PS2 owners: MLB "The Show"

[MizzouRah]

Yep, I did what I rarely do, this game is pre-ordered. It looks damn good and I plan to take a day or two off around March 1st.

http://media.sports.ign.com/articles/688/688378/vids_1.html

Cards - Cubs baby!!

[MizzouRah]

dola,

I'm lame posting to my own thread, but I've played so many 3 inning demo games that I feel like a kid waiting for this one to drop next week.

Was losing 7-0 after 3 after that damn White Sox lineup. Maybe the Astros know I don't like 'em. ;)

[Eaglesfan27]

I look forward to hearing your impressions of the full game, Todd.

[MizzouRah]

I look forward to hearing your impressions of the full game, Todd.
Thanks, here's a video of someone playing the demo.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=LuJWnds934Q&search=mlb%20the%20show

I'm not kidding when I say I might take Friday off next week. Work has been so busy and I need a good relaxing day of baseball. :)

The demo is on rookie mode and I have to say it plays very well. You can't adjust anything, it's just pick up and play.

[Coop]

I hope it's not as buggy as last seaons

[FBPro]

I got this game last year and likely will this year as well, although it did have some issues for me it was also quite fun.

[CraigSca]

How was it different from MVP 2005? Is it a niche game - e.g. does it try to be different and do other things well that MVP does not?

[FBPro]

Has mode similar to ITP where you create a player and try to reach the major leagues. I enjoyed this mode last year.

[Icy]

Has mode similar to ITP where you create a player and try to reach the major leagues. I enjoyed this mode last year.Now you got me interested. I'm trying to resist to buy a console, but EA college games and some others are putting the things really hard to me. Btw, is there any way/hardware to plug a PS2 or XBOX in a TFT computer monitor instead of a TV?

[MizzouRah]

How was it different from MVP 2005? Is it a niche game - e.g. does it try to be different and do other things well that MVP does not?
Well, the play by play is THE BEST of any sports game, bar none.. and I mean that.

The game is the FULL baseball experience as far as playing a game goes. They had freezing issues as well as a few gameplay problems last year, and if the demo is any indication, either fixed or workable.

You can put the game on FAST mode, which basically cuts out the cuts scenes, etc.. but if you have time to really let the game play, the immersion is top knotch.

It has a deep franchise mode and new this year you can select to make roster moves (real life trades) for any team, if you choose that option at the beginning of your career.

If the annoying things are truly fixed (rocket arms from the outfield, strikezone too big, etc) this could be one heck of a game.

I loved MVP 2005, but it does not have the immersion MLB gives you.

[Eaglesfan27]

Well, the play by play is THE BEST of any sports game, bar none.. and I mean that.

The game is the FULL baseball experience as far as playing a game goes. They had freezing issues as well as a few gameplay problems last year, and if the demo is any indication, either fixed or workable.

You can put the game on FAST mode, which basically cuts out the cuts scenes, etc.. but if you have time to really let the game play, the immersion is top knotch.

It has a deep franchise mode and new this year you can select to make roster moves (real life trades) for any team, if you choose that option at the beginning of your career.

If the annoying things are truly fixed (rocket arms from the outfield, strikezone too big, etc) this could be one heck of a game.

I loved MVP 2005, but it does not have the immersion MLB gives you.
Hmm, big praise from you. If I hear that the freezing problems and rocket arms are fixed, I'll probably pick this up. I love the College Baseball game (still playing 4-5 games/week and just about done my first season) but I know I'll still want a MLB game once the season starts.

[MizzouRah]

Hmm, big praise from you. If I hear that the freezing problems and rocket arms are fixed, I'll probably pick this up. I love the College Baseball game (still playing 4-5 games/week and just about done my first season) but I know I'll still want a MLB game once the season starts.
I always get pegged for praising games, but with the freezing and non fixable issues, MVP took center stage last year. I loved MVP, but the presentation was bland - gameplay was great.

MLB had great presentation, commentary.. but gameplay had issues... not to mention some freezes that occured here and there.

Like most have said, fix the freezing, gameplay bugs, and BAM! this game could be what it should have been last year. Good thing is, they've added some things this year.

The demo is on rookie mode, and it plays very well out of the box so to speak. If this is what the full game will play like, I'm excited.

I'm getting it as soon as Gamestop calls and plan on playing the heck out of it, so I'll post impressions. I'm going to play on rookie, just like the demo, right out of the box to start.

[MizzouRah]

Something interesting I read about MLB The Show:


Another big addition to MLB 06 The Show is a feature called “Game Time Decisions”. With this, you will have to make decisions for the good of your franchise, and your place in the standings. Prior to a game, you might be notified that a player is in a slump, or is fatigued and needs a day off, or perhaps your starting pitcher has developed a blister. It is your choice whether you play these guys and risk further injury, or rest them, play it safe and possibly hurt your chances for a win that day.
I like the concept of this idea in a sports game. If done right, could really add some excitement in the playoffs.

[cougarfreak]

If they fixed the Manage only Mode, it would be the best graphical manage mode game I've seen.

[Eaglesfan27]

If they fixed the Manage only Mode, it would be the best graphical manage mode game I've seen.
Wow. I'd love to play a good graphical manage mode.

[cougarfreak]

Wow. I'd love to play a good graphical manage mode.

I'd suggest giving the game a rent then. Last year, you could pick where you wanted to pitch a guy before each pitch, several camera modes including one from the dugout. The bug that quashed the computer making subs killed it though. If that's fixed, and the rest was left alone, it'll be dynamite.

[gkb]

I'm really interested in hearing people's impressions of the full game once it's out. I'm looking for a good baseball game this year...I usually stay away, but for whatever reason I've got the urge to play the Rockies on franchise mode. :)

[FBPro]

Just went and pre-ordered this one today, I only get a couple of PS2 games a year and this is one of them.

[Philliesfan980]

So, in summary, is this game worth $200? (Of course we won't know until its out) Because thats basically what it would come down to for me. I really don't have any qualms with paying $200 for countless hours of entertainment, but I'm hoping that it pays off.

Good stuff on the manage only mode, I didn't even know that it had that feature!

[ice4277]

This sounds interesting. Its probably been about 4 years since I purchased a baseball game and was thinking about doing it this year. I was considering EA's game, but I'm not really a big college baseball fan, and I'm not sure I'd get into it too much. If you guys enjoy this one, it will probably make the decision for me.

[CraigSca]

Is this from 989 sports? I've never, ever liked any 989 title. Whether it is or not, I look forward to Todd's review :)

[MizzouRah]

Is this from 989 sports? I've never, ever liked any 989 title. Whether it is or not, I look forward to Todd's review :)
Hey it's SCEA now. ;)

One thing is for sure, I've never played a demo more than this one. :)

[MizzouRah]

Just went and pre-ordered this one today, I only get a couple of PS2 games a year and this is one of them.
Did you get the demo? If so, what do you think??

[cougarfreak]

For you manage only guys (like me), here's a description of what was in the game last year.

hxxp://forums.operationsports.com/vBulletin/showthread.php?t=157989&highlight=manage+mode

[Philliesfan980]

Hmm, after looking at some of the greatest hits listing that are currently selling at 19.99 a pop, I might just pick up a PS2 now, hold off on the 360, and wait for the seemingly more promising PS3. Have they offically announced that the PS3 is going to be out in 07 now? Based on the lack of info, I don't see anyway that they get this out by christmas.

Question for those with the newer "slim" PS2's. Have the fixed the lasers in them? One of the biggest issues that I had with my old PS2 (got rid of it about 2 years ago), was that the laser in it went twice, and I'm not what you would consider a "heavy" gamer, but mainly a weekend guy. Also, I've heard of freeze up problems in some of the newer games (again, these could go hand in hand with laser issues), that require a little more disk access.

[Icy]

I'll wait also for your reviews, but this game could be the final push needed to buy a console. I have seen an online Spanish shop with the PS2 with the mod chips alredy installed at a good price. (I guess i would need the chip to play USA games as i doubt this kind of USA sports games are released for the European market).

[MizzouRah]

http://www.readyfortheshow.com/players/jtsmith/section/profile

"The Show" videos... nothing as far as game content, but funny nonetheless.

[dervack]

Hmm, after looking at some of the greatest hits listing that are currently selling at 19.99 a pop, I might just pick up a PS2 now, hold off on the 360, and wait for the seemingly more promising PS3. Have they offically announced that the PS3 is going to be out in 07 now? Based on the lack of info, I don't see anyway that they get this out by christmas.

Question for those with the newer "slim" PS2's. Have the fixed the lasers in them? One of the biggest issues that I had with my old PS2 (got rid of it about 2 years ago), was that the laser in it went twice, and I'm not what you would consider a "heavy" gamer, but mainly a weekend guy. Also, I've heard of freeze up problems in some of the newer games (again, these could go hand in hand with laser issues), that require a little more disk access.
It has been said that the newer slim PS2 does have some problems with both PSOne games and PS2, which I thought was kinda weird.

[MizzouRah]

25 pictures of the new Busch Stadium via MLB The Show!!

http://www.kmov.com/perl/common/slideshow/sspop.pl?recid=865&location=www.kmov.com

Video link:
http://www.kmov.com/perl/common/vide...227_rprps2.wmv (http://www.kmov.com/perl/common/video/wmPlayer.pl?title=www.kmov.com/060227_rprps2.wmv)

http://www.kmov.com/images/slideshow/060227_buschps2/images/KMOV-10041.jpg

http://www.kmov.com/images/slideshow/060227_buschps2/images/KMOV-0038.jpg


http://www.kmov.com/images/slideshow/060227_buschps2/images/KMOV-0047.jpg



http://www.kmov.com/images/slideshow/060227_buschps2/images/KMOV-0053.jpg



http://www.kmov.com/images/slideshow/060227_buschps2/images/KMOV-0058.jpg

[MizzouRah]

Picked it up on the way home... I love it.

Rocket arms are gone, except for Rolen who can gun it like no other. Hit variety is better than MVP, imo. I've seen high choppers, bloop hits, rockets down the third base line, etc... unreal how much better it is this year.

Animations are really good and the commentary is just.. well MLB.

The only issue I see that merits mentioning is the hit through the infield that the fielder just stands there as it goes into the outfield. It happens almosts once a game for me so far and while it's not a gamebreaker by any means, it looks goofy in an otherwise great game animation wise.

Seriously, I'm playing on rookie with the CPU pitch speed set to max.. I know I suck, but I love the simplicity of "timing" hitting and on fast pitch speed, I still K sometimes. The CPU offense is great on rookie level and I almost think that part of the game does not change with the level, that is CPU gameplay AI.

All in all so far, it's a great game and everything that turned me off last year has been fixed. I'll post back after several more games, but so far it's been quite a fun game to play. Too many times in console sports games people compare stats to real life and all I really want is a fun game to play. Well, this game does that.

[jbmagic]

Todd

how the Walks on it compare to MVP?

[FBPro]

I got it as well but have yet to play it, maybe tomorrow.

[MizzouRah]

Todd

how the Walks on it compare to MVP?Walks have been fine for both me and the CPU. Mistake pitches are handled well, especially good hitters. The thing I like about rookie, is I don't strikeout 15 times. Yes, it's easier, but I like it so far with the pitch speed turned all the way up.

After a few more games, I'm really liking this year's game a lot. Just beat Boston 9-6, but it was one heck of a game. Mulder was shelled and my bullpen pulled through. I was losing 6-5 in the 7th when Edmonds got his only hit, a booming opposite field HR. I love the play of the game, reminds me of NFL 2k5 when they had the big plays of the game.

I'm going to start a franchise Friday when I have some good play time. It starts out in spring training, so that should give me some more games to brush up on.

It's weird, but even on rookie the CPU plays an intelligent game of baseball so far in my games played. They'll take chances, bunt, take pitches, etc...

[FBPro]

I'm liking what I'm hearing about it so far.

[Sweed]

How would you compare the graphics to last year's MVP? The screenies and videos I've seen look pretty good but the reviews I've read are saying they are pretty plain considering the ps2 is in it's sixth year.

Does it animate the pitchers warming up in the bullpen? I loved that last year in MVP, looking out over the LF wall in Washington or in the corners of Dodger stadium etc. Really added to the immersion so I hope it's in The Show.

One thing that I liked that you said is the AI seems to play the same good game on each level. I've never understood why we should have to tweak what the AI can do. I mean it should be tested to death to hit, field, and pitch to realistic levels at default no matter what level you are on. I can understand having to tweak for a human as we all have different abilities ie reaction times, vision, etc. but not the AI.
So if your first impression holds up and this is true it is a nice breakthrough that I haven't seen any other game make.

Either way I'll probably break down tommorow and buy it to get my baseball fix until ootp 2006 comes out.

[CraigSca]

Todd

how the Walks on it compare to MVP?
I think walks will always be an issue is games on the console. Frankly, people prefer the "fun" of hitting vs. the "fun" of taking a pitch. I'm not saying there should be no walks, but I think you'll always have less in a console game than in RL.

[lynchjm24]

I think walks will always be an issue is games on the console. Frankly, people prefer the "fun" of hitting vs. the "fun" of taking a pitch. I'm not saying there should be no walks, but I think you'll always have less in a console game than in RL.

A mode where high walk players start 2-0 or 3-1 would be a start. High strikeout guys start 0-1 or 1-2...

[CraigSca]

A mode where high walk players start 2-0 or 3-1 would be a start. High strikeout guys start 0-1 or 1-2...
Ah - I don't know why I never thought of that, but that's a really cool idea.

[MizzouRah]

A mode where high walk players start 2-0 or 3-1 would be a start. High strikeout guys start 0-1 or 1-2...
Ala.. 1 pitch mode.. ala High Heat. :)

[MizzouRah]

How would you compare the graphics to last year's MVP? The screenies and videos I've seen look pretty good but the reviews I've read are saying they are pretty plain considering the ps2 is in it's sixth year.

Does it animate the pitchers warming up in the bullpen? I loved that last year in MVP, looking out over the LF wall in Washington or in the corners of Dodger stadium etc. Really added to the immersion so I hope it's in The Show.

One thing that I liked that you said is the AI seems to play the same good game on each level. I've never understood why we should have to tweak what the AI can do. I mean it should be tested to death to hit, field, and pitch to realistic levels at default no matter what level you are on. I can understand having to tweak for a human as we all have different abilities ie reaction times, vision, etc. but not the AI.
So if your first impression holds up and this is true it is a nice breakthrough that I haven't seen any other game make.

Either way I'll probably break down tommorow and buy it to get my baseball fix until ootp 2006 comes out.
The graphics look like well, a ps2 game. I have it hooked up via s-video cables to a good TV, so it looks fine, imo... YMMV. I'll have to watch another Cardinals game to see if my relief pitchers show up warming up. I do know when you go to your bullpen the left side of the screen opens up and it shows them warming up when you pick a player, so it should show that on the screen while you're playing, I would assume.

I think it was like that last year in reference to the levels and challenge. Hey, if the CPU can score 6 runs on me on rookie, I'm cool with that. The big change as you go up levels is the way you hit the ball and guess the pitch. Veteran might be where I end up as having to move the L stick to swing will probably result in me striking out more, but for now rookie is fine for me.

[CraigSca]

I just picked this up today so I should be able to give this a shot this afternoon. I never played this one before and only played MVP 2005 last year so I'll be able to compare the two.

