADDEN.

[Tasan]

So what games are coming out for PC? So far I see MVP and OOTP, and nothing else. Not even a Baseball Mogul this year, as they seem to have sold out to the console market too.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Every time EA makes you think that they're trying to reach a more serious "simmer" market, they pull something like this. No year-to-year stat tracking. Unbelieveable. I'll get the game anyway, though.

[GoSeahawks]

Dola
And for those of you who didn't read the review......
Personally I would trade some of that for deeper stat-tracking (no year-by-year stats, no MLB records to break) and the ability for retired players to be elected into the Hall. Where MVP makes an effort, it does very well, but there are a few areas that are ignored completely and for next year, that must be remedied.

[samifan24]

Despite the fact that most of us here on FOFC are stat freaks, I would think that something which is standard in Madden (or so I'm told), would therefore be standard in MVP as well. This decision makes little sense to me: EA spent a lot of time adding more GM-type options to the game and spent several years distancing themselves from their Triple Play product, so they obviously want MVP to be more realistic, but then they go and leave year-to-year stat tracking out of the game? Grrrr....

[Eaglesfan27]

That is the X-Box review... I'm hoping that year to year stat tracking will be in the PC version. If so, I'll buy that and a gamepad for my computer. If not, then I will skip MVP this year.

[MizzouRah]

They have totals for MLB players, but not y-b-y from what I gather. Minor league stats are only kept for the year played as well.

I would think it's becuase of the ps2 and GC not having a hardrive to store 120 years worth of stats. Madden only has 30 years and less players. I would think the Xbox could handle all those stats though. :)

I wish EA would say, online for ps2 players and year by year stat tracking for Xbox owners. :D


Todd

[cincyreds]

If any of you baseball stat junkies want to play fantasy baseball this season, I have 2 more openings left in the 12 team FOBA(Front Office Baseball Association) league.

If you are a stat junkie and consider yourself a pretty good GM and that you know you can be an active and competitive manager, I would love have you in our league.

It is an auto-draft that will be held, so to test your GM skills.

Email me if you are interested.

[email protected]

[kserra]

So, it is confirmed? No year-by-year stats in MVP?

Wow, if true, that is one of the biggest flaws I can think of...esp. for a baseball game, which is a game where people obsess with comparing stats and tracking careers...

I was really looking forward to buying my first console baseball game in YEARS, but I guess that might wait another year...major bummer...

Kevin

[cincyreds]

I agree with kserra not putting the year by year stats is a major blow to me also.

I haven't bought a console baseball game in 4 years and it looks like I will be making it 5 years. OOTP6 will be my choice once again this season it looks like.

Come on Markus, do't let me down brother!

[FBPro]

No, year by year stats - but I've read of a mod already being worked on which may atleast enable these to be exported and saved in csv format.

[Pumpy Tudors]

If you're all talking about year-by-year stats of PLAYERS, ESPN Baseball should have this, considering that World Series Baseball 2K3 had it last year. No need to completely write off console sports games because of EA. Until their recent resurgence, EA had been trying to screw up console games for years, but a few other good console games emerged.

[MizzouRah]

If you're all talking about year-by-year stats of PLAYERS, ESPN Baseball should have this, considering that World Series Baseball 2K3 had it last year. No need to completely write off console sports games because of EA. Until their recent resurgence, EA had been trying to screw up console games for years, but a few other good console games emerged.
To each their own, but WS BB 2k3 was terrible, imo. Although now that they got rid of that cursor batting, it just might be decent this year.

There wasn't a more fun to play baseball game last year than MVP 2003, it just played a great game of baseball. Granted no y-b-y stats tick me off, but I'll take minor leagues over y-b-y stats in WS BB.

ootp6 will do just fine for my stat geekness.


Todd

[samifan24]

Did anyone pick up MVP yet? I went to Wal-Mart yesterday to see if they had it but the woman in electronics told me they hadn't unloaded the truck yet. I just wanted to see if anyone tried the game out yet.

[FBPro]

I just got home with it (for PC) and installing it now.

[CleBrownsfan]

I just picked it up for PS2 at my local (Cleveland) Gamestop....

I'm at work so I'll post my review when I dig into it tonight....

The yr to yr stats is a bummer but I've been looking forward to this game for a few months.... we'll see

[Eaglesfan27]

I just got home with it (for PC) and installing it now.

Does the PC version have year to year stats? If so, I'll likely check this one out.

[FBPro]

No, but someone is working on a utility so that they can be exported in csv format.

