MLB 2006 (Sony PlayStation 2, 2005)

I can't rate baseball games a 5. Something about the player graphics is never 100% correct. The commentating and gameplay gets better and better, but the players doesn't look right yet. I guess it's true for all sports games.

Aside from that minor quibble, you've got either this game, or MVP Baseball by EA Sports. Since by next year, MLB will only be the only franchise left (MLB signed a multi-year deal with Major League Baseball to have exclusive rights to the MLB players, team names, teams, etc), I decided to try MLB 2006 for the first time. The player motions are more true to life than MVP. The gameplay is more difficult, and the scores become more