Judging from Todd, it sounds like you can hit homeruns (which only seemed to happen for me in MVP when I swung for the fence) and the CPU can score runs against you (which happened infrequently in MVP for me - Sidney Ponson was lights-out - ugh).

[CraigSca]

Okay, got my first game under my belt. About halfway through the game I began saying to myself, "this is fun!"

I'm playing on rookie mode (just because I hate having to guess pitches/location/etc) and I'm finding the CPU to be very competitive - my A's lost to the White Sox, 7-5.

Things I like:

It's a little easier to work the count in this game than in MVP. Of course, this is with normal pitch speed - which I think I may be upping a bit in the future.

The presentation is MUCH better than MVP. Much more commentary (and varied as well) and much more immersion. One thing I noticed in MVP is they never said the team names when giving the score every half inning - that's not a problem here.

I hit a few homeruns with just tapping the X button - no need to aim for the fences.

It's easy to make a mistake pitch, especially when the pitcher's pitching with runners on base. I love how it quickens the meter to reflect not being able to pitch from the full windup.

It seems that doubles will be much more natural in this game. In MVP, a number of times a gapper was still held to a single.

Things I don't like:

The animations aren't as smooth as MVP. Sometimes there's some odd footwork or a player resets from a throw or run too early. However, overall, the animations are great and this really doesn't detract from the game.

I still hit the ball up the middle for about 20 singles a game. I hate that. I think I will lower the amount of contact and perhaps up power just a little bit. I'm sick of (just like in MVP) hitting 3 singles per half inning without scoring any runs.

I think OF arms are a little too strong (again, like MVP). I will probably be knocking this down a notch.

Overall, the game is a lot of fun so far and definitely a step up from MVP. I'll have to see things like relief pitchers needing rest between games because that was a definite bug in last year's MVP. So far, I see no show-stopping bugs, but who knows what will be found in franchise mode with a number of games under your belt. Still, for pure fun factor, this is better than MVP.

[Eaglesfan27]

Okay, got my first game under my belt. About halfway through the game I began saying to myself, "this is fun!"

I'm playing on rookie mode (just because I hate having to guess pitches/location/etc) and I'm finding the CPU to be very competitive - my A's lost to the White Sox, 7-5.

Things I like:

It's a little easier to work the count in this game than in MVP. Of course, this is with normal pitch speed - which I think I may be upping a bit in the future.

The presentation is MUCH better than MVP. Much more commentary (and varied as well) and much more immersion. One thing I noticed in MVP is they never said the team names when giving the score every half inning - that's not a problem here.

I hit a few homeruns with just tapping the X button - no need to aim for the fences.

It's easy to make a mistake pitch, especially when the pitcher's pitching with runners on base. I love how it quickens the meter to reflect not being able to pitch from the full windup.

It seems that doubles will be much more natural in this game. In MVP, a number of times a gapper was still held to a single.

Things I don't like:

The animations aren't as smooth as MVP. Sometimes there's some odd footwork or a player resets from a throw or run too early. However, overall, the animations are great and this really doesn't detract from the game.

I still hit the ball up the middle for about 20 singles a game. I hate that. I think I will lower the amount of contact and perhaps up power just a little bit. I'm sick of (just like in MVP) hitting 3 singles per half inning without scoring any runs.

I think OF arms are a little too strong (again, like MVP). I will probably be knocking this down a notch.

Overall, the game is a lot of fun so far and definitely a step up from MVP. I'll have to see things like relief pitchers needing rest between games because that was a definite bug in last year's MVP. So far, I see no show-stopping bugs, but who knows what will be found in franchise mode with a number of games under your belt. Still, for pure fun factor, this is better than MVP.
Very nice post. I look forward to more impressions from you and Todd in the coming days (and anyone else who buys it and posts.)

[FBPro]

I've got a week off starting tomorrow and with the house all to myself I'll get into it then. Operation sports has a nice board w/ quite a few comments about the game already.

[MizzouRah]

I've got a week off starting tomorrow and with the house all to myself I'll get into it then. Operation sports has a nice board w/ quite a few comments about the game already.
Just have to read past the, "OMFG the A's light green and mustard yellow with white socks jersey is not in the game!!!"

[Logan]

I'm not going to buy the game (been playing MVP college baseball and don't even have much time for that), but I saw a commercial last night, where two times a player hit a HR and immediately threw his hands up in celebration as if he just hit the game-winner in the World Series. Please tell me this doesn't happen everytime, and it was just the way they shot the commercial.

[hukarez]

Question for those with the newer "slim" PS2's. Have the fixed the lasers in them? One of the biggest issues that I had with my old PS2 (got rid of it about 2 years ago), was that the laser in it went twice, and I'm not what you would consider a "heavy" gamer, but mainly a weekend guy. Also, I've heard of freeze up problems in some of the newer games (again, these could go hand in hand with laser issues), that require a little more disk access.I haven't really experienced any freezing problems at all since I got my slim PS2 awhile ago. I still play a ton of PS1 games on it from time to time too. Only thing was, the whole 'power adapter' recall thing that went on near the end of last year.

[Sweed]

Went and bought the game this afternoon and so far have been impressed.
Played one quick exibition game and then started a season on veteran level.

My Cubs beat the Giants 4-1 gave up only 4 hits between Zambrano, J. Williams, Ohlman, S. Williams, and Dempster. I had 9 hits, Ramirez and Barret each banged one off the RF wall for doubles the rest singles. Also able to draw one walk. I had Pierre thrown out of the game for arguing a close call at first, not sure if there was any way for me to get between him and the ump. Also had the Giants LF flat out drop an easy flyball, poor guy just hung his head after he got the ball back in.

I like the pitching meter and the way the pitch target is where you start the pitch in the zone not where you want it to end up. Learning to throw sliders and low pitches takes some getting used to. It adds a lot of tention when there is a runner on third as it's very easy to throw it in the dirt or too wide for the catcher to get it.

Getting flyballs in the outfield can be an adventure and I mean that in a good way. Size of fielding icon is dependent on the fielders skill and getting close is not good enough you need to be right on the spot. Your player will lunge to the ball if you move the stick and make awdward catches if he's not positioned correctly. I had a couple of these catches they both looked awkward but realistic. One got a comment from the booth on how he struggled with that ball and was lucky to come up with it (parapharased as I don't recall the wording).

The batting is intuitive and easy to pick up and play. At least so far guessing right on pitch and location doesn't necessarily mean HR. I guessed right a couple of times when ahead in the count only to ground out. I suppose I'll improve and if it gets too easy moving up a level will hopefully take care of it.

I thing the graphics are quite good. Reviews I read talked about the faces not being good. I thought they were recognizable and in general were good and certainly nothing to complain about. The player animations, fields, and lighting were very good. The crowd is a little repetitive but IMHO is no big deal. The rest of the presentation is the best I've seen in any sports game.
The announcing is great from the booth and the stadium PA. In between innings you see TV like views ie the pitcher walking off and avoiding the foul lines. Then the screen goes black like leaving for a commercial and then comes back to the game. It's almost scary as I was thinking how easy it would be for the game to make more money by having sponsors actually place ads in the game between innings. Actually that is about the only thing missing that let's you know your not watching a game on TV.

Great game so far. Played with no slider tweaks and things seemed realistic to me. Hopefully this no slider tweaking continues and if it becomes easy simply moving up a level fixes it. Time will tell.

[hukarez]

Man, I thought this was going for $50, and didn't realize it's for $40.

I might pick up my first sports title on the PS2 pretty soon, if this is the case. However, having browsed a few other places for reviews and impressions, some folks have brought up the issue of an 'inning ending' double play issue?

Something along the lines of having some runners on base, with 1 out, and despite ending the inning on a double play, a score is counted? http://www.operationsports.com/fofc/images/smilies/confused.gif I know it sounds strange - it's hard to translate some of those people's posts on the GameFAQs board.

I'm presuming they mean to state that before the actual '2nd out' is issued, and the runner on base crosses the plate beforehand, it still counts the run, etc...etc. I'm not too terribly familiar with the rules in instances like this, but thought I'd pick are your guys' heads with this before I made the jump and pick this up!

[Sweed]

Man, I thought this was going for $50, and didn't realize it's for $40.

I might pick up my first sports title on the PS2 pretty soon, if this is the case. However, having browsed a few other places for reviews and impressions, some folks have brought up the issue of an 'inning ending' double play issue?

Something along the lines of having some runners on base, with 1 out, and despite ending the inning on a double play, a score is counted? http://www.operationsports.com/fofc/images/smilies/confused.gif I know it sounds strange - it's hard to translate some of those people's posts on the GameFAQs board.

I'm presuming they mean to state that before the actual '2nd out' is issued, and the runner on base crosses the plate beforehand, it still counts the run, etc...etc. I'm not too terribly familiar with the rules in instances like this, but thought I'd pick are your guys' heads with this before I made the jump and pick this up!

I thought they would fix this from last year.

Loretta hit a triple off of me in the Bottom of the 9th, score was 4-4 with 1 out. So I loaed the bases to get a force out @ any base. Varitek hits a ground ball to Delgado, so I naturally have a 3-6-1 double play. Nope. The runner crossed the plate before I could get Varitek out at first. The run counted (when it shouldn't), Red Sox win 5-4.

This is fxxxxx stupid. This exact thing was one of the many glitches in last year's version. I don't care about free agent pool or bars instead of number, but gameplay glitches suck. WTF 989?!?

Positive -- it was Varitek against Reyes' arm. This was picked as the play of the game so I saw the replay. They cut the replay prior to the ball reaching the 1b glove -- meaning it did not matter what happened at first base, b/c the runner crossed the plate.

I agree, I've had inning ending double plays w/ the bases loaded in prior innings where the run doesn't count, but the bottom of the 9th is a whole different story. This was also the case in last year's MLB 2006.

just a warning to all you out there -- throw the ball home!


The two quotes from gamefaqs are this guy's posts and I'm not sure if he knows what he's talking about or not. I think what happened is the runner beat the throw at first on a bang-bang play and so the run scored. He says that's not what happened because it went in as the play of the game and the replay cut off when the run scored and so you don't see the throw at first. According to him that is because the run scored so the throw didn't matter. I think it cut off because the run did score and the replay already "knows" that the runner beats the play at first so the game is over. Which also is the reason it is the play of the game ie because it scored the winning run in the bottom of the 9th.

Of course I could be wrong and will watch for it. But others there said they have ended games and innings on dp's without the run scoring. They also say they have read posts at operation sports that agree that the run does not score.

Keep in mind this is the only post I could find where someone claimed this happens. I still think it goes back to he thinks he threw the guy out but didn't, lost, got pissed, and then whined on the boards.

Though if I'm wrong and see it I will certainly admit it and post here.

[TroyF]

For the PSP owners out there, I picked this one up for it. (I'm going to wait and get MLB2K6 for the 360 for my console baseball title)

Quick impressions after playing a few games:

1) I really wish there were a fantasy draft feature in there. Really sucks that there isn't.

2) Game plays great. As usual, with a console type title the walks are poor on both sides, but that's the way it goes.

3) Love the commentary.

4) Load times are great. I'm very happy with them.

5) The graphics are impressive. Nice stadiums, ball physics, animations and shadow effects.

6) WAY too many wild pitches/passed balls. For the love of God, I don't care how badly I pitch the ball, every pitcher shouldn't seem like a knuckleballer. I'm going to need to play with some settings there.

Anyway, solid game. I'll have some fun with this one.

Now back to the PS2 discussion :)

[hukarez]

The two quotes from gamefaqs are this guy's posts and I'm not sure if he knows what he's talking about or not. I think what happened is the runner beat the throw at first on a bang-bang play and so the run scored. He says that's not what happened because it went in as the play of the game and the replay cut off when the run scored and so you don't see the throw at first. According to him that is because the run scored so the throw didn't matter. I think it cut off because the run did score and the replay already "knows" that the runner beats the play at first so the game is over. Which also is the reason it is the play of the game ie because it scored the winning run in the bottom of the 9th.

Of course I could be wrong and will watch for it. But others there said they have ended games and innings on dp's without the run scoring. They also say they have read posts at operation sports that agree that the run does not score.

Keep in mind this is the only post I could find where someone claimed this happens. I still think it goes back to he thinks he threw the guy out but didn't, lost, got pissed, and then whined on the boards.

Though if I'm wrong and see it I will certainly admit it and post here.
I guess that was primarily my only concern. I went back to Operation Sports to check out their forums, and I have to admit, a sticky of 'bugs/glitches' thread has me a tad bit unnerved. At the same time, I noticed it was pretty general in regards to the MLB series as a whole, so I'm not quite so sure if that thread was based on past iterations of the MLB series (never played this series before).

[CraigSca]

For the PSP owners out there, I picked this one up for it. (I'm going to wait and get MLB2K6 for the 360 for my console baseball title)

Quick impressions after playing a few games:

1) I really wish there were a fantasy draft feature in there. Really sucks that there isn't.

2) Game plays great. As usual, with a console type title the walks are poor on both sides, but that's the way it goes.

3) Love the commentary.

4) Load times are great. I'm very happy with them.

5) The graphics are impressive. Nice stadiums, ball physics, animations and shadow effects.

6) WAY too many wild pitches/passed balls. For the love of God, I don't care how badly I pitch the ball, every pitcher shouldn't seem like a knuckleballer. I'm going to need to play with some settings there.

Anyway, solid game. I'll have some fun with this one.

Now back to the PS2 discussion :)
Are there any limitations to the PSP version? I've been thinking about getting a portable for my son - I may need to get this for myself :)

[Bearcat729]

I picked this up yesterday, but haven't had a lot of time to play around with it.

[dervack]

6) WAY too many wild pitches/passed balls. For the love of God, I don't care how badly I pitch the ball, every pitcher shouldn't seem like a knuckleballer. I'm going to need to play with some settings there.

Anyway, solid game. I'll have some fun with this one.

Now back to the PS2 discussion :)
That problem existed in last years version for the PSP too. Hated it.

[MizzouRah]

Make sure to max out the CPU pitch count slider as it adds some realism to both the human and CPU pitchers in terms of hitting spots.

Also, use the "wide" ump zone for more balls called.

[Philliesfan980]

Make sure to max out the CPU pitch count slider as it adds some realism to both the human and CPU pitchers in terms of hitting spots.

Also, use the "wide" ump zone for more balls called.

MizzouRah, would you mind simming a few seasons and seeing how things that us FOFCers normally like to see in games turn out? Over at OS, they've been talking about broken trades, FA, contracts, and everything else that basically makes a good career game, a good career game. I would normally just go out and pick it up, as its only $40, but considering that I'd have to shell out the cash for a PS2 as well, I might hold off.

Ultimately, I want to play manage only solo, but if those things are broken, then it might not be more than a "Season Sim".

Again, everything that I've read about the on the field stuff has been great, but the other stuff really has me concerned.

[MizzouRah]

MizzouRah, would you mind simming a few seasons and seeing how things that us FOFCers normally like to see in games turn out? Over at OS, they've been talking about broken trades, FA, contracts, and everything else that basically makes a good career game, a good career game. I would normally just go out and pick it up, as its only $40, but considering that I'd have to shell out the cash for a PS2 as well, I might hold off.