[MizzouRah]

Just played my first game (Xbox) and damn is this game fun. I really liked 2003, but it lacked alot of 'beef', which 2004 has.

The crowd (sound) is unreal, the batting, pitching, and fielding has been really tweaked for the better. It's only one game, but I'm going to be up late tonight. :)

The crowd stands when someone like Albert Pujols comes up to bat. Pitching is an outright blast. Jason Marquis has one heck of a FB, I think I'm going to like this guy. You can definitly tell speed players vs slow ones (aka Greg Vaughn), so defensive moves are a must if you're late in the game and want to cut down on extra base hits. I'm on Pro to start and the game is very challenging, I'm assuming I'll end up on All-Star when I start my dynasty.

Well, that's it as I'm sure alot of it has to do with the "new game" excitement, but as McDonalds would say, "I'm lovin it". I can also tell the difference on the Xbox vs 2003 version I had on ps2 - as far as speed goes (the game flows nicely).

Oh, the animations are very well done. Randa took out Renteria on a double play attempt and Renteria fell, which caused the ball to pop out of his glove. The runner was called out, but a nice broken up dp. I don't think I've seen the same hit twice either.


Todd

[MizzouRah]

More thoughts:

So far my biggest gripe is there are too many CPU spectacular catches, although that might get remedied with the fielders speed slider.

I'm getting smoked, mostly because I haven't figured out how to run the bases yet.


Todd

[samifan24]

Todd,

You do realize that by telling us all this you are making everything worse?? Keep the updates coming!!! :D

[LastWhiteSoxFanStanding]

Can you talk more about the fielding in MVP? Last year I felt that manual mode was pretty much unuseable because any kind of fly ball that wasn't directly hit to an outfielder was going to drop. Please tell me this is improved!

[MizzouRah]

Fielding has improved, mostly becuase in manual mode once you get close your fielder will stay close to where the catch zone is. I always over ran the ball in 2003. You absolutely HAVE to take the correct angle on the ball or it'll go right past you. I notice a little lag sometimes on double plays, but it has been rare thus far. It's my opinion, but I used auto fielding last year and this year I'm staying on manual... it's that fun. A speed OF will get to almost everything, a slow guy.. well it's going to be a long day. A bit too many diving catches by the computer teams, but it doesn't bother me and there are sliders for fielding speed.

Just finished a game between the Memphis Redbirds and the Iowa Cubs. I think I'm liking the minor league games better than the MLB. :) It's a totally different game vs the MLB game. I won 6-4 in 12 innings and it felt like a minor league game. More errors, blunders, hits... etc. You could tell who has played in the majors before. Once again, I cannot tell you how many different hits I have seen. When looking at replays, the hits make sense according to where I was swinging the bat.

The AI is really good, faster players will take chances (I caught a player trying to take an extra base and had him in a pickle - it was great watching him go back and forth as I attemped to tag him with slower players), seems as if they use the lefty vs lefty - r vs r, most of the time (although they'll keep the pitcher in after he faces the player).

I still need to get better at base running! ...and I've yet to hit a homer (was robbed by a guy on Iowa climbing the wall).


Todd

[MizzouRah]

One more fielding thing I like. If you don't want to use the player that's selected for the play, a little L icon is next to the next closest player, so it's easy to switch by using the left trigger.

Is it ootp in terms of depth, stats, rule v draft, etc..?? Heck no, but it's much deeper and complete than last year and a blast to play.


Todd

[Pumpy Tudors]

I'm with MizzouRah on this one. It's just fun to play, and to be honest, that's really all I'm looking for with MVP Baseball. I like!

[MizzouRah]

ESPN looks interesting, I laughed at this screenshot. Poor Dreifort. :D

http://www.espnvideogames.com/mlb/new/espnmlb_gmcareer01.jpg

[MizzouRah]

I'm with MizzouRah on this one. It's just fun to play, and to be honest, that's really all I'm looking for with MVP Baseball. I like!

Quite fun. I just got some updated rosters from someone at OS, once I get a little better I think I'll be ready to start my dynasty. He did tell me he's doing the minor league players as well.

I've finally hit a couple of homers and my fielding is getting better. I also like the fact that if you leave cheese up there, even a pitcher will hit the crud out of the ball. Pumpy, have you messed with the sliders yet? I think I'm going to bump up the fielders speed or lower the baserunners speed. Too many triples, although my fielding isn't the greatest yet.


Todd

[STK]

The only complaint I have after a few hours of playing is one of the announcers saying "a swing and a miss for strike three" while the batter stood there just looking.

