Operation Sports Forums - Player abilities

Yes, players tend to play to their ratings.

I will say, though, that from a gameplay standpoint, SMB3 is so on point it's ridiculous. On the mound and at the plate, it feels fair and realistic.

But, this is not a sim. Trying to replicate a real MLB statistical spread would be damn near impossible. The game works in its own universe, trying to create real players that would generate realistic stats would mostly be futile.

But, if you play with a team enough, you get a feel for players and absolutely love or dread when certain players need to make a play. Because MOJO will drive ratings up and down, I am changing my line-ups and how I handle my bullpen regularly. It feels like a realistic season, as SMB's MOJO generates more realistic hot and cold spells than I've seen in any other console baseball game.

Now, customization means you can create real teams and players, and that is awesome and fun. Personally, I'm going with random pop culture stars and characters who I've liked from different things.

My leadoff hitter this week was shortstop Henry Standing Bear, the owner of the Red Pony tavern, and best friends with Walt Longmire. Mina Kimes and Joel Embiid are both starting pitchers for me. And John Brown is my power hitting 1st baseman. I have Jordan Binnington closing games, and Pat Mahomes is my lockdown reliever.

Just like with a real team, you get a feel for how to use your players and such, some are better than others for how you play. Players are not interchangeable. There are pluses and minuses. John Brown is a liability in the field, so I often have to take him out if I have a lead.