Ultimately, I want to play manage only solo, but if those things are broken, then it might not be more than a "Season Sim".

Again, everything that I've read about the on the field stuff has been great, but the other stuff really has me concerned.
I'm on call this week, but I'll see what I can do for ya. Console games have never been great "career" wise, but I'm going to play every single game, so all of that doesn't really make it by the time the next iterration comes along.

There is an option you can turn on at the start of your franchise that will allow YOU to make any and all trades for any team to coinside with RL.

BTW, spring training is so much fun.. the AI even plays it right, taking out starters after 3 or so innings, they even play in Florida (the Cardinals)

I've moved up to veteran level with the pitch count slider maxed out and I may max out the error sliders as well.

[Philliesfan980]

I'm on call this week, but I'll see what I can do for ya. Console games have never been great "career" wise, but I'm going to play every single game, so all of that doesn't really make it by the time the next iterration comes along.

There is an option you can turn on at the start of your franchise that will allow YOU to make any and all trades for any team to coinside with RL.

BTW, spring training is so much fun.. the AI even plays it right, taking out starters after 3 or so innings, they even play in Florida (the Cardinals)

I've moved up to veteran level with the pitch count slider maxed out and I may max out the error sliders as well.

Thanks in advance. Even if there's an option to set CPU rosters to all, and just let it run while your doing something else, that would give us enough numbers to clarify a few rumors that are going out there.

Perfectly understandable that console games aren't going to provide the same type of realism as OOTP type games, but my criteria is the "some semblance of reality" test.

Are contracts REALLY random? From what they are saying over at OS, they are making it seems like they are completely random. Or is it just the # of years that are random? I could live with number of years being random, but if #5 starters are being priced out at 12 million a year, and a #1 is 1 million a year, thats a pretty big issue to me.

[Bearcat729]

Well the record book feature doesn't seem to work right. One season in and the career record for HR is now 16,910 and was set by someone named Waylon Luna. Luna appears to be a double threat as he also has the career SB record of 23,311.

I know it doesn't matter, just thought it was funny.

[FBPro]

Today I began:

-a career(where you as a player try to make the majors).
AND
-a franchise(where you are the GM of the team).

I've not gotten too far into either but I like what I've seen so far, no show-stoppers yet. I'll try to post more thoughts as I play, just began my spring break so hope to get in quite a bit this week.

[Bearcat729]

Does the level you play on affect trades in a franchise mode? CPU to CPU trading seems alright but very rare(Biggest trade was Jim Thome to the O's for some catcher named Ha)

But I was messing around and was able to fleece the CPU with the following trades.

CF Tony Womack to the Angels for SP Ervin Santana
SS Rich Aurilia to the Mariners for SP Felix Hernandez
CF Desmond Parnell to the Blue Jays for SP Gustavo Chacin, and I could have had Halladay instead but he was earning too much money for me to trade for him.

Now I'm playing on Rookie level when I play my games, but still to trade junk, junk, and more junk for three top young starting pitchers does seem odd.

[FBPro]

Not really done anything with trades so far.

[Eaglesfan27]

FWIW, Gamespot gave the game a 9.0. I believe that is their highest review of a sports game in the last year. However, I don't get the sense that they really examined the career mode in long term depth.

[CraigSca]

Played my first "season" game - Tampa at Baltimore. Rodrigo Lopez had a shutout through 6, but so did Scott Kazmir. I don't know what it is with me playing console games, but my immediate thoughts are, "ok, everyone's going to be pitching shutouts now." Not the case as both pitchers began to tire and the bullpens had to do their work. I scored a few runs and brought in new closer Chris Ray to protect a 4-3 lead in the 9th. Of course I give up a two-run double with two outs and an insurance run as well. Down 6-4, we get a run back, but that's the way it ends - a 6-5 loss. A LOT of fun (again).

I have a Friday night WoW group (with my wife) and a friend. She was hoping it would end early to get some sleep and I was hoping it would end early so I could finish this game :).

Todd - isn't the "wide" ump zone causing more strikes to be called? I would think calling the game "tight" would cause more balls.

Like someone mentioned earlier, I love the fact that you're pitching to a spot in the strike zone and then the breaking ball breaks from that spot. Took a while for Rodrigo Lopez to get his curve ball moving, but once he did it was lights-out.

Just a heck of a lot of fun to actually play the games, and thus I won't run into any of the franchise mode issues that people have talked about here. Though franchise interests me, I don't have enough patience to sim multiple seasons nor do I trust the AI to let my team to play without me :).

[CraigSca]

dola

does anyone know what you have to do in order to unlock the locked teams?

[CraigSca]

double dola

Can someone explain to me how MLB2k6 has the "exclusive" MLB license this year, yet MLB06: The Show has all the players and teams? If this is the case, then how come EA had to go the college route?

[FBPro]

double dola

Can someone explain to me how MLB2k6 has the "exclusive" MLB license this year, yet MLB06: The Show has all the players and teams? If this is the case, then how come EA had to go the college route?
Good question, no clue.

[Philliesfan980]

Great question on the MLB exclusive license issue. Maybe 2K sports "sublet" the license? If thats the case, really disappointing that EA didn't step up and pay some cash to get MVP out this year.

Good to hear more positive comments about the "on the field" experience. The more I think about it, I might just get this to play out a 162 game season. By the time I finish that up, NCAA should be into its 1st or 2nd month, and I'll be engrossed with that. How many times do we really get into franchise mode anyway with console games.

[BigDPW]

MLB2K has the third party game rights... There are still no restrictions on 1st party developers signing deals with MLB... Nintendo, 989, Microsoft, etc...

[Sweed]

double dola

Can someone explain to me how MLB2k6 has the "exclusive" MLB license this year, yet MLB06: The Show has all the players and teams? If this is the case, then how come EA had to go the college route?

Not sure if I'm saying this correctly but it goes something like this. Take Two has the "3rd party exclusive rights". What this means is if you make the system
that the game will be played on you can still obtain a mlb license. So, Sony or Microsoft can make a mlb game since they make the playstation and xbox. EA of course doesn't make hardware, only software so they are kept out of the mix.

This is my understanding of it, I'm sure somebody else could explain it better in detail but that is the jist of it.

[CraigSca]

Ah - so MLB "The Show" is made by Sony (989?) and therefore able to get their own license. Thanks.

[Sweed]

Played my first "season" game - Tampa at Baltimore. Rodrigo Lopez had a shutout through 6, but so did Scott Kazmir. I don't know what it is with me playing console games, but my immediate thoughts are, "ok, everyone's going to be pitching shutouts now." Not the case as both pitchers began to tire and the bullpens had to do their work. I scored a few runs and brought in new closer Chris Ray to protect a 4-3 lead in the 9th. Of course I give up a two-run double with two outs and an insurance run as well. Down 6-4, we get a run back, but that's the way it ends - a 6-5 loss. A LOT of fun (again).

I have a Friday night WoW group (with my wife) and a friend. She was hoping it would end early to get some sleep and I was hoping it would end early so I could finish this game :).

Todd - isn't the "wide" ump zone causing more strikes to be called? I would think calling the game "tight" would cause more balls.

Like someone mentioned earlier, I love the fact that you're pitching to a spot in the strike zone and then the breaking ball breaks from that spot. Took a while for Rodrigo Lopez to get his curve ball moving, but once he did it was lights-out.

Just a heck of a lot of fun to actually play the games, and thus I won't run into any of the franchise mode issues that people have talked about here. Though franchise interests me, I don't have enough patience to sim multiple seasons nor do I trust the AI to let my team to play without me :).

I'm playing on "season" mode also and leaving my "franchise mode" gaming to ootp like always. Playing out the games on the console to me is where the fun is at and this game is going to do a good job of that.

I love getting the breaking balls to work. Starting them outside the zone and bringing them in is very realistic. Or starting the slider at the middle of the plate to see the batter be fooled and swing when the ball is 6 inches off the corner is gold. Or a good curve just falling off the table or droping into the top of the zone. I could go on but you get the picture.

I've wondered about the "tight" "wide" umpire and how it would affect the game. I've only played with wide and have had many pitches that are in the strike zone, at least by the graph, called balls. I'll probably try the tight for a game just to see what the difference is.

I have played 4 spring games now and one exibition when I first opened the box. Straight veteren level with no slider adjustments seem to be giving me a very realistic game. Lot's of variance to the scores and the pitchers "seem" to really have different skill levels. That is some are very easy to hit while others are very hard.

As I posted before I love the presentation but am finding if you sit and watch all the stuff games can take quite a while to play. I think for the rest of spring I'll turn them down and then in regular season have them on for one game of each series. Cool to think that turning off this stuff hurts the experience instead of helping it. Total opposite of most games I've played.

[CraigSca]

Yeah, it's funny. The between-pitch animations are so realistic, I find myself compelled to watch them and only then realize the game is taking almost as long to play as a RL baseball game. I have to "remind" myself as well to click the button to get on with it (so I can get more than one game in), but it's so tempting sometimes to just play it as is. I do LOVE when an inning ends and an animation starts like the runner out at first taking off his shin guard and talking to the first base coach while the broadcasters and the on-screen score graphics look and sound EXACTLY like you're watching a RL broadcast. Flippin' unreal.

I started my season after simming all the spring training games (I'm surprised you can't change the amount of grapefruit league games), but I may start over again and just play a few of them, again just to get more immersed (and because it's so fun).

[Eaglesfan27]

Yeah, that was the great think about how 2ksports did the exclusive license. They really only screwed over EAsports and it was clearly a very directed move against EAsports. They didn't stop any of the 1st party makers from making their own games and probably got their license for less money than if they went for total exclusivity.

[MizzouRah]

Gamespot gives the game a 9.0.

http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/sports/mlb06theshow/review.html?page=1&q=&q=&q=

[jbmagic]

Gamespot gives the game a 9.0.

http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/sports/mlb06theshow/review.html?page=1&q=&q=&q=


http://www.operationsports.com/fofc/showpost.php?p=1072801&postcount=64


FWIW, Gamespot gave the game a 9.0. I believe that is their highest review of a sports game in the last year. However, I don't get the sense that they really examined the career mode in long term depth.

[hukarez]

Huh? http://www.operationsports.com/fofc/images/smilies/confused.gif

[ShaefIllini]

Gamespot gives the game a 9.0.

http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/sports/mlb06theshow/review.html?page=1&q=&q=&q=

Typical Mizzou, always a step slow. :D

[MizzouRah]

Typical Mizzou, always a step slow. :D
jb must be one of the new mods...

[MizzouRah]

Spring Training is over and I open up the season in Philly to take on the Phillies.

Playing on veteran, "wide" ump consistancy, pitch count slider maxed out and errors for both +2.

Game was a blast, I lost 8 to 4, here's the line:

STL 4 15 0
PHI 8 13 0

Carpenter had 7 k's but gave up a triple, had a wild pitch, and then Utley came up and went yard, OUCH! Fun game though.. Edmonds lost one in the sunlight, J Rod was thrown out of the game for arguing a close call at first, they did the replay and he was just out, correct call. The bell rang on the two Philly HR's. Philly's CF robbed a bomb by Rolen.. it was just a great game of baseball. This game has it all, presentation, top notch pbp, and on veteran, the game is just my speed as I only have to guess "4" zones. Ok, I'm old. :)

I still need about 25 games under my belt for a better overall observation about the gameplay, but for now it's better than HH 2002 was. In fact, it's time for Mulder to take the mound and even up our record.

Oh also there's gametime decisions ( I haven't had one yet ) but I've read before certain games you are presented with a problem ( Mulder's shoulder is sore ) and you have to make a choice to rest him or let him pitch... should be fun to see this in action.

[ice4277]

I still need about 25 games under my belt for a better overall observation about the gameplay, but for now it's better than HH 2002 was.
If you are saying that after 25 games, I will purchase, for sure.

[Fonzie]

Dammit. Between "The Show" and Guitar Hero I may finally have to break down and get a PS2.

Curse you people!

[MizzouRah]

If you are saying that after 25 games, I will purchase, for sure.
Mulder came out pitching, but ran into a bad inning and I'm now 0-2 to start the season.

STL 3 11 1
PHI 4 8 0

I think Philly is over using their RP (#44, I forget his name), as he's been in both games and for 2-3 innings, but they're 2-0 so I won't say much else. :)

Eckstein has a terrible arm though and a speedy runner always has a chance when a ball is hit to short.

[ShaefIllini]

I see it took you 26 hits for 7 runs, do you see any imbalance between singles and extra-base hits?

[MizzouRah]

I see it took you 26 hits for 7 runs, do you see any imbalance between singles and extra-base hits?
Not really, well maybe a tad. BUT.. it's hard for me to pick up a hard hit ball to the outfield.. meaning is he going to catch it or not? That screws up my baserunning sometimes.

I do know the Phillies CF catches just about everything hit to CF. Sheesh.. :) I've had some great blasts and out of nowhere he snags them.. can you say, double play as my guy is running home from second base.

[Bearcat729]

I have seen some odd free agent signings. Players like Travis Hafner will take 1 year contracts for 2 million over longer deals.

[Sweed]

Played my first two reg season games as the Cubs today. Playing default veteran level with the wide umpire. Doing "season" mode not GM since I play 'em all out and won't get in more than one season anyway. For spring training though I only went through my rotation once to see everyone pitch. I had to skip the rest as I was anxious to get started for real.

First two games at Cinncinati with a day off between them. Zambrano pitching for me and Milton for the Reds. Anyway first two innings scoreless when Barret comes up to lead off the third and drills a HR to left, 1-0 Cubs. Then Cedeno comes up and promptly gets hit by a pitch. I have to say it almost looked intentional, it was up and in. Maybe a little frustration after Barret's HR? Pierre ends up getting on and then Lee unloads a 3 run job followed by Ramirez with a dinger of his own. Milton's confidence meter was empty and while he got through the third they took him out in the fourth. Seemed like the whole Reds team lost it after that and it was a hit parade with the score ending up 9-3.

Game 2 Prior vs Harang. This time Cin gets a good start with a 2 run bomb by Lopez. Prior gets things back under control but with a lot of pitches thrown he gives up a run in the 5th, we're down 3-0. Got a couple back in the 6th when N. Perez, ph for Prior, and Pierre get on and Ramirez doubles them home. Score now 3-2 and we're back in the game. Ohman comes it to pitch the 6th and promptly gives up a dinger to Dunn and hits to Griffey and Pena. Reds end up scoring 2 to make it 5-2. Move on to the top of the 9th with two on and Jacque Jones at the plate. Jones gets ahead in the count and looks for the Reds closer to try to slip a slider in under his hands. Gets the pitch but is out in front and bombs it about 400 feet foul. Flies out on the next pitch followed by a Barret flyball to end the game at 5-2.

Two very good games, each with a different feel. I was really afraid after the first game that I had caught up with the hitting but the second game proved that untrue. Only two games but doubles haven't been lacking as I hit 4 in the two games. Have to like the one Ramirez hit. Just like real life hammers it to the gap and has to slide into second on a play that is a lot closer than it should be. While D. Lee hit one to about the same place and was standing on
second when the throw got there.

One impression I have gotten is that there seems to be a kind of realistic momentem in the pitching. In Zambrano's game it seemed like he just got on a roll. His confidence was up, he kept throwing pitches to the same spots and so it seemed the ump became more likely to give him the benefit of the doubt calling strikes.