Gameplay is very tight. No concerns at all there for me...so far.

The immersion factor also seems high with constant emails flooding your inbox regarding player (un)happiness, hot prospects around the league, scouting reports for upcoming games, yada yada.

(x-box version)

[sooner333]

I've hit one homer...so far in 6 games...with Dustin Mohr. I've gotten many hits, given up many hits, but score aren't that high. The reason they have so many is the fielding. I get a lot of singles, but can't quite string them together. It's frustrating, but I'm learning...and this game seems to have a high learning curve if you've played other games before. Especially with the right thumbstick for fielding. I'm on Pro level, btw. But, its a fun game. I love the dynasty mode. I don't think I'll ever finish if I played all the minor league games...but I may play an inning or so and sim.

Maybe I'll do an Oklahoma Redhawks dyansty, where I GM the Rangers like real life...but play as the Redhawks...that could be fun.

[SackAttack]

ESPN looks interesting, I laughed at this screenshot. Poor Dreifort. :D

http://www.espnvideogames.com/mlb/new/espnmlb_gmcareer01.jpg

BRILLIANT!

...and quite true, too. As bad as I feel for the guy over his recent injury problems, he was never, at any point, worth the $11m the Dodgers lavish on him each year. When we still had Brown, that was nearly $30m in payroll tied up in just two pitchers, only one of whom could be relied upon for anything approaching 20 starts/year.

[Bill Abner]

So far, 10 games in, MVP is not close to living up to the massive hype. Ah well. I still miss HH2002.

[SackAttack]

Hey, Bill. Long time no see. Don't give up hope just yet, ESPN should kick insane amounts of ass this year.

[Bill Abner]

That's what I'm hoping because MVP just ain't doing it for me.

[Pumpy Tudors]

I'll touch on a few things mentioned here in the thread so far regarding MVP Baseball 2004.

First of all, I haven't touched the sliders yet. I'm actually considering bringing the CPU fielder speed down because they track down just about everything. I've gotten robbed of a few hits. Then again, maybe that's not such a terrible thing. I have seen what appears to be a disproportionate number of triples, but I don't really want to fool with the speed of the players yet. I'll need a few more games to check that out. I really like the combination of fielding and throwing. The animations are nice, and the throwing controls feel great to me. In my mind, EA did a good job with this.

The right thumbstick will take some getting used to, but I find the baserunning even more difficult. I know that it's just a matter of time, but I'll get the hang of it. I love using the thumbstick to slide. It's a lot of fun.

As far as the hype, all of the "Big Four" (Madden, NBA Live, NHL, and MVP) get hyped bigtime every year. I guess I haven't come to expect very much out of anything EA puts out, so I found MVP to be a pleasant surprise. As I said earlier, I just find it fun to play. It's the kind of game that has me thinking "just one more game" whenever I think I'm finished. For the past few months, Winning Eleven 7 has been the only other console game that gives me that feeling. I'll almost certainly buy ESPN Baseball in two weeks, but I think I'll find myself coming back to MVP and giving it some playtime too.

[MizzouRah]

Really Bill? I'm liking MVP. I can't wait until a week or so when some final rosters are done and I'm ready to start a dynasty, that's when I will see how interested I stay in the game.

I wish I was off again today so I could play some more. :)


Todd

[Pumpy Tudors]

Really Bill? I'm liking MVP. I can't wait until a week or so when some final rosters are done and I'm ready to start a dynasty, that's when I will see how interested I stay in the game.

I wish I was off again today so I could play some more. :)

You and I may disagree on ESPN College Hoops, but we agree on MVP. I just decided to start a dynasty with only a couple of changes to the rosters, because I couldn't wait to get into the game. I wish I was off today too.

[samifan24]

Pumpy and Mizzou,

You guys still enjoy the game even with all the deficits Skydog mentioned in the MVP thread?

[Young Drachma]

I think the changes they made were/are ambitious for a major label sports game. I mean, years ago they never would've thought to seek Minor League Baseball license and add those teams.

Yeah, there are flaws. I'm always annoyed about those, but overall, it sounds like something can give me more than OOTP can on days when I feel like actually seeing my team play rather than envisioning them. Though, I do see the obvious problems and the hope would be, now that they've implemented the features, they would improve on it in the future.

Though their obvious lack of concern for PC gamers troubles me, with PCs getting better, faster, stronger than in the ol' days. But oh well...what can ya do?

