MLB 07: The Show

MLB: The Show was one of last year’s best baseball simulations. This year, Sony hopes to continue on with that tradition and deliver another solid edition to the franchise.

The latest version of the series hopes to add several new elements that should please baseball fans everywhere. The biggest of these is the ability to play online in leagues of 6 up to 30. In a move that is sure to satisfy any gamer that has spent hours tweaking their game sliders to perfection, The Show will give players the ability to upload their statistics and game customizations. The online functionality also provides for benefits and rewards depending on how well you play.

The PS3 version of The Show also features the new Always Online mode. The Playstation network architecture gives players access to a score ticker, MLB.com updated news, instant messaging, access to their buddy lists and more to be added.

Sony hopes to create a much more immersive baseball atmosphere by focusing on the various details that developers often take for granted such as crowd animation, unique umpire traits and player animation.

The new Pitch Command System gives gamers more precise control over their pitches and allows for correct arm angles and pitching grips.

The new Adaptive Pitching Intelligence will have your catcher suggesting pitches based upon the batter’s pre-scouted weaknesses. However, users ultimately still have full control and are to ignore the suggestions and pitch a game the way they prefer.

Also new to the series is the new Road to The Show mode. This mode allows you to take control of a user created player for each play they are involved in. It allows you to follow the progress of your player and his statistics throughout an entire season.

In spite of all the new added features, all of the old modes and features from last year’s game make their triumphant return as well. Players will have access to League play, All-Star games, AAA and AA minor leagues, Eyetoy assisted player creation and more.

MLB07: The Show will show up at retail this May. Players who appreciate a deep experience and more of the excellent gameplay that this Sony created franchise is known for should definitely keep it on their radar.