In the same game Milton's confidence was shot and the ball seemed to be all over the strike zone, no consistency. And at least it seemed to me that this resulted in him not getting many close calls and an increase in just plain bad calls. Then again maybe it was just my imagination. It will be something I watch as my season progresses.

So the game still impresses. I was afraid it might not after MVP last year but that worry is now gone.

Tons of little things seem to be done right in the game. When the ball hits the wall the caroms are as real as I've seen. Bunting looks great, I've pushed the ball past the pitcher, had them run down the line and die, bouncers in front of the plate, and a little pop up that the catcher had to dive for going towards the mound. Catchers blocking balls in the dirt look very cool when you are using the pitcher view. I had my batt shatter and the barrel almost made it to second base.

Only played seven games so maybe down the line I'll see something I that bothers me. But so far it's as good a video baseball game as I've ever played.

[MizzouRah]

Finally won my first game of the seaon as the Phillies went for the sweep. It's the little things like Pujols coming up to bat in the 2nd inning and the annoucers say, "Albert is in the top 10 so far this season in batting average" I can't wait to hear more of this as the season goes on, really cool.

Marquis had it going tonight as we win 2-0 behind 8 innings of good pitching and excellent defense. You could really tell Taguchi was out in LF this game as his speed shows. I only struck out one batter with Marquis, so it was nice to only allow 6 hits and the rest were defensive plays. Veteran provides just enough of a hitting challenge for my console skills. :)

Now it's on to Chi-town for a series vs the Cubbies.

I was also nice to see someone like Aaron Miles go yard on a perfectally called fastball down low - I guess it right.. both location and pitch type and when the crosshairs lit up, I smashed it. The announcers said, "Miles won't hit many more of these, but he knew exactly what was coming this time". I love the pbp this game has.

I'm moving errors up to +4 for both CPU and Human for the next series.. everything else seems fine for now.

[CraigSca]

I'm not seeing an issue with doubles to HRs ratio (it's about 10 to 5 for me), though I am seeing a lot of singles. I'm pushing down contact to the lowest number for me and I hiked errors to max minus one for both, though I still see almost zilcho errors.

One thing I thought was really cool - had a runner on third and I hit a slow grounder to first. The CPU first baseman tried to cut off the run at home, but he was safe. Since the batter was fast, he didn't even attempt the throw to first (it would have been futile anyway). The cool part, however, is that I immediately checked the boxscore - and the batter gained an additional bat, but no hit, so it was scored correctly as a FC. I was really pleased with that and surprised that the game was that "smart".

[Eaglesfan27]

Has anyone seen a problem with double plays a run scoring when it shouldn't that was mentioned earlier in the thread? If not, I've heard enough good things to take the plunge on this sometime this week.

[MizzouRah]

Has anyone seen a problem with double plays a run scoring when it shouldn't that was mentioned earlier in the thread? If not, I've heard enough good things to take the plunge on this sometime this week.
I'll keep an eye on it tonight.

I do know the fantasy draft is bad.. at least that's what I heard.

[Sweed]

Has anyone seen a problem with double plays a run scoring when it shouldn't that was mentioned earlier in the thread? If not, I've heard enough good things to take the plunge on this sometime this week.

I had one DP to end an inning in my last game with a runner on third. No problem, the run did not score. I will keep watching though until I've seen a few
of theim.

[Sweed]

Just finished the first game of a 3 game set vs the Cards at Wrigley. The Cards turned a DP on me with the bases loaded and one out, no run scored.

Did end up winning 7-6 on a Ramirez walk off homer. Ramirez rounded first pumping his fist and was met by the Cubs bench at the plate. Looper, who was pitching for the Cards went into the dugout and fired his glove off the back wall then sat down and put his head in his hands. Pretty cool.

The game just oozes atmosphere. As MizzouRah mentioned you get many comments from the booth that are related to what is happening in the current season. I too am looking forward to seeing how this developes over a season or if it just becomes repetitive.

[CamEdwards]

I'm still playing MVP 2005, and still enjoying it, but this thread is tempting me to buy the game.

[Icy]

I'm still playing MVP 2005, and still enjoying it, but this thread is tempting me to buy the game.Even more, it's tempting me to buy a console.

[MizzouRah]

Just finished the first game of a 3 game set vs the Cards at Wrigley. The Cards turned a DP on me with the bases loaded and one out, no run scored.

Did end up winning 7-6 on a Ramirez walk off homer. Ramirez rounded first pumping his fist and was met by the Cubs bench at the plate. Looper, who was pitching for the Cards went into the dugout and fired his glove off the back wall then sat down and put his head in his hands. Pretty cool.

The game just oozes atmosphere. As MizzouRah mentioned you get many comments from the booth that are related to what is happening in the current season. I too am looking forward to seeing how this developes over a season or if it just becomes repetitive.
Friggin Cubs! ;)

Getting ready to play them myself. Soupy goes to the hill.

So far, the commentary is anything but repetitive, but hey I've only played like 15 games including spring training.

[CraigSca]

I had one DP to end an inning in my last game with a runner on third. No problem, the run did not score. I will keep watching though until I've seen a few
of theim.
Same here - I had a double play end an inning and the runner didn't score either.

Oddly enough I played my last game on my HDTV (I normally play on our 32-inch CRT circa 1995) and the timing was completely different. I had little or no time to react to pitches as well as tap the X button to set up my release point while pitching. Bruce Chen unfortunately had to bear the brunt of it, giving up 4 runs in the first inning (I was throwing the ball all over the place). I even changed controllers thinking it was that. Needless to say, I won't be playing on my big TV anymore. Makes no sense to me, unless I accidentally changed a slider somehwhere (all i did there was change if to 16:9 ratio - and then changed it back when I couldn't pitch worth a lick).

Would love to play again on my 32", but that's in the bedroom and the wife is asleep now. I might need to get a small, lame CRT TV just for this - OR, get a PSP. Hmm....

[MizzouRah]

I would have loved to keep my psp, but man did that thing hurt my eyes after playing last year's MLB.. or any game for that matter. Too bad, because I've read it's just as good on the psp.

[Logan]

Same here - I had a double play end an inning and the runner didn't score either.

Oddly enough I played my last game on my HDTV (I normally play on our 32-inch CRT circa 1995) and the timing was completely different. I had little or no time to react to pitches as well as tap the X button to set up my release point while pitching. Bruce Chen unfortunately had to bear the brunt of it, giving up 4 runs in the first inning (I was throwing the ball all over the place). I even changed controllers thinking it was that. Needless to say, I won't be playing on my big TV anymore. Makes no sense to me, unless I accidentally changed a slider somehwhere (all i did there was change if to 16:9 ratio - and then changed it back when I couldn't pitch worth a lick).

Would love to play again on my 32", but that's in the bedroom and the wife is asleep now. I might need to get a small, lame CRT TV just for this - OR, get a PSP. Hmm....

Last year, I started out playing MVP 2005 on the 42" flat screen TV in the apartment I shared with some guys at school. When I moved back home, and started playing on my 20" regular TV, it was a major adjustment. So I think if you played some more games on the good screen, it'll come back to you.

[CraigSca]

Thanks, Logan. I just find it weird. On the 32" I can relax and watch the incoming pitch and adjust accordingly. On the big guy, I have to swing as it comes out of the pitcher's hand. When I'm pitching on the big screen, it seems like I almost need to double-tap the X button to get the release point right. I'll be mixing up my play time - so to need to re-adjust 50% of the time just isn't going to cut it.

How much are crappy TVs these days, anyway? I guess less expensive than a PSP :( - ha.

[CraigSca]

I would have loved to keep my psp, but man did that thing hurt my eyes after playing last year's MLB.. or any game for that matter. Too bad, because I've read it's just as good on the psp.
Todd - do you have a history of having your eyes hurt when reading small print, or was this the first time you were ever effected in such a way?

I've never had my eyes hurt when looking at something small, so I'm just trying to get a gauge if this was something new for you (and something for me to worry about) or something that happens often.

Thanks!

[Eaglesfan27]

Todd - do you have a history of having your eyes hurt when reading small print, or was this the first time you were ever effected in such a way?

I've never had my eyes hurt when looking at something small, so I'm just trying to get a gauge if this was something new for you (and something for me to worry about) or something that happens often.

Thanks!
I never had a problem with small print, but MVP on the PSP hurt my eyes.

I really enjoy my PSP, but I hardly play any action games on it (except for occasionally Madden.) Mostly, I play RPG's and strategy games on it.

[CraigSca]

I just remembered, we have slightly damaged 27" TV in the basement. No way I cna justify a PSP. Oh well...

[Sweed]

Friggin Cubs! ;)

Getting ready to play them myself. Soupy goes to the hill.

So far, the commentary is anything but repetitive, but hey I've only played like 15 games including spring training.


You'll be glad to know I droped the second game 10-5. Hit a couple of gappers that Edmonds ran down easily. The speed of the individual players is very accurate from the 10 or so games I have played. I had Pierre on second and Ramirez on first with two outs. Jones hit a hard grounder to Eckstein that went through his legs. Runners were going hard with the two outs and Pierre of course scored easily. Ramirez seeing the ball go through Eckstein decided to go to third. Bigbie was charging in from LF picked up the ball and threw Aramis out by 20 feet.

My only real complaint is the auto-baserunning feature. I set my runners on AI control asI have always had a hard time with almost all of these baseball games when I get more than one runner on. I don't mind as I just go with the idea that my basecoaches are doing the job. The problem is that with auto-running on the manual steal sign doesn't seem to work. Pierre has attempted a couple of steals that the AI must have sent him on. But if I hit the L2+(base icon) I get nothing. A little disappointing but I'll live.

[Sweed]

Same here - I had a double play end an inning and the runner didn't score either.

Oddly enough I played my last game on my HDTV (I normally play on our 32-inch CRT circa 1995) and the timing was completely different. I had little or no time to react to pitches as well as tap the X button to set up my release point while pitching. Bruce Chen unfortunately had to bear the brunt of it, giving up 4 runs in the first inning (I was throwing the ball all over the place). I even changed controllers thinking it was that. Needless to say, I won't be playing on my big TV anymore. Makes no sense to me, unless I accidentally changed a slider somehwhere (all i did there was change if to 16:9 ratio - and then changed it back when I couldn't pitch worth a lick).

Would love to play again on my 32", but that's in the bedroom and the wife is asleep now. I might need to get a small, lame CRT TV just for this - OR, get a PSP. Hmm....


I have a 28 inch wide screen hdtv with the regular type picture tube in the basement that I play on, at the 16:9 ratio, and haven't had this problem. I haven't tried it on the 52 inch upstairs. That one is rear projection and games are not allowed near it.

[MizzouRah]

Todd - do you have a history of having your eyes hurt when reading small print, or was this the first time you were ever effected in such a way?

I've never had my eyes hurt when looking at something small, so I'm just trying to get a gauge if this was something new for you (and something for me to worry about) or something that happens often.

Thanks!
Like EF, it was just on the psp and the reason I got rid of it.

Sweed,

Actually, this is the first game I control the runners manually.. for some reason it's easy for me.

What level and settings do you play with? Also, do you use the guess pitch feature?

I know when I played the Phillies, their CF could snag just about anything.. it was great to see the different abilities come into play.. this game does so much right!

[Sweed]

Like EF, it was just on the psp and the reason I got rid of it.

Sweed,

Actually, this is the first game I control the runners manually.. for some reason it's easy for me.

What level and settings do you play with? Also, do you use the guess pitch feature?

I know when I played the Phillies, their CF could snag just about anything.. it was great to see the different abilities come into play.. this game does so much right!

I play on default veteran now. I do use the guess pitch feature but limit myself to what I consider realistic situations. Down 0-2 I'll just be protecting while ahead I may take a chance and guess. Certainly haven't found it to be an automatic HR or even a hit when I am right. Have had several groundball outs or hard hit balls that just fall in. However if Lee or Ramirez guess right the chances do go up :) but they are also just as likely to drive one to the gap.

In my 4 games IIRC Lee has 4 dingers and Ramirez 3 nobody else has more than 1. I've wondered if I'm going to have to tweak it a little but will wait a few more games before deciding. As a comparison Pujols already has 5 HR's and I believe St Louis has played 5 games but then Edmonds only has 1 and Rolen 2.

I may go to controling the runners when I have just one on base and let the AI do it with multiples. It's just so many times I'll either want to advance only the lead runner and get the back one thrown out or only want to stop the rear runner and send him back to first and end up sending the runner that was going to score easily from second back to third. lol

[Icy]

Off topic for the MVP 05 PC players like me, there is a mod for the 06 incoming season that can be found at http://www.mvpmods.com/


After months of development, the modding crew at MVPMods.com have released a massive overhaul of the PC version of MVP Baseball 2005. MVP '06: Major League Baseball features updates of nearly everything that is allowed to be modded in the game.

This means, updated stadiums, uniforms, in-game overlays, rosters, teams, aww to heck with it, here's what this baby has:

* 58 updated stadiums (various modders #1)
* 897 updated cyberfaces (various modders #2)
* The best most up to date rosters (Totte)
* 1363 audio updates INCLUDING some new team audios (Total Audio+ HORY)
* 3277 portrait upgrades (Total Portraits HORY)
* 21 generic face upgrades (Uncle Mo)
* 448 uniform upgrades (mainly Mosser plus #3)
* 63 Loading screens (should be updated again before the final version)
* 2006 schedule (Hory)
* multiple backgrounds (some will be reworked before the final version)
* NEW datafile (MaddiesDaddy) contains #4
* NEW Overlay (Trues)
* 58 stadium select screens
* updated LOC files

This major update allows more than 6000 updates and upgrades, and has been a symbol of our hard work for the MVP Baseball community. Enjoy it, as it is 100% free.

[MizzouRah]

I play on default veteran now. I do use the guess pitch feature but limit myself to what I consider realistic situations. Down 0-2 I'll just be protecting while ahead I may take a chance and guess. Certainly haven't found it to be an automatic HR or even a hit when I am right. Have had several groundball outs or hard hit balls that just fall in. However if Lee or Ramirez guess right the chances do go up :) but they are also just as likely to drive one to the gap.

In my 4 games IIRC Lee has 4 dingers and Ramirez 3 nobody else has more than 1. I've wondered if I'm going to have to tweak it a little but will wait a few more games before deciding. As a comparison Pujols already has 5 HR's and I believe St Louis has played 5 games but then Edmonds only has 1 and Rolen 2.

I may go to controling the runners when I have just one on base and let the AI do it with multiples. It's just so many times I'll either want to advance only the lead runner and get the back one thrown out or only want to stop the rear runner and send him back to first and end up sending the runner that was going to score easily from second back to third. lol
I'm on veteran as well. It's the perfect level for my hitting non-expertise. :)

I use the guess pitch feature as well, but I'm thinking about turning the strikezone and hot/cold zones off and I've heard it allows you to hear the correct pitch guess, but does not show the red circle of where the ball is going on a correct location guess.

[CraigSca]

Why did you guys abandon rookie hitting - too many singles? I haven't played in days due to a hectic schedule - man, I miss playing! :(

[Eaglesfan27]

Like EF, it was just on the psp and the reason I got rid of it.

Sweed,

Actually, this is the first game I control the runners manually.. for some reason it's easy for me.