I think I'm still going to get it. Though, I wish I could be patient and wait until the price goes down, since people obviously don't think its all that super from what I've read here and a few other boards.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Pumpy and Mizzou,

You guys still enjoy the game even with all the deficits Skydog mentioned in the MVP thread?

Darn right, I do. I have NCAA Football 2004, Madden 2004, and NHL 2004, so I knew what to expect from Dynasty Mode. I never expected any of SkyDog's mentions to be in the game. Obviously, your mileage may vary, but I do not have a need for any of those things in this particular game. I just enjoy playing it, and the features that ARE present are suitable for me. I'll also get OOTP6, and I know what kind of experience I'll get from that, so I'll enjoy it. It all comes down to expectations, and MVP exceeds mine. If I were looking for a game specifically like the one SkyDog wants, I'd be unhappy with MVP too, but to be honest, I really don't know where anyone would get the idea that EA would put out a game like that. ;)

[MizzouRah]

Pumpy and Mizzou,

You guys still enjoy the game even with all the deficits Skydog mentioned in the MVP thread?
Sure do. I knew it wouldn't come close to ootp in terms of depth, but I can only play so many text sims. I need some graphics! :eek:

Watching Pujols hit a homer last night off of Ponson was so much more satisfying than reading it from text. :)

ESPN and All-Star will have their faults as well. I actually love playing minor league games as well.

I'm thinking the Xbox could hold any amount of stats EA could want, but they cater to the ps2 and an 8 meg memory card couldn't hold 120 years worth of stats. Hopefully, the next crop of consoles will bring the depth ootp has in terms of stats.


Todd

[MizzouRah]

If I were looking for a game specifically like the one SkyDog wants, I'd be unhappy with MVP too, but to be honest, I really don't know where anyone would get the idea that EA would put out a game like that. http://dynamic2.gamespy.com/%7Efof/forums/images/smilies/wink.gif
I agree, although I am disappointed by the no year by year stats, but ootp will get my $$$ as well.

I wanted a realistic graphical baseball game and MVP fits the bill thus far.


Todd<!-- / message --><!-- sig -->

[MizzouRah]

Hey Pumpy Tudors, if you have an Xbox, one of the editors over at OS (sdrotar (http://forums.operationsports.com/ubbthreads/showprofile.php?Cat=&User=355&Board=MVPBB&what=ubbthreads&page=1&view=collapsed&sb=5&o=)) made a roster update for MVP. Said it took him 14 hours, but you need an Action Replay to download them. You can get them over at operation sports in the rosters forum.

I haven't tried them yet due to the fact my AR memory card was sent back for replacement. Darn it! I'm starting a franchise as soon as it gets here. :)

Here's the link: http://forums.operationsports.com/ubbthreads/showflat.php?Cat=&Number=903199&page=0&view=collapsed&sb=5&o=&fpart=1

and the readme:

My notes:

I think this is as complete a roster as you can expect without the fictional minor leaguers re-named.

- All real players are on their correct teams - including every minor-leaguer. That was a mess - the default rosters are VERY outdated! Any players who have been retired/unsigned/playing in Japan are in the Free Agent list.

- Created Joe Mauer, Kazuo Matsui, and Adam LaRoche (all three are projected to be starters) using Baseball America's Prospect Handbook. I edited three fictional minor leaguers with the correct size and body type in order to save create-a-player spots.

- Performed the same procedure to create Rick Reed (PIT), Kevin Millar (BOS), Cory Lidle (CIN) and Damian Miller (OAK).

- Dowd (SF) changed to Bonds.

- Added secondary positions to Alex Rodriguez (3b) and Jose Reyes (2b).

- Used ESPN.com for lineups and rotations.

- NOTE - The minor leagues are "idealized". Injuries are not accounted for (except for Mo Vaughn), and real players will be serving on AAA teams whenever possible. As a result, some AA teams may have players out of position.

- NOTE 2 - This roster has been designed for three uses.
1) Immediate Exhibition play.
2) Immediate Dynasty Play for those who don't mind fictional minor leaguers.
3) A solid base for other roster builders to use if they intend to name and re-rate the fictional minor league players. (As always, please give credit where credit is due...)

This has taken over 14 solid hours of work, but the quality (and quick turnaround time) is worth it, right? I hope you appreciate it!

Happy gaming!

- Shawn


Thanks to Shawn for all his hard work,

Todd

[Pumpy Tudors]

Thanks for the tip. I don't have an Action Replay yet, and by the time I get one, I'll probably be too attached to my current dynasty, even though I'm only three games into it. I'll think about it, though. Thanks again!

[illinifan999]

Wow got it. Played 2 games so far, but wow. This is definatly the most challenging basbeball game I've played in a long time. Hitting and pitching are so much harder. When you're pitching one mistake and there could be the game. This happened in my AA game vs. the Montgomery Biscuits. Missed my mark with a curveball and it ended up hanging and some AA guy got a whole lotta wood on it.

So far the only thing I don't like is so far I've had 2 inside the park home runs against me. The first one was my fault I guess since I dove and missed but the other one was in the gap and my fielders arm sucked and grrrr that was the ball-game. :(

[samifan24]

Wow got it. Played 2 games so far, but wow. This is definatly the most challenging basbeball game I've played in a long time. Hitting and pitching are so much harder. When you're pitching one mistake and there could be the game. This happened in my AA game vs. the Montgomery Biscuits. Missed my mark with a curveball and it ended up hanging and some AA guy got a whole lotta wood on it.

So far the only thing I don't like is so far I've had 2 inside the park home runs against me. The first one was my fault I guess since I dove and missed but the other one was in the gap and my fielders arm sucked and grrrr that was the ball-game. :(

Heh. You lost to the Biscuits. :D Do you have the PC, PS2 or X-Box version?

[MizzouRah]

Yes, taking the correct angle in the outfield takes some practice.

:)


Todd

[GoSeahawks]

I have played about 20 games so far and haven't hit a homerun. I don't know what I am doing wrong. Anyway, I am enjoying the game so far, but I don't like how there are no walks.

[samifan24]

I have played about 20 games so far and haven't hit a homerun. I don't know what I am doing wrong. Anyway, I am enjoying the game so far, but I don't like how there are no walks.

Oh man, I thought they fixed the no walks problem? :sighs: I want to buy this game but it seems so hard. Every time I try to get excited something new comes up. I plan to buy OOTP6 for my more realistic front-office gaming, but still, as an arcade game, I keep hearing things about MVP which disappoint me.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Well, if you're patient enough, there will be walks. Now, if you're not PITCHING any walks, well, you will eventually pay for throwing the ball into the strike zone so damn much. ;)

[sooner333]

Hmmm, I thinking I should fix my rosters more, I was so anxious to start a dyansty that I only did the A-Rod trade. There are some good players in the FA pool. I've already made moves, such as trading Tomko for Carlos Guzman. Signing El Duque. Trading Marvin Benard (too much money for minors), Nefei Perez, and Jeffery Hammonds for Chad Bradford. Taking the money saved in that trade to sign Raul Mondesi, and then trading Dustin Mohr for the Royals best pitching prospect. But seeing quality players sit in the FA pool is kinda weird, but nobody really has the bank to sign them.

[SackAttack]

I just picked up MVP 2004 on my way home from work and popped it into my Xbox. What immediately strikes me is the fact that it includes player suspensions, rainouts, and the manager mode that so many folks here seem to crave.

All three of those things just flat out rock, which makes the lack of year-to-year stats so much more galling. Just...gah.

[SackAttack]

But seeing quality players sit in the FA pool is kinda weird, but nobody really has the bank to sign them.

I wonder if turning budgets off would help that? Or if it would just lead to the Royals spending like the Yankees...

[sooner333]

Well, considering I won't have the bank to sign any of the remainder, I'll just see what happens. I really had to unload some wasted salary to get modesi (and I got bradford). The trade really made sense for the A's, and I'm kinda baffled why they didn't make the move just for perez...Crosby sucks in the game and the A's start Perez now.

[SackAttack]

Heh. There's some weirdness in the AI. Gagne wants a new contract as a reliever, not a closer. that just made me giggle.

[SackAttack]

Dola, I've noticed all five of my starting pitchers have the role 'MLB Ace.' right off the bat. Now, I know LA has a good rotation, but that seems a little ridiculous. Is anybody else having that issue?

[MizzouRah]

The default rosters are really messed up, hence getting an AR and d/l the updated ones I posted. :)


Todd

[samifan24]

Guys,

I just read IGN's review of MVP for the PC. Since this is all I've got I *have* to get it for PC. The reviewer suggests getting a gamepad. Any suggestions for a cheap, useable gamepad? (I've heard MVP has problems with a lot of them)

[FBPro]

Logitech Dual Action, roughly $20.00 and mirrors the PS2 controllers exactly.

[SackAttack]

My early impressions thus far...

Enjoyable game? Yup.

Improved over last year? Drastically in some areas, minimally in others, but almost no regression.