What level and settings do you play with? Also, do you use the guess pitch feature?

I know when I played the Phillies, their CF could snag just about anything.. it was great to see the different abilities come into play.. this game does so much right!
Sheesh. Hearing about player specific fielding really makes me want this game..

[21C]

You want this game? It's worse for me since this isn't available in Australia and importing it won't work because of the different zone we're in.

[Izulde]

I've been playing all night long. My pitcher is doing damn good for an 18 year old pitching for AAA Charlotte... He's by and large a power pitcher that relies on his 4 seam fastball, though his sinker isn't too bad and he's working on developing his splitter as well.

I was finally settling into a groove and building up my endurance to where I was getting good outings for the most part, when I got taken out of a game because of injury.

My worst fears were realized when I went to Advance:

You have sustained an injury: Dislocated Shoulder
Due to the severity of the injury you have been placed on the 60 day DL :(

[Izulde]

dola,

I'm out 2-3 months :(

[Icy]

Izulde, how good is the "ITP like" part? can you just manage your player in the games and watch the computer manage your team mates? do you deal with sponsors, agent etc? are you promoted/demoted from/to the minors?

I liked the Madden superstar or whatever it was named idea, but i lost all my interest when i saw that i had also to manage the deep charts and also to play all the other players and not only when my guy was on the field. I want to be one person not a whole team.

[Izulde]

It gets worse... my first appearance back they made me the fucking closer... and I blew the save.

[Izulde]

Izulde, how good is the "ITP like" part? can you just manage your player in the games and watch the computer manage your team mates? do you deal with sponsors, agent etc? are you promoted/demoted from/to the minors?

I liked the Madden superstar or whatever it was named idea, but i lost all my interest when i saw that i had also to manage the deep charts and also to play all the other players and not only when my guy was on the field. I want to be one person not a whole team.

To me it's what ITP should have been. You can just advance to your player's next appearance or AB. Occasionally the game will advance you to an AB or inning that you're not pitching, but it's pretty obvious to tell when that happens, and then you just go to Advance to Next AB or Appearance.

You can argue for promotion level or for lineup/rotation spot, but I haven't tried those out yet, as I'm fine being the #2 starter. It appears they've made me closer though, and if they have I'm going to bitch to my manager.

You don't control the team at all when you're in Career Mode; the CPU handles all of that.

I really like it quite a lot.

Oh, turn fielding assist and throwing on to automatic, or you will have to control everyone in the field. That's the only knock on it thus far. :)

[Izulde]

dola,

I have to add, after thinking on more, when I was a position player, it wasn't nearly as much fun as it was being a pitcher.

The Career Mode for a pitcher in this game is brilliant.

For a hitter, thus far it's been meh.

[Icy]

Ok thanks a lot Izulde, that comment "To me it's what ITP should have been" was what i wanted to read. I just emailed one online shop that sells consoles with the mod included to play import games. Also do you guys know any online shop to purchase this game that ships to Europe? (or even better if it's an european shop) else maybe i'll need any of you to do me the big favour of purchasing it and shipping it to me. I'll beg you all if needed :)

Edited: I guess the game is not available for XBOX right?

[FBPro]

PS2/PSP only.

[MizzouRah]

Damn I can't wait until this weekend so I can play some more games, I've been on call all week = no time to play. :(

The only gripe I've had thus far is it's hard to tell if the CPU OF is going to catch a long pop fly.

[Izulde]

Thanks to another injury, I missed the AAA playoffs :(

My contract ran out as I was on a one-year deal.

Four offers this offseason:
White Sox: 3 years for 111k total
Yankees: 2 years for 88k total
Mariners: 1 year for 30k (What the White Sox offered me last year)
Cubs: 2 years for 82k total

Hahahaha! Yeah right like I'm going to play for the Flubbies.

The White Sox are my favourite team, but that shorter contract and more money from the Yankees sure looks tempting... what to do, what to do.

[Philliesfan980]

Thanks to another injury, I missed the AAA playoffs :(

My contract ran out as I was on a one-year deal.

Four offers this offseason:
White Sox: 3 years for 111k total
Yankees: 2 years for 88k total
Mariners: 1 year for 30k (What the White Sox offered me last year)
Cubs: 2 years for 82k total

Hahahaha! Yeah right like I'm going to play for the Flubbies.

The White Sox are my favourite team, but that shorter contract and more money from the Yankees sure looks tempting... what to do, what to do.

Wow, so you actually get to play in the minors too? Thats pretty neat.

Edit: Wow, I need to learn to read the thread before asking stupid questions.

[SegRat]

Damn you Izulde, you just made me spend money I wasnt planning on spending.

[MizzouRah]

This game just might be the greatest all around baseball experience I've ever had the joy to play.

I'm 1-2 on the season and heading into Chicago for the Cubs home opener. The Cubs start the home hero, Kerry Wood. I counter with Jeff Suppan who I have major confidence pitching in Chicago.

The game just feels like a rivarly game, the atmostphere is great... the fans spout various sayings, which really add to the experience.

Kerry's throwing gas and strikes out Eckstein. Encarnation is enjoying the 2nd spot and hits a mistake slider into the gap for a double. Edmonds strikes out, but Pujols battles and hits a 3-2 pitch through SS and 2B for a single and a 1-0 lead. Bottom of the 1st and the Cubbies battle back to tie the game 1-1. Suppan is hitting his spots though. The game stays 1-1 until the 5th inning and I take the lead 5-1 on some key hits. Wood has 7 K's, but in the top of the 6th, Edmonds hits a 2 run bomb and the Cardinals are now leading 7-1. The announcer said something like, "The Cardinals are adding insult to injury as Edmonds tees off on a Kerry Wood fastball." Our bullpen is a bit shaky, but we manage a 7-2 victory and the first game of the series. Up next Ponson makes his Cardinal debut vs Maddux. Can't wait until tomorrow. :)

The line score was:
STL 7 15 0
CHI 2 10 1

I'm also on veteran using guess pitch and the only slider I use is the pitch count maxed out.

Sometimes games are not measured in longevity, but how fun just one game can be. This game catches the whole baseball game experience like no other. MVP is a fun game, but it's nowhere close in presentation, announcing, or atmostphere. Pitching is fun, hitting is fun, playing the field.. although a jorney.. is fun, and for the first time I really like controlling my runners.

Great game, kudos to SCEA and the MLB Team.

[Philliesfan980]

This game just might be the greatest all around baseball experience I've ever had the joy to play.

I'm 1-2 on the season and heading into Chicago for the Cubs home opener. The Cubs start the home hero, Kerry Wood. I counter with Jeff Suppan who I have major confidence pitching in Chicago.

The game just feels like a rivarly game, the atmostphere is great... the fans spout various sayings, which really add to the experience.

Kerry's throwing gas and strikes out Eckstein. Encarnation is enjoying the 2nd spot and hits a mistake slider into the gap for a double. Edmonds strikes out, but Pujols battles and hits a 3-2 pitch through SS and 2B for a single and a 1-0 lead. Bottom of the 1st and the Cubbies battle back to tie the game 1-1. Suppan is hitting his spots though. The game stays 1-1 until the 5th inning and I take the lead 5-1 on some key hits. Wood has 7 K's, but in the top of the 6th, Edmonds hits a 2 run bomb and the Cardinals are now leading 7-1. The announcer said something like, "The Cardinals are adding insult to injury as Edmonds tees off on a Kerry Wood fastball." Our bullpen is a bit shaky, but we manage a 7-2 victory and the first game of the series. Up next Ponson makes his Cardinal debut vs Maddux. Can't wait until tomorrow. :)

The line score was:
STL 7 15 0
CHI 2 10 1

I'm also on veteran using guess pitch and the only slider I use is the pitch count maxed out.

Great game, kudos to SCEA and the MLB Team.


Glad your having a good time! Between the Season Mode and create a player, I might have to get this after all! Is bullpen fatigue handled well?

[SackAttack]

I haven't found the sliders yet. I do, however, have a few problems with the game so far.

[MizzouRah]

I haven't found the sliders yet. I do, however, have a few problems with the game so far.
Do tell. I know some say there is a glitch where the ball goes thorough the fielder, but I've only seen that happen once in 10+ games. I also don't like all the caught pop flies in the OF with the players back to the ball. Other than a few things like that, the game has been solid.

[SackAttack]

Do tell. I know some say there is a glitch where the ball goes thorough the fielder, but I've only seen that happen once in 10+ games. I also don't like all the caught pop flies in the OF with the players back to the ball. Other than a few things like that, the game has been solid.

I had a ball bounce through Nomar's chest. Baserunners seem a little fast, as I saw three triples in one game in Vero Beach.

Just a couple others to add to what I talked about with you in IM.

[CraigSca]

Todd - what does maxing out the "pitch count" slider do? I couldn't find any official reference to it.

Are you hitting less singles at the veteran skill level? I'm finding that pitching is still a challenge in rookie, but I hit way too many singles. The majority of my guys are batting over .300 because of that.

[SegRat]

I picked up the PSP version and I must say that I am very very impressed.

[MizzouRah]

Todd - what does maxing out the "pitch count" slider do? I couldn't find any official reference to it.

Are you hitting less singles at the veteran skill level? I'm finding that pitching is still a challenge in rookie, but I hit way too many singles. The majority of my guys are batting over .300 because of that.
It does many things, makes you and the cpu not pitch so accurately.. meaning more pitches miss their mark, increases foul balls, and basicall allows for higher pitch counts. A developer for the game talked about it over at OS and said he plays with it at the maxed setting.

Less singles? Yes, more than rookie level.

[Bee]

dola,

I have to add, after thinking on more, when I was a position player, it wasn't nearly as much fun as it was being a pitcher.

The Career Mode for a pitcher in this game is brilliant.

For a hitter, thus far it's been meh.

What did you find lacking for the position player career mode?

I generally don't buy baseball console games, but I love the idea of ITP and if this takes that concept to a new level I'll probably pick it up. Also, if anyone can go into more detail about this aspect of the game, I would appreciate it.

[CraigSca]

I upped my skill level to veteran, but I'm still banging out too many hits. 16 vs. the Red Sox and Schilling, in a 6-5 victory. Kinda getting annoying as scoring has been rather good (about 4.8 runs per game), but my team as a whole is batting well over .300.

[MizzouRah]

Up it to AS or turn off guess pitching and increase the pitch speed slider all the way up. Veteran is still timing based and All star will take you into "zone" hitting... I'm about to go there myself soon as I don't want to turn off the guess pitch feature.

[Sweed]

I just keep seeing things in "The Show" that make me smile. Today Cubs-Cards
Hairston playing LF for my Cubs with Edmonds on 2nd, 1 out. Encarnacion (sp) smokes a ball to left Hairston turns his back to the field and takes off after it and pulls it in going into the ivy. I quickly throw to third thinking that Edmonds might try to tag up from 2nd. As the ball is getting to Ramirez I see
that Edmonds had rounded third and was now trying to retrace his steps to get back to 2nd. A simple throw from Aramis doubles him off by 50 feet:)

I don't remember ever seeing that in a console game before, very cool.

I think I'm at about the same place as MissouRah and moving up to AS. I believe that before too long the hitting at veteran will become too easy (though I'm not quite there yet).

My son will be home from college this week which should be fun. I know he'll love the game. First he'll try veteran level because that's where old Dad is at. After about a game, or two at the most, he'll be telling me how lame I am
becase hitting on vet is just way too easy. Oh to be young again and have those quick reflexes:)

[CamEdwards]

i bought this game last night. Am I correct in thinking that the only difficulty level where you just swing and hit the ball without having to guess location and type of pitch is on rookie level?

[Bearcat729]

The Mets cut me in the middle of a 5 year 100 million contract for complaining too much after they got rid of all their hitters, but in the offseason they came back and offered me a 4 year 80mil contract.

I signed with the A's 3 years for 60 mil with a player option in the last season of the contract instead.

[Sweed]

i bought this game last night. Am I correct in thinking that the only difficulty level where you just swing and hit the ball without having to guess location and type of pitch is on rookie level?

No, that's not true. You don't have to guess on any level that you play at. If you just want to watch the pitch and swing you can. The guess of location and pitch only enhance or decrease your ability to hit the ball depending on if you are right or not.

So, guess right , for lack of a better word, you get a bonus.
Guess wrong, again for lack of a better word, you get a penalty.
No guess, no bonus-no penalty.

At least that is my understanding.

[terpkristin]

For the PSP owners out there, I picked this one up for it. (I'm going to wait and get MLB2K6 for the 360 for my console baseball title)

Quick impressions after playing a few games:

1) I really wish there were a fantasy draft feature in there. Really sucks that there isn't.

2) Game plays great. As usual, with a console type title the walks are poor on both sides, but that's the way it goes.

3) Love the commentary.

4) Load times are great. I'm very happy with them.

5) The graphics are impressive. Nice stadiums, ball physics, animations and shadow effects.

6) WAY too many wild pitches/passed balls. For the love of God, I don't care how badly I pitch the ball, every pitcher shouldn't seem like a knuckleballer. I'm going to need to play with some settings there.

Anyway, solid game. I'll have some fun with this one.

Now back to the PS2 discussion :)Good to know. I was going to post and ask if anybody had the PSP version. :D I'm seriously contemplating this one and WE9 for my PSP...

/tk

[SegRat]

Good to know. I was going to post and ask if anybody had the PSP version. :D I'm seriously contemplating this one and WE9 for my PSP...

/tk

MLB The show is a must buy for the PSP IMO.

[MizzouRah]

i bought this game last night. Am I correct in thinking that the only difficulty level where you just swing and hit the ball without having to guess location and type of pitch is on rookie level?
Nope, veteran is like that as well.. at least as far as just swinging without bat placement. All star has 4 hitting zones and HOF has 9.

[CraigSca]

I already turned off guess pitching, as I prefer to just swing away.

I'm trying to find a balance here. I don't want the pitcher to pitch too fast - I'm really whiffing a lot on off-speed pitches as it is. But, if I sit on the fastball, I can usually drive it for a hit somewhere. I'd love to find a way to just cut down on my singles - would be nice if my batters swung and missed occasionally.

All in all, it's still an unbelieveable game, despite my good hitting :)

[MizzouRah]

I played my last game on veteran, pitch count slider on max and CPU pitch speed on max.

Lost 5-4 to the Cubs in a thrilling game. They had 10 hits and I had 13.. I also had 2 errors. :)

I'm happy with the hitting as long as I can see a pitchers duel against a really good pitcher. Maddux hit his spots and I think it's realistic to see him scatter hits like he does. Edmonds hit his 2nd bomb in as many games and I came back from a 4-1 deficit to tie the game at 4 in the top of the 8th. The AI does a pretty good job of pinch running and pinch hitting as Todd Walker crushed a double which sent the speedy pinch runner home. (forgot who that was) I hit a deep fly with a man on first to seal the deal for the Cubbies.

Next game is the rubber game of the series as Carpenter tries to even up his record at 1-1 vs the lefty Glendon Rusch.

I LOVE the play of the day, reminds me of NFL 2k5.

[MizzouRah]

dola,

Just had a very intense game against the Cubs and escaped with a 3-2 W and a trip home to face the Brewers in the home opener.