Worth the 50 bones? Yes and no. I wish EA would compromise and incorporate roster updates via Live as a couple of last year's baseball games did, but otherwise it feels like a game that'll hold up pretty well, the lack of year-to-year stat tracking notwithstanding.

Best baseball game this year? If you asked me this, the words "Not a chance" would be out of my mouth before you finished, although I really should qualify that. As much as MVP 2004 has added that I really, really like, there are some areas where the polish is lacking, as well as a couple of fairly glaring holes. If Sega seriously drops the ball on ESPN Major League Baseball - and, in fairness, I'm going to reserve judgment until I play the final build in a little over a week - then, yeah, you could make a convincing case for MVP 2004 as best baseball game of the year.

For the moment, I'm inclined to go with "A solid, but unambiguous, #2, lacking only improvment in a couple areas to go over the top."

I mean, in fairness, this is only EA's second release since completely overhauling their baseball franchise, and to have it be in this condition so quickly is a tribute to the folks they have working on it, but Visual Concepts have had an extra year's work on the World Series franchise, and I honestly believe that they're the folks to beat right now.

[TazFTW]

Logitech Dual Action, roughly $20.00 and mirrors the PS2 controllers exactly.


A note about the Dual Action. It seems that the left analog stick wears out pretty fast. I'm already on my second one and the reviews at Amazon state the same. But it is EASports' prefered gamepad and maybe Logitech has made it more reliable by now.

[FBPro]

I've had mine for about 6 or 7 months now w/ no problems but it is possible.

[Balldog]

I'm really considering getting MVP 2004 for XBOX but have a few questions.

Can you actually steal bases this year?
Does the AI still pull its starting pitcher too early?
What sliders are there?

[MizzouRah]

I'm really considering getting MVP 2004 for XBOX but have a few questions.

Can you actually steal bases this year?
Does the AI still pull its starting pitcher too early?
What sliders are there?

Yes, although the computer has only tried a few times on me.
Nope, the AI does warm up a pitcher in the 4th innings sometimes, but it uses them pretty well.
Sliders galore, in fact I would goto www.operationsports.com (http://www.operationsports.com) to look through the slider thread, a guy named pared has some pretty good ones, although I'm still on defaults until I get better at the game. :)


Todd

[Eaglesfan27]

My resistance is weakening. I'm disappointed with the lack of year to year stats, but I'll have OOTP6 soon for my hardcore stat experience. I played this game at a friend's house today and it seems like a lot of fun. I may have to go pick up a copy for when I'm in the mood for a graphical baseball game (although I'll probably get the PS2 version as I don't see any advantage to getting the PC version at this time.) I have 17 days of vacation coming up and I'll need to have something to help take up the time :)

[cincyreds]

I just cannot believe that they left out year to year stats!

I love being able to look back at history and see how my players progress or slide.

MAJOR BUMMER for me. Baseball is all about stats, I just cannot believe that EA did that.

If its in the game, it's in the game??

Last time I checked baseball was all about stats and such. Well it ain't IN the game EA!

[MizzouRah]

I just cannot believe that they left out year to year stats!

I love being able to look back at history and see how my players progress or slide.

MAJOR BUMMER for me. Baseball is all about stats, I just cannot believe that EA did that.

If its in the game, it's in the game??

Last time I checked baseball was all about stats and such. Well it ain't IN the game EA!

Again, thank the ps2. Majors, AAA, and AA times 120 years. Think all of that would fit on an 8 meg memory card? :) Although that may not be the reason, I would suspect it could be.


Todd

[SackAttack]

Can you actually steal bases this year?

Yes, but it's still devilishly hard. Using Dave Roberts, who stole something like 40 bases for LA two years ago, I've stolen something like one out of six successfully.

Does the AI still pull its starting pitcher too early?

There's a bit too much bullpen activity, but the only time I've seen the starting pitcher get pulled early is when he's getting shelled. YMMV.

What sliders are there?

The usual. Things like fielder speed, throw speed, throw accuracy, pitch speed, baserunner speed, etc.

[samifan24]

I just cannot believe that they left out year to year stats!

I love being able to look back at history and see how my players progress or slide.

MAJOR BUMMER for me. Baseball is all about stats, I just cannot believe that EA did that.

If its in the game, it's in the game??

Last time I checked baseball was all about stats and such. Well it ain't IN the game EA!

Well, if it's any consolation to you, I heard that someone is making some sort of add-on which allows you to export y-b-y stats for the PC version. Anyone know anything more about this "add-on?"

[FBPro]

Nothing on it yet.

[illinifan999]

So far I'm 22/30 on stolen base attempts. I use the PS2 version so I just give the base runner a two step lead from where he starts off. Sometimes they'll try to pick but hit R1 and you'll get back in time. Then it's just a matter of picking the right type of slide or making it in there easy.

At first I couldn't hit a HR for the life of me. I've found out now that if you have a power hitter aka Sammy Sosa, and you time it right if you push the left analog stick as you hit it, if you time it right you might get a HR. I've hit a lot more HR's using this method. But I've also hit a lot more pop-ups with it as well.

So far my only complaint/worry is that Joe Borowski my closer is complaining abotu PT and he's bringing my Team Chemistry down and I can't really figure out how to give him more playing time. Another thing is the "I'm becoming concerned about my performance, help me out" email, since I don't really know how to help him out.

[SackAttack]

I'm homerless with everybody except Juan Encarnacion, who has 11 HR in his first 7 games. I can't explain it.

My larger gripe, chemistry-wise, is that players who are unhappy with their contracts will ask for more money...but a reduced role. It's completely unrealistic for my starting left fielder to be demanding a bench role instead of a starter role, or for my ace pitcher to be asking to be made a spot starter.

[sooner333]

I still haven't figured out how to hit HR on Xbox.

[illinifan999]

Whatever XBOX is using as its free swing method like if you move the left analog stick the right the hit is more likely to head to right field, left to left field etc. Just try pressing up when you know a fastball is likely (That's what I've hit most of my HR's off) and press your button up before you swing and if it's timed right you might get a HR.

[mtaystl03]

PC Version? Are there roster updates yet? Just trying to get caught up!! What stores would have it on the PC? I'm in a small town for college but would Wal-Mart, K-Mart or any other "bigger" stores have it for PC?

[FBPro]

I saw it at Target for PC on Saturday. By now I'd say most stores along those lines have it now. There are roster updates, an editor and some graphical mods out already.

[mtaystl03]

Awesome. Thanks! Off to Wal-Mart to see if they have it.

[mtaystl03]

OK I got it. Now, where is the best place to go for mods? I went to the high heat place but they are just some scattered stadiums and stuff. baseballsimcentral.com didn't have anything. Should I wait for TotalMinors or is there something good out there now?

[FBPro]

http://www.mvpmods.com/

[samifan24]

Grr I just got back from my local Wal-Mart, one of the biggest in the US, and they did not have MVP for PC in stock and only put out the X-Box and PS versions today. They had no idea why they didn't have any copies of the PC version. When you don't have a car and you're off at college, it's tough to come by games sometimes. Grr..... :mad:

[FBPro]

Bummer, I just saw some guy over at http://www.400softwarestudios.com/invboard/upload/index.php?showtopic=51326 is wanting to sell his PC copy. Might check it out.

[Eaglesfan27]

I'm enjoying MVP which I'm glad about especially since according to Gamespot, ESPN Baseball isn't going to make it out March 23rd as expected, but is now pushed back to April 14th.

Link:

hxxp://www.gamespot.com/news/2004/03/15/news_6091507.html

[SackAttack]

I'm hopeful that the delay just means they're either going to incorporate online leagues for Xbox (the demo mentioned them, but I've heard elsewhere that's only for PS2). Of course, they can also use the three weeks to tweak the results a bit, especially since they've added some fairly major behind-the-scenes gameplay elements this season, but I'd still like to see online play kick some ass.

[Desnudo]

Once I played with the sliders a bit it's been pretty enjoyable. Still feels a bit clunky overall. I'm suprised it's not much smoother, both gameplay and GUI-wise, considering EA's accomplishments with Madden and NCAA Football.

Side note: I pitched a perfect game with Pedro and nothing happened. No extra celebration or boost to my coach rating. What a let down.

[MizzouRah]

I really stink at baserunning! I mean, I REALLY stink at baserunning!!

I kind of like the manage mode, it's VERY basic, but at least I can manage somewhat instead of fast simming the game.


Todd

[Pumpy Tudors]

I've gotten quite a bit better at the baserunning, but I do wish I could stop in the middle of a game and sim it to the end. Oh well. I still think it's a good game.

[GoSeahawks]

I've gotten quite a bit better at the baserunning, but I do wish I could stop in the middle of a game and sim it to the end. Oh well. I still think it's a good game.
You can in dynasty mode.

[Pumpy Tudors]

You can in dynasty mode.