Rusch was very good as was Carpenter and his 97mph fastball. Rameriz hit a solo shot in the first to take the early lead, but Eckstein would add a solo shot in the third and Encarnation would follow in the 6th to take a 2-1 lead. Chicago added one in the bottom of the 8th on a Pierre double and a Lee single. Top of the 9th I scrape a run as Rolen singles home Eckstein. Izzy closes the game out and I go home happy to take 2 of 3 from the Cubs. There were some scary pitching moments as the Cubs had the bases loaded in the 7th.. I was lucky to get a ground out as the error zone of the pitching meter was huge.

Here's the line

STL 3 11 1
CHI 2 8 1

Carpenter had 11 K's and Rusch K'd me 5 times. With the pitch speed slider on max, fastball pitchers are harder to hit. If the game is any indication, the Cubs have a great OF in terms of defense. Some of the catches they made were quite nice.

Tomorrow I get to play in our new stadium, my first season game in this beautiful stadium. Nobody wants out of the lineup tomorrow and Mulder is pleased to be the starter in the home opener. I think I'll reward Taguchi who's been seeing the ball quite well.

[Eaglesfan27]

dola,

Just had a very intense game against the Cubs and escaped with a 3-2 W and a trip home to face the Brewers in the home opener.

Rusch was very good as was Carpenter and his 97mph fastball. Rameriz hit a solo shot in the first to take the early lead, but Eckstein would add a solo shot in the third and Encarnation would follow in the 6th to take a 2-1 lead. Chicago added one in the bottom of the 8th on a Pierre double and a Lee single. Top of the 9th I scrape a run as Rolen singles home Eckstein. Izzy closes the game out and I go home happy to take 2 of 3 from the Cubs. There were some scary pitching moments as the Cubs had the bases loaded in the 7th.. I was lucky to get a ground out as the error zone of the pitching meter was huge.

Here's the line

STL 3 11 1
CHI 2 8 1

Carpenter had 11 K's and Rusch K'd me 5 times. With the pitch speed slider on max, fastball pitchers are harder to hit. If the game is any indication, the Cubs have a great OF in terms of defense. Some of the catches they made were quite nice.

Tomorrow I get to play in our new stadium, my first season game in this beautiful stadium. Nobody wants out of the lineup tomorrow and Mulder is pleased to be the starter in the home opener. I think I'll reward Taguchi who's been seeing the ball quite well.
Mulder is really telling you that he is pleased to be starting tomorrow? Man, I'm only getting a max of one more game in the next month and it is a tough toss-up between this and the new college hoops on the Xbox360.

[dervack]

I might end up getting a PS2 for this and MVP College baseball. Damn you guys.

[Emiliano]

Ok thanks a lot Izulde, that comment "To me it's what ITP should have been" was what i wanted to read. I just emailed one online shop that sells consoles with the mod included to play import games. Also do you guys know any online shop to purchase this game that ships to Europe? (or even better if it's an european shop) else maybe i'll need any of you to do me the big favour of purchasing it and shipping it to me. I'll beg you all if needed :)

Edited: I guess the game is not available for XBOX right?
Hey buddy, I can't find you on ICQ/AIM right now, so I'll just post here.

Tronix (http://www.tronixweb.com/) is where I always get the US Xbox games not available in Europe (NCAA series, Madden on US release...). They're "specialized" in international orders. I STRONGLY recommend it. I've bought more than 10 games from them. As you can see, they have (http://www.tronixweb.com/store/product158.html) this MLB game at 39.95$. I also suggest you to choose the FedEx shipping (15$): 2 days and you got the game in your hand, totally worth it.

[SegRat]

Well I got a 1 year deal from the Brewers to pitch and sent to 1AA. My first at bat I hit deep to center field. The center fielder comes under the ball but drops it. Guy on third base runs in for the game winning run.

This game rocks.

[CraigSca]

What's a good site to find complete slider information?

[heybrad]

Having been monitoring this thread and having my work piss me off so much that I swore I wouldn't do any work after hours anymore for them, I went out and bought this last night (for PS2). What a cool game.

It's the career mode that interests me the most as I love playing console baseball games, but trying to play out even a season tests my patience. The idea of controlling only my at-bats or appearances sounded really cool. I fired it up last night (after my sons baseball practice) and started up a career. I was pleasantly surprised that I could add myself using the Eye-toy (yes, I'm that much of a geek) so I took a few shots and created myself. I looked more like a severe burn victiim than myself, but hey, that's makes for a better story. I latched on with the Angels as a 1B and to get my feet wet, fast forwarded to my at-bats.

I stayed up into the wee hours saying, "This will be my last game and then I'll go to bed." I haven't done that in years. I had a fairly decent spring and then started playing for the Arkansas Travelers. This game is a total blast.

The only downside was that after spending all this time, I finally decided to save my game only to find that I had no space because my son created a ton of Tony Hawk custom skaters. Argh.

I'll have no problem starting over tonight and doing it all again. What a fun game.

[Icy]

Damn, as i posted in the thread i started about consoles, i just ordered a PS2 console just for this game. thanks for the website for import games Emiliano, will order the game there probably.

You guys are going to cost me a marriage.

[MizzouRah]

Mulder is really telling you that he is pleased to be starting tomorrow? Man, I'm only getting a max of one more game in the next month and it is a tough toss-up between this and the new college hoops on the Xbox360.
Shoot.. no Mulder didn't say he was happy to start. Sorry.. that was all me and my made up fantasy world. :D

They do have situations before games though like your starter has a blister on his finger, do you want to start him or sit him another day... etc..

Get the college hoops game if none other than to play your 360. :)

This game is very good however.

[Eaglesfan27]

Shoot.. no Mulder didn't say he was happy to start. Sorry.. that was all me and my made up fantasy world. :D

They do have situations before games though like your starter has a blister on his finger, do you want to start him or sit him another day... etc..

Get the college hoops game if none other than to play your 360. :)

This game is very good however.

Cool. I'm still going to get this eventually, just not until after we buy the house ;)

[MizzouRah]

Cool. I'm still going to get this eventually, just not until after we buy the house ;)
Yeah, I think you'll really like it.

It's just like HH as I'm constantly thinking about tonights home opener vs the Brewers. :)

[jbmagic]

I am really thinking of getting playstation 2. This game has my interest and so does College Hoops.

What Memory card recommend to get with Playstation 2?

How is free agents signing in MLB "The Show"? Is it better than MVP free agents signing?

[CamEdwards]

When you start a franchise mode, there are no free agents of note worth signing. I'm only two games into my first season, so it will be a while before I get that far.

I'm currently 2-0 as the Red Sox. Beat the Rangers in my first game 9-7. Schilling gave up 5 runs in 6 innings, Ortiz went yard twice, Manny once. Won the second game 4-3. Didn't hit any home runs, but Manny was 4-4 (he's batting over .800 through two games). I actually won the second game in the bottom of the ninth when Brad Wilkerson bobbled and dropped a fly ball, allowing a runner to score with two outs. I had to force myself to turn off the game at 11:15 in order to get a good night's sleep. I'm hoping to play at least two games tonight.

[jbmagic]

No free agents in the game? Is that true?

[CamEdwards]

No free agents in the game? Is that true?

That's not what I said. I said there are no free agents of note worth signing. When you start in franchise mode, the free agents are all of the minor league type. I'm sure there are free agents in the game.

[Icy]

No free agents in the game? Is that true?Read it again and slowly this time :)

When you start a franchise mode, there are no free agents of note worth signing. I'm only two games into my first season, so it will be a while before I get that far.

[jbmagic]

Read it again and slowly this time :)


i wasnt replying to his message above. :) Sorry for the confusion

i was reading some playstation forums and they mention there no free agents in the game.

Was wondering for anybody that completed a season if thats true?

The only way is connecting online to get latest roster?

Will i need to purchase anything extra with a playstation 2 to connect online. I have DSL modem.

[Icy]

I think you need a network adaptor that is not included in the standard Ps2 but i'm not sure as i just bought mine online today and will be at home tomorrow. I guess i'll also need to buy a memory card to be able to save the games and i forgot about that.

[Bearcat729]

i wasnt replying to his message above. :) Sorry for the confusion

i was reading some playstation forums and they mention there no free agents in the game.

Was wondering for anybody that completed a season if thats true?

.


There are always a ton of very good free agents in the offseason.

[FBPro]

Having been monitoring this thread and having my work piss me off so much that I swore I wouldn't do any work after hours anymore for them, I went out and bought this last night (for PS2). What a cool game.

It's the career mode that interests me the most as I love playing console baseball games, but trying to play out even a season tests my patience. The idea of controlling only my at-bats or appearances sounded really cool. I fired it up last night (after my sons baseball practice) and started up a career. I was pleasantly surprised that I could add myself using the Eye-toy (yes, I'm that much of a geek) so I took a few shots and created myself. I looked more like a severe burn victiim than myself, but hey, that's makes for a better story. I latched on with the Angels as a 1B and to get my feet wet, fast forwarded to my at-bats.

I stayed up into the wee hours saying, "This will be my last game and then I'll go to bed." I haven't done that in years. I had a fairly decent spring and then started playing for the Arkansas Travelers. This game is a total blast.

The only downside was that after spending all this time, I finally decided to save my game only to find that I had no space because my son created a ton of Tony Hawk custom skaters. Argh.

I'll have no problem starting over tonight and doing it all again. What a fun game.
No doubt, the career mode is what takes up my time as well. Lot's of fun and still get to experience alot of the other goodies that folks are talking about the game. Well worth my time.

[jbmagic]

Just got myself the slim playstation 2 console and MLB "The Show"

There is network ready added to the console, so i should be able to get updated rosters.

I wont be able to play the game tonight. My friends taking me out for my birthday.

I cant wait to play it tommorrow.

[FBPro]

I read somewhere that updating the rosters may screw up player stats, I don't think it was talking about already begun franchises either. So you might want to do a little research before you do.

[MizzouRah]

Ok, the Brewers just smoked me 7-0 in our home opener so veteran is fine for me. :)

Capuano stiffled me all night. Sheesh...

[jbmagic]

Nope, veteran is like that as well.. at least as far as just swinging without bat placement. All star has 4 hitting zones and HOF has 9.

According to veteran mode batting tip, its says batting in veteran mode uses the same timing system as rookie level, but also offers zone control batting, which allows you to use left analog stick to place the bat within the strike zone. The strike zone consists of nine hot and cold zones.

Veteran mode simplifies these zone zones for batting by incorporating four directions (Up, Down,Left,Right) to hit into the different zones.

[Icy]

Damn i just phoned the delivery agency and my new PS2 that i purchased yesterday won't be here until Monday instead of today, good news for my wife, bad for me.

[MizzouRah]

I returned the favor to the Brewers to the tune of 6-0. Jason Marquis has really been great so far.

[Fonzie]

I hereby place a curse on all of you for making me buy both a PS2 and this game. My wife would share my sentiments, I'm sure, but for different reasons. :)

[dervack]

Yeah, I might go and grab one this weekend myself. Thanks guys.

[SegRat]

I havent had this much fun with a console game in years.

[Airhog]

hmm, Im not a fan of baseball games, but the career mode, does sound interesting

[jbmagic]

This Game is awesome.

Anybody try manager mode yet?

Wow its the better than High Heat manager mode.

You have so many options has a manager to choose from when managing the game.

Manager Mode is in graphic mode too.

[MizzouRah]

Rubber game of the series vs Milwaukee, another battle but I manage to take a 5-3 lead late in the game. Suppan was all over the place and ended up walking 4 Brewer batters - never did that in a console baseball game before.. but I love that pitch count slider - Edmonds was hit twice, once in the head and the second time in the thigh, I'm sure that was for his 2 run bomb earlier in the game and his "in your face" trot around the bases, but I remain calm.

Bottom of the 8th and I decide to hit Carlos Lee in retaliation. Up comes Prince Fielder and smacks a 1-0 fastball into the RF upper deck, his second of the day, to tie the game at 5. Shit... Izzy keeps it tied with a decent 9th inning, but in the 10th inning, he gives up a double and then a smoker up the midde that Miles just can't get to fast enough and the runner is safe at first. One out, men on first and third and the next guy hits one to 2nd base for a possible double play.... Eckstein can't get out of his glove in time and the runner's safe on a close play. Derrick Turnbow comes in a gets his 3rd save as his fastball had some wicked movement. Game over 6-5 and the Brewers take 2 out of 3.

Pujols had career hit 1,000 in the game and it was neat to see the camera pan to him on 1st base as the annoucers talked about his milestone.

You know, at times I wonder if I'm hitting too well in a game and then I'm shutout 4 innings in a row. I really like the variety of scores in this game and at 4-5 the game is definitly challenging.

[Pumpy Tudors]

I don't play with our PS2 very much, but this game might make me do it. I think I'm going to rent this game soon and try it out. You guys are really doing a great job of selling this game if you're getting me to turn on the PS2. :D

[MizzouRah]

I don't play with our PS2 very much, but this game might make me do it. I think I'm going to rent this game soon and try it out. You guys are really doing a great job of selling this game if you're getting me to turn on the PS2. :D

I think the big thing for me with this game is it's very intense and pitching is a blast. I can easily lose an hours time do to how immersed this game is for me.

The AI does just the right amount of good/questionable plays to make each game different. They will bunt, steal, make great plays, make errors, pinch hit, pinch run, try for extra bases, pick you off, etc... There's enough meat and potatoes in this game to make it fun and at the same time every game has something that makes you say... wow, I can't believe they added that.

Kudos to SCEA... and when this game comes to the ps3, I think it will only get better.

MVP is great, but you know what to expect commentary wise, game presentation wise, MLB is a fresh feeling each game.

[jbmagic]

I don't play with our PS2 very much, but this game might make me do it. I think I'm going to rent this game soon and try it out. You guys are really doing a great job of selling this game if you're getting me to turn on the PS2. :D


Its really good. Very addicting.

[Sweed]

I hereby place a curse on all of you for making me buy both a PS2 and this game. My wife would share my sentiments, I'm sure, but for different reasons. :)

Tell her we all said Hi. :)

[tucker rocky]

After reading so much praise about this game, I went and bought it a few days ago.
Have not had much time to play, but it looks great.

Started a season with my team the Phillies on rookie mode to learn the hitting, and other aspects. Later will move up to veteran.

In first game of the season against the Cards, won 8-3 with Burrell smacking a 3 run blast and adding a solo later. Also, Howard went yard on another solo. Carpenter was holding up good, until his disasterous 5th. Cards leading 3-1, and Phillies explode for 6 runs, final line on Carpenter:
5 IP
7 R
7 ER
3 W
0 K
12.60 ERA

a terrible outing.

Leiber was slow to start, but came alive later to finish with a CG.
Leiber's final line:
9 IP
3 R
2 ER
0 W
9 K
2.00 ERA

Albert did hit a fatty 3 run job, thanks to my hard throw to first by Utley to batter before Albert.
The tip came up about pressure sensitive buttons after the fact.

Burrell ended up POG.

[MizzouRah]

Just played two more great games, this is where I'm at.

Difficulty: Veteran
Hot/Cold zones: on
Strikezone: on
Cursor: Fade
Vibration: Off

Pitch count slider: maxed
CPU and Human pitch speed: maxed

Camera views
Pitching: wide
Batting: wide
Fielding: medium

Slides and fielding: manual
Guess pitch: on

I also alternate ump consistency between wide and tight every other game.