I'm in dynasty mode, but I haven't found that option. Hrm.

[MizzouRah]

I'm in dynasty mode, but I haven't found that option. Hrm.
Hmmm.. don't have the game on, but hit your start button during a game and the bottom option is sim options or something like that. You can fast sim, or manage mode the rest of the game you're playing or vice-versa.

When I'm getting smoked, I do it all the time. :)


Todd

[samifan24]

Grr I just got back from my local Wal-Mart, one of the biggest in the US, and they did not have MVP for PC in stock and only put out the X-Box and PS versions today. They had no idea why they didn't have any copies of the PC version. When you don't have a car and you're off at college, it's tough to come by games sometimes. Grr..... :mad:

Ok well I just ordered the game off of Amazon.com and, with the $5 I saved, I took 3-5 day shipping and still paid less than I would have had I bought the game at Wal-Mart, so while I have to wait a little longer, things seemed to work out.

[mtaystl03]

I took my PC version back to Walmart and got the XBox version for the simple reason that I have so much shit on my computer that it woudnt run smooth at all and would often crash if something else popped up. I know there are ways to deal with this stuff but I just don't want to. I am happy with the XBox version, although I haven't had too much time to play it.

How much is a unit to download stuff off the internet and where would I find it? I just need the name and I will search for it on Ebay, I really want some roster updates.

Thanks.

[Nyarlahotep]

I took my PC version back to Walmart and got the XBox version for the simple reason that I have so much shit on my computer that it woudnt run smooth at all and would often crash if something else popped up. I know there are ways to deal with this stuff but I just don't want to. I am happy with the XBox version, although I haven't had too much time to play it.

How much is a unit to download stuff off the internet and where would I find it? I just need the name and I will search for it on Ebay, I really want some roster updates.

Thanks.

Action Replay.

[mtaystl03]

That's what I thought. Thanks. I was suprised that Wal-Mart didn't have it. Any other stores I should check before going the ebay route?

[Pumpy Tudors]

That's what I thought. Thanks. I was suprised that Wal-Mart didn't have it. Any other stores I should check before going the ebay route?

I got my Action Replay at a Babbages/GameStop store. I don't know what places you have in your area, but if Wal-Mart didn't have it, I don't think you'll find it anywhere except a dedicated software/video game store.

[mtaystl03]

I just got it at ebay. I can mess around with the game until it comes. What are the advantages of the action replay other than the roster updates? Anything?

[FBPro]

If I'm not mistaken AR is just the "medium" for saving the rosters it doesn't make them different.

[mtaystl03]

Huh?

[FBPro]

Duh, misread your post....there are 'cheat codes' available that can be used with them.

[MizzouRah]

You can get it at compusa for $19.99. Believe me, it's worth it, although you might have to send the memory card back to the manufacturer like I did. There is a known issue with rosters and the included memory card. I just bought mine 2 weeks ago, so it's a good chance you'll have a defective one as well. I bought an Xbox one at Walmart, d/l the rosters and took it back. (Mine is still being returned to Datel)

Todd

[Nyarlahotep]

Duh, misread your post....there are 'cheat codes' available that can be used with them.

I heard the XBox version didn't have cheat codes. But then again, they could have just meant any worthwhile ones.

[FBPro]

I was just referring to the "Action Replay" in general, I don't own an Xbox so really don't know about that.

[nfg22]

A few questions?


Is MVP on the PC?
What specs are needed for it?
I can run Madden 2004 fine should I be able to run it on my computer?

[Crapshoot]

1. Yes
2. See 3.
3. Absolutely.

[Crapshoot]

I don't have the game, but that's just what I've garnered. :D

[mtaystl03]

I love this game. I am starting to get better while waiting for my action replay to get here so I can get the rosters. Have there been any more updates (with the real minor leaguers) or anything?

I don't understand why you had to send back your memory card and what it has to do with dl the rosters?

[samifan24]

Does anyone know why my USB controller will not work in the PC version of MVP? Is it one of the unsupported controllers? I think it might be, since I am unable to use it within MVP, but I know it works...will I have to buy a Logitech, even with the left analog stick error?

[FBPro]

I've got the Logitech, had it for 6 or 8 months and never had a issue with it.

[samifan24]

Can anyone vouch for the feasibility of this suggestion (http://boards.ea.com/[email protected]@.1defd87d)? Apparently there is a way to "trick" my computer into thinking my USB gamepad is actually a Logitech Dual Action gamepad, but I'm afraid to tinker with something when I'm not really sure if this could completely screw everything up later.