The "wide" view when batting as well as the pitch speed sliders all the way up, really make FB pitchers harder to hit. My strikeouts are now normal.

[Fonzie]

This game is outstanding. I'm really digging the Career mode.

However, I just encountered my first game problem that made me cringe: we were at home, and my starting pitcher finished the top of the 7th in a 0-0 tie. In the bottom of the 7th we scored 3 runs, and went on to win 3-1. The starter should have gotten credit for the win, as he was the last pitcher in the game before we took the lead for good. However, the game assigned the win to the reliever who came on in the 8th.

For me that's one of those "how did they miss that?!" kind of screw-ups. I love the game, of course, but damn I hate that shit.

[hukarez]

This game is outstanding. I'm really digging the Career mode.

However, I just encountered my first game problem that made me cringe: we were at home, and my starting pitcher finished the top of the 7th in a 0-0 tie. In the bottom of the 7th we scored 3 runs, and went on to win 3-1. The starter should have gotten credit for the win, as he was the last pitcher in the game before we took the lead for good. However, the game assigned the win to the reliever who came on in the 8th.

For me that's one of those "how did they miss that?!" kind of screw-ups. I love the game, of course, but damn I hate that shit.

Wow, weird.

I played a game today (spring training), where I had almost the same situation - though, it resulted in a shut-out victory for my team. My SP went a full 7 innings, before I scored the only 3 runs to win the game. However, at the end, he did get credited with the W.

[terpkristin]

I just picked it up for my PSP. I hate you all for making me spend money. ;)

Looking forward to playing, though, for now waiting for my PSP to charge...

/tk

[jbmagic]

Any finance tips when playing franshise mode? There no explanation in the manual.

It seems like i was able to get the best scouts, medical, coaches, etc. I leading the league in every category with money spended on each finance categories. I kept pumping money into it until the comments was very postive.

This was before I play my first spring training game.

Will that affect me in the long run for doing that?

[SunDevil]

I went to 3 Best Buys today and could not find this game. Either I am blind or this game is that good and everyone has bought it up.

[terpkristin]

I went to 3 Best Buys today and could not find this game. Either I am blind or this game is that good and everyone has bought it up.

Looks like in the Tempe, AZ region, it's popular:
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[SunDevil]

Thank you. Now I have to finish up these chores as fast as possible and slip outside with the car keys without anyone noticing..... :)

[johnnyshaka]

I hereby place a curse on all of you for making me buy both a PS2 and this game. My wife would share my sentiments, I'm sure, but for different reasons. :)

I've been pondering the same thing...especially after doing my taxes today and getting a nifty little refund...but, I've tested the waters with my wife over the last little while and the water is cold!!!! Crap!!! Time for the flowers routine!!!

[Icy]

Ok got it this morning!

I need to look for sliders now, i'm playin on Veteran and hitting is hard.

One question, when playing career mode as LF, i know there is an option to fast forward to your next at bat, but is there any way to watch the game while i'mnot in the field? or just manage myself as LF but not to pitch? That is the only problem i see on the career mode, that if you want to field, you need also to pitch unless i'm missing the option.

[Izulde]

Ok got it this morning!

I need to look for sliders now, i'm playin on Veteran and hitting is hard.

One question, when playing career mode as LF, i know there is an option to fast forward to your next at bat, but is there any way to watch the game while i'mnot in the field? or just manage myself as LF but not to pitch? That is the only problem i see on the career mode, that if you want to field, you need also to pitch unless i'm missing the option.

Nope, I haven't found that one either. When you want to field, you have to both pitch *and* control *everyone* in the field it seems, which is why I said that being a position player is meh for Career Mode.

Maybe C is different though, I don't know.

I just know that for Career Mode, nothing beats being a P, either ST or CL.

[Izulde]

What did you find lacking for the position player career mode?

I generally don't buy baseball console games, but I love the idea of ITP and if this takes that concept to a new level I'll probably pick it up. Also, if anyone can go into more detail about this aspect of the game, I would appreciate it.

As I noted to Icy, it appears you can't control your player alone when fielding, which kind of sucks. Also, I think there's a sense of detachment from the rest of the game when you're just doing your own ABs.

But to give you a brief rundown on Career Mode, you make your guy, assign ratings points to different areas (believe me, this is *not* an easy thing to do as there's tons of areas to choose from and you really have to decide what's important. Skimp in one area and you *will* get hosed by it as I found out when I didn't put anything into durability).

You pick a team and go through ST and either get offered a contract by the team or not. I did well enough to get an offer from the White Sox, a one year deal. They put me at AAA, though it does go down to AA in terms of levels.

There's Minor League All-Stars and playoffs. i was just on the verge of breaking into the upper echelon of the All-Star voting for AAA SP when I got injured and as i said, I missed the playoffs.

You then get released after your first year is up and are free to hit the market. In my case, the White Sox wanted me back and other teams were interested as I described in a later post.

You can negotiate your contract too, which I did with the White Sox before re-signing with them.

You can also demand a higher spot in lineup/rotation, more playing time, a callup to the next level, a trade, etc. and depending on how you perform in games, that determines the amount of training points you get to allocate to the various areas.

Even if you do exceptionally well for a long run though, you won't turn into a super athlete in a season or two because the costs become more and more expensive to increase even a single point as time goes on.

So you really have to gradually build yourself up, which adds to the realism.

Also you can get really streaky. For example, I was putting together some great outings after getting my tail kicked for a while. Then I got hurt.

Since I've come back from injury, I've had the occasional brilliant game and a few solid outings, but I'm also getting hammered.

A lot.

It appears that you can't do the same things over and over and you really have to mix things up or the game will figure you out, even on the minor league levels.

[Icy]

Agree with Izulde, unless you only want to bat in your turn and skip the game until your next at bat, it's funnier to be a pitcher. I have started a career as SP, tried with the Phillies in the Spring training not doing so bad, they offered me a contract and now i'm going to start the season in the AA. With my current pitching level, it's damn hard to keep a low ERA but slowly i'll try to improve with the trainig points. Really fun game so far. I only miss what i said before, that if you are a fielder and want to play in defense, you need also to pitch and to manage all the fielders while if you are a pitcher you only manage your pitcher.

[Bee]

Sounds good...thanks for the info. I'll probably pick this up the next chance I get.

[Icy]

Aren't pitchers being substitued too fast? at least in the minors i see like 6 pitchers playing some innings per game in each team.

[Icy]

Dola, awesome stuff, i had a minor injury and i was asked if i wanted to enter in the 15 days injury list or to keep playing, but in the case of keeping on playing, i wouldn't be able to get any level increase by training in 30 days. I love that kind of situations where i need to decide what to do.

[jbmagic]

So if i choose to create a first basemen for example, i won't be able to watch the game until my at bat comes up to hit?

I have to control all the player's at bats on the team?

[Icy]

So if i choose to create a first basemen for example, i won't be able to watch the game until my at bat comes up to hit?

I have to control all the player's at bats on the team?
Nope, you can't watch it, or you control all players at bat or you select the option to skip until your next at bat but in that case you can't watch the other players batting. That is my only complain about the game so far, but on the other hand the games are fast played that way and you advance faster in your career.

[Icy]

Dola, i just had my best game so far, in fact i have been struggling until now.

Pitching 5.0 IP, 2H, 0R, 0ER, 0BB, 5SO 0 HR
Batting: 2-3 with 1 RBI

[Fonzie]

Another scoring problem:

With a runner on first I induced a groundball to the shortstop. The SS promptly threw the ball over the 1B's head and the runners advanced to 2nd and 3rd. No error recorded.

In fact, I've seen a couple of instances in which errors indisputably should have been recorded because the runners wound up advancing, but weren't. I wouldn't normally care about such things in a console game, but as I'm playing in career mode those earned runs matter for my stats line (and thus my training hours, and ultimately my development).

Otherwise this is a fantastic game.

[SegRat]

I had my first problem. I hit the ball to deep center, but the center fielder never moved to pick up the ball. I ended up with an inside the park home run.

[Young Drachma]

Based on the reviews here and what i read somewhere else, I got the PSP version of this today. It's great that it has a career mode and even a multiple season mode. So we'll see what happens, but...hopefully it's better than Arena Football, the game I traded in at Hastings towards this purchase. ;)

[Fonzie]

Does anybody know if there is a way to keep your slider settings stored permanently?

And is there anyplace on the web that actually describes what the sliders do?

Gracias.

[MizzouRah]

Does anybody know if there is a way to keep your slider settings stored permanently?

And is there anyplace on the web that actually describes what the sliders do?

Gracias.

You have to same them within a franchise or career. Weird, but that's the only way to do it.

[Icy]

Mizzou, please can you post the sliders you are using and why?

[jbmagic]

ICY

This game is great so far. WOW, its so addicting :)

Have you try manager mode yet? Its great. You can watch the game and make managerial decisons like hit and run, tell your hitter to be aggressive, take a pitch, intentional walks, tell your pitchers to pitch around, pinch hit, sub, steal, bunt,etc.

There so many options to choose from when managing the game. The great thing its all in graphic mode while you watch the game..

[MizzouRah]

Just played two more great games, this is where I'm at.

Difficulty: Veteran
Hot/Cold zones: on
Strikezone: on
Cursor: Fade
Vibration: Off

Pitch count slider: maxed
CPU and Human pitch speed: maxed

Camera views
Pitching: wide
Batting: wide
Fielding: medium

Slides and fielding: manual
Guess pitch: on

I also alternate ump consistency between wide and tight every other game.

The "wide" view when batting as well as the pitch speed sliders all the way up, really make FB pitchers harder to hit. My strikeouts are now normal.

For Icy :)

I just might move up to all star soon as my hitting seems to be getting better, although I need to play against a premeire pitcher or two first.

[Young Drachma]

It's a great game. Wow...it's by far my favourite PSP game so far and I can see it having me waste lots of time all over the place.

Good stuff.

[SegRat]

For those playing career mode, how long has it taken you to get to the majors? My first year I started off 1AA and was sent up 3 times. 2 of which I was sent back down without playing. The third time I pitched in 4 straight games and was then sent back down. I am in my second season and my team sucks ass. I have been getting rocked and fear I will soon be without a team. Sad as my first year I made the AA all stars as the starting picther.

[Icy]

For those playing career mode, how long has it taken you to get to the majors? My first year I started off 1AA and was sent up 3 times. 2 of which I was sent back down without playing. The third time I pitched in 4 straight games and was then sent back down. I am in my second season and my team sucks ass. I have been getting rocked and fear I will soon be without a team. Sad as my first year I made the AA all stars as the starting picther.
No idea, i'm playing in veteran level and having a hard time as SP. I signed for the Phillies, they sent me to AA and after 3 months i'm 2-5 with a 6.03 ERA. I'm the 5th in the rotation and sometimes i'm used as MR or even Closer.

I have had a few good games, but i love how hard is to success. I'm feeling like a real pitcher, for example i'm having an awesome no hitter game for 4 innings, then if lose the concentration just a second they hit a double, triple or even HR screwing my perfect game. I love also the confidence feature, if you start to strike them out your confidence bar goes up and it's easy to keep striking them, if you send balls and allow them to hit, your confidence goes down and then it's way harder to pitch properly. One nice thing are the messages from your team mates and manager, for example when they say that the game was lost not because my pitching but because they didn't generate enought runs.

I'm really addicted to the game, in fact my wife is starting to complain for the amount of time i'm expending on it.

[dervack]

Thanks to you bastards, I just bought a PS2. I hope to play it some tonight.

[Young Drachma]

For those playing career mode, how long has it taken you to get to the majors? My first year I started off 1AA and was sent up 3 times. 2 of which I was sent back down without playing. The third time I pitched in 4 straight games and was then sent back down. I am in my second season and my team sucks ass. I have been getting rocked and fear I will soon be without a team. Sad as my first year I made the AA all stars as the starting picther.

Let's see. I'm a leftfielder, who can play 1B/3B, but I'm not a great fielder, because I figured being a better hitter would get me to the majors faster. My first year, I was in the minors until mid-July, then the Blue Jays brought me up for the rest of the year.

I got released and was offered a deal again, but opted to sign with the Yankees. Spent a year there, half of it in the minors, before coming up for a month or so and then being sent down. Then I got released at season's end again.

This time, I signed a 1 year deal with a 1 year player option with the Angels. They brought me up at mid-season and I played until the AAA playoffs and then they sent me down. It was better that way, because they weren't going to the real playoffs and they were just using me as a pinch hitter. In the minors, we won the PCL title.

So, I was able to exercise my option and declined it and became a free agent. I signed with Boston as a non-roster invitee and played my way onto the team in spring training, signed a 1 year deal worth $550k (my first deal was 30k, then i made 50k my 2nd year and 77k my 3rd year..and my option was worth 81k, so i'd say I made a smart move)

The Red Sox were thin on leftfielders and so, I'm playing now in the majors...and have been trying my best to get rookie of the year. I've never enjoyed a career mode in a game as much as I have this one. And the fact that it's portable, makes me really happy. ;)

Good stuff.

[MizzouRah]

Thanks to you bastards, I just bought a PS2. I hope to play it some tonight.

Come to the ps2. :)

I just picked up some component cables to hook the ol' ps2 up to my Sony Wega TV.

[Icy]

Damn i hate being a closer. I'm gaining high respect for closers in real life, i can't handle the pressure and it's just a game. After some bad perfomances as SP, my coach decided to bring me at the bottom of the 9 inning, tied on the scoreboard and with 3 guys on base!! for sure he wants me to fail. I managed to strikeout 2 guys and ending the inning, then i managed to keep them on zero runs for 3 innings more but my team couldn't score a run either, then in the bottom of the 13th i ruined it, they scored 3 runs on me winning the game. I was really tired (not only in the game), my nerves were destroyed.

I so fuck*ng love this game!!

[Eaglesfan27]

Come to the ps2. :)

I just picked up some component cables to hook the ol' ps2 up to my Sony Wega TV.


Does it look better in HD? I honestly forgot if the PS2 can do HD? By the way, I'm probably getting the Sony Wega in a few months too.

[Fonzie]

I'm playing in career mode as a lefty starter in the minors, and I've found it to be quite a challenge on Rookie level. I may have increased my stamina too quickly, which allows me to stay in the game so long that my mediocre stuff gets clobbered eventually. In fact, my manager has really left me out to dry a few times, which pissed me off (in a good, game-appropriate way).

From an immersion perspective I love the fact that I get completely exasperated with my defense - much as I imagine a real minor league pitcher trying to make the grade would. Great stuff!

[Young Drachma]

The more I read, the more I guess being a pitcher isn't the way to go yet. ;)

My teams have always been bad and the Red Sox are dead last in the AL East, but I can see where a player on a 1 year deal is just playing to get well enough to get a good deal to go someplace where he can compete. I can't imagine how frustrating it would be for a player making millions upon millions.

It's really awesome how well they've done this. I usually hate these modes, but this is so good.

[MizzouRah]

Does it look better in HD? I honestly forgot if the PS2 can do HD? By the way, I'm probably getting the Sony Wega in a few months too.

No the ps2 can't do HD. :( Although this is just a normal Sony Wega TV, which will soon be in our bedroom as I make room for the 50" Sony Grand Wega SXRD. :)

In MLB news, I just swept the Reds and although I keep saying I'm moving up to AS, Veteran is still just fine stat wise. After 12 games, I do have the highest BA right ahead of the Yankees, but I haven't really played against any top notch pitching yet. I'm like 5th in team ERA as well. Many more games need to be played before I think I need to change anything at all.

:rockband:

I like these new smilies.

[jbmagic]

You guys controlling everyone when playing as a created player or you guys simming ahead to your at bats and when you pitch only?

[Young Drachma]

I sim ahead to my at bats.

[Icy]

I'm a pitcher and sim ahead to my appearances.

[MizzouRah]

I lost my last game, but I think I'm ready for AS level, everything else will stay the same.

[Icy]

One question, in the AA, do you play different leagues during the season? i'm in July now, i have played like 20 games, simmed all the ones where i didn't appear, etc, like 60 total games or so.

Then i saved and when i came back to play, in the standings my team is 7-2 and seems all the teams have played only 9 games. Not sure if it is a bug or that the season ended and we started another season after 3 months or so.

I haven't been paying attention to the standings until now, but i see it a bit weird. The players stats etc are correct, for example the games played, but the games played in the standings are not.

It's 2 am here so maybe my eyes are playing tricks on me but could you guys check it in your games?

[Young Drachma]

In some minor leagues, they reset the standings at mid-season. They have 1st half and 2nd half champions, with both going to the playoffs.

[hukarez]

Anyone playing Franchise mode notice anything peculiar about the business management aspect of things? More specifically, the promotions?

I started out with scheduling a promotion (Bobblehead night) for my home game against the Giants on April 4, and played my game out. I won the game (a night game at that), and thought I'd go ahead and check out how the promotion went - but I still saw a message that said something to the effect of: "You'll find out results of how your promotion went after tonight's game!"

...which, I had already played.

I'm pretty positive I didn't have this promotion scheduled for 4/4/2007.

[gkb]

Ok, I suck at this game. I started in Franchise mode and am playing the Rockies. I've played 3 spring training games so far on ROOKIE level and I've lost 2 of them. I've never had difficulty winning on the easiest level of a game before and usually move up pretty quickly. I'm afraid I'm getting old and slow... :(

[Young Drachma]

Just tweak the settings until you get used to it or whatever and then gradually increase the difficulty. After all, it's about your own enjoyment, not trying to please the masses or anything. But from what I've read, Rookie in this year's version is equiv. to All-Star in past years and All-Star is harder than that and then the hardest level is hard enough that you'll need to play a lot to master it.

So..it's not meant to be super easy like Rookie in most games are.

[johnnyshaka]

Yup, picked up a PS2 tonight...bastards!!! Will pick this game ASAP...again, bastards!!! Also want to get MVP 06 NCAA Baseball right away. Boy, my wife is going to be pissed!!!

[gkb]

I have a quick questions about the hot and cold zones. When I press the Select button and check the hot and cold zones shown there, they don't match what I see overlaid in the strike zone when I'm batting or pitching. Which one is correct?

[Icy]

I have a quick questions about the hot and cold zones. When I press the Select button and check the hot and cold zones shown there, they don't match what I see overlaid in the strike zone when I'm batting or pitching. Which one is correct?

I was wondering about that too.

[MizzouRah]

I have a quick questions about the hot and cold zones. When I press the Select button and check the hot and cold zones shown there, they don't match what I see overlaid in the strike zone when I'm batting or pitching. Which one is correct?

I believe the ones in the select menu are career hot/cold zones and the ones in while playing the game change due to the batter being hot or cold.

btw, I'm back to veteran level as I strike out on AS too much.

[Fonzie]

In fact, I've seen a couple of instances in which errors indisputably should have been recorded because the runners wound up advancing, but weren't. I wouldn't normally care about such things in a console game, but as I'm playing in career mode those earned runs matter for my stats line (and thus my training hours, and ultimately my development).

Otherwise this is a fantastic game.

I actually had a fairly amusing case of this last night: a batter hit a single to right to lead off an inning. The right fielder threw the ball in to 2nd, but it sailed over the second baseman's head into foul territory in left. The runner advanced to 2nd. The 3rd baseman who fielded the errant throw then throws back to 2nd, and the ball again sails over the second baseman's head and back into right field. The runner advanced to 3rd.

No errors recorded on the play. :eek:

[johnnyshaka]

Ok...just got back from my local EBGames and traded in a couple of games and picked up MLB '06 and can't wait to crack it open tonight!!! Decided against NCAA Baseball and grabbed GT4 instead...figured one baseball was sufficient...and by the sounds of this thread, I've picked the right one.

[johnnyshaka]

DOLA -Well, played MLB '06 until 5am...YOU BASTARDS!!!! Definitely addictive.

Started a career as a 3B in the A's organization and after a great spring training I signed with them and started in Sacramento, AAA. After the first month of the season, half of which I missed to do an ACL injury, I wasn't doing too badly, batting .260 or so and had more good feedback than bad...so, pretty happy with that. But, when I finally decided I'd better get to bed, I went to save and completely forgot to make room on my memory card...ARGH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Oh well...just have to start over...woohoo!!!

For those playing in career mode, are you all starting off as a youngster?? I think I'm going to start this one as a "real life" career...31 years old, overweight, slow, no range, but with a decent arm and decent ability at the dish. I'm curious to see where I'll end up.

Anyways, very fun game, can't wait to get home and play some more tonight!!!

[Bee]

Based on the reviews here and what i read somewhere else, I got the PSP version of this today. It's great that it has a career mode and even a multiple season mode. So we'll see what happens, but...hopefully it's better than Arena Football, the game I traded in at Hastings towards this purchase. ;)

Hey DC, just curious if you know of anything the PSP version doesn't have. I know they usually cut stuff, I was just curious what was cut in this game.

[heybrad]

Hey DC, just curious if you know of anything the PSP version doesn't have. I know they usually cut stuff, I was just curious what was cut in this game.
According to my brother, who bought it for the PSP, it doesn't have the full franchise mode.

[CraigSca]

No Full franchise mode? That's unfortunately not going to sway me enough not to buy a PSP and the PSP version of this game when I get home :(.

[MizzouRah]

Difficulty: Veteran
Hot/Cold zones: on
Strikezone: on
Cursor: Fade
Vibration: Off

Pitch count slider: maxed
CPU and Human pitch speed: maxed
CPU contact and power: +1
CPU and Human errors: +1

Camera views
Pitching: wide
Batting: wide
Fielding: medium

Slides and fielding: manual
Guess pitch: on

I also alternate ump consistency between wide and tight every other game.

The "wide" view when batting as well as the pitch speed sliders all the way up, really make FB pitchers harder to hit. My strikeouts are now normal.

Added a tad more offense from the CPU, or at least hoping to. Just had a game where the CPU team had more hits than I did.

STL 3 7 1
PIT 4 10 0

Quite a great game, 1 homer a piece, they K'd me 9 times total, I K'd them 6. Izzy blew a 10th inning tie with a bases loaded passed ball. :(<!-- / message --><!-- sig -->

[MizzouRah]

Damn Cubs! Tied once again in the 10th inning and Matt Murton smashes an Izzy cutter into the stands. Ass munch threw his bat up in the air and mocked me around the bases. I lose 5-3 and once again I was out hit.

These settings are working well. I might go to a +2 on errors though if I don't see any next game.

It's great to know that even great pitchers like Carp can have off nights and little confidence. I couldn't hit any spots tonight with him and walked 4 hitters.. never did that in MVP before.

[bossfan2000]

I have this for my psp and am addicted.

Started out playing in season mode with the braves and was 3-3. Then decided to try out the career mode after reading this thread early in the week. Bad move. Now i cant get anything else done...i didnt think career mode would appeal to me, but man is it awesome.

I started out as a C for the Cubs on Veteran mode...went through spring training and hit around .200. Got offered a 30k 1yr contract..i countered with 40k and they said now way, and offered 1yr at 31.8k, which i took to play for the AAA team. I started off cold, then got hot, then cold, and now have been consistently pretty good. I'm at May 20th of my first year..just playing my at bats. Being a catcher, i dont play everday..so i am assuming i am not on the leaderboards because i dont have enough at bats. Man, the feeling of hitting my first homerun was awesome. As was being named player of the game the first time. And talk about frustration..based loaded, 9th inning, down by one with 2 outs. Ripped a ball hr distance, but foul. Struck out on next pitch and we lost. Feels like I am IN the freaking game. awesome stuff.

Right now i lead AAA all star voting for catchers, hitting .333 with 6 hr and 28 rbi. I started out 6th in the lineup, then 5th, then 2nd, and now i usually hit cleanup. Cant wait to see if i get called up later in the year. Both the team and the mgr bars are maxed out at Pleased. About time for my next slump to kick in. And i sorta regret being a catcher, since i have to rest so often..didnt think about that when i created my player. Hoping i'll get moved to 1b at some point.

Is it just me, or do you keep saying..just one more game its only 4 ABs..then the next thing you know its been 2 hours? :)

[MizzouRah]

More ramblings...

I'm moving errors up to +2 from defaults, but so far everything else is really looking good. For once in a console game, my team's not 1st in every friggin stat category.. the only few have to do with pitching. I do see CPU HR's are coming up now as well as CPU hitting in general.

Zambrano and Mulder were on today, but Zambrano left two low FB's over the plate for John Rodriguez and he knocked 2 HR's and drove in 3 runs as we win Game 2 3-1.

[Young Drachma]

Hey DC, just curious if you know of anything the PSP version doesn't have. I know they usually cut stuff, I was just curious what was cut in this game.

According to what I read in a review -- and the only reason I bought it -- it has everything the console does except like one of the special hitting modes or something.

Curiously, the PSP game is still missing a few of the features that the PS2 game has. Some of them are no big loss, such as the rivalry mode or the two legends teams. Also not so bothersome is the lack of a franchise mode, since the season mode does at least let you perform many of the functions that a traditional franchise mode would. You can draft rookies, make trades, sign free agents, negotiate contracts, shuffle players back and forth between the minors, and juggle lineups and injuries. What is bothersome, however, is the outright absence of any player- and roster-editing functions. The PS2 game has a full range of editing functions so that players can keep the game up-to-date. That these functions were left out of the PSP game is absurd. - From here (http://www.gamespot.com/psp/sports/mlb06theshow/review.html)

The career mode is great, though. It's worth it for a game on the go, no doubt.

[Young Drachma]

I have this for my psp and am addicted.


Is it just me, or do you keep saying..just one more game its only 4 ABs..then the next thing you know its been 2 hours? :)

I've been playing this like crazy. I'm in the majors and its 2014. I became a regular in 2009. After a year in Toronto (31k), to the Yankees for a year (55k) then, to the Angels (77k), I opted out of my deal in Anaheim and took a chance to make the team in Boston. Signed a deal there and got (550k) to play 123 games.

Rather than re-signing, I signed a three-year deal with the Indians and started in 2010, but only hit .260, yet the team made and won the World Series. So that was really cool.

I came back to Cleveland for the 2nd year of my deal with them (I think my two-year deal with them was worth about $3 million in all) and they had the nerve to demote me to the minors for the minor league playoffs in 2011. We ended up winning the AAA title, because I was a beast and AAA pitching -- at that point -- had become old hat.

The demotion pissed me off and so, I was out of there at the end of the season and so, I left Cleveland (I had a player option for year 3) and tried to make the Cardinals.

Not only did I make the team, I had a breakout season (2012) hitting 47 homers, 123 RBI and batting .371. I really wanted to bolt and try to get a big payday, figuring there was no way -- my guy is mostly a singles hitter - I'd ever come close to replicating those numbers (specifically, the homers) again.

I made a return trip to the World Series that year with the Cards and we won it all. Good stuff.

But knowing I wanted to stay in St. Louis, with them being good (still) I opted to stay for the 2nd year of my option, so I "only" made about $5 million that second year. I hit a solid .308, hit 32 homers and 95 RBI. We lost in the 1st round of the playoffs.

They were loyal and I decided I knew I wanted to stay in St. Louis and apparently, they wanted me too. They offered me a 7 year deal worth $140 million, no team came close to that. (Most only offered me 3 years, some less..) And so, I opted for the security and signed the deal.

I've made the All-Star team as a starter (2009, 2012, 2013, 2014) and won my first Gold Glove in 2013.

We're playing the Tigers in Game 7 of the Series in a little bit.

Did I mention this game was really engrossing?

[Pumpy Tudors]

Ugh. I wish I had some money. The video store from which I've been renting games doesn't have it in stock, and I can't afford to buy it. I guess I could get it using my Gamefly account, although I'm thisclose to cancelling Gamefly. Grr.

[Young Drachma]

Ugh. I wish I had some money. The video store from which I've been renting games doesn't have it in stock, and I can't afford to buy it. I guess I could get it using my Gamefly account, although I'm thisclose to cancelling Gamefly. Grr.

I traded Arena Football at Hastings and used that towards it.

Hehe...but then, I'm not the die hard fan you are, Pumpy. :)

[SegRat]

My pitcher is getting killed now. I am in my third season. First year was so so. Second year I started out very slow but got hot and helped lead the team to the playoffs. Third year I signed on with the Reds and was sent to AAA. My record is 1-5, with a 5.55 ERA.
Not good, but determind to make the majors.

[MizzouRah]

I've been playing this like crazy. I'm in the majors and its 2014. I became a regular in 2009. After a year in Toronto (31k), to the Yankees for a year (55k) then, to the Angels (77k), I opted out of my deal in Anaheim and took a chance to make the team in Boston. Signed a deal there and got (550k) to play 123 games.

Rather than re-signing, I signed a three-year deal with the Indians and started in 2010, but only hit .260, yet the team made and won the World Series. So that was really cool.

I came back to Cleveland for the 2nd year of my deal with them (I think my two-year deal with them was worth about $3 million in all) and they had the nerve to demote me to the minors for the minor league playoffs in 2011. We ended up winning the AAA title, because I was a beast and AAA pitching -- at that point -- had become old hat.

The demotion pissed me off and so, I was out of there at the end of the season and so, I left Cleveland (I had a player option for year 3) and tried to make the Cardinals.

Not only did I make the team, I had a breakout season (2012) hitting 47 homers, 123 RBI and batting .371. I really wanted to bolt and try to get a big payday, figuring there was no way -- my guy is mostly a singles hitter - I'd ever come close to replicating those numbers (specifically, the homers) again.

I made a return trip to the World Series that year with the Cards and we won it all. Good stuff.

But knowing I wanted to stay in St. Louis, with them being good (still) I opted to stay for the 2nd year of my option, so I "only" made about $5 million that second year. I hit a solid .308, hit 32 homers and 95 RBI. We lost in the 1st round of the playoffs.

They were loyal and I decided I knew I wanted to stay in St. Louis and apparently, they wanted me too. They offered me a 7 year deal worth $140 million, no team came close to that. (Most only offered me 3 years, some less..) And so, I opted for the security and signed the deal.

I've made the All-Star team as a starter (2009, 2012, 2013, 2014) and won my first Gold Glove in 2013.

We're playing the Tigers in Game 7 of the Series in a little bit.

Did I mention this game was really engrossing?

Great read! We're glad to have you here!! :)

[Philliesfan980]

They had plenty of copies down at the CC when I was out laptop shopping. I'm so close to cracking for this game and paying essentially $210 for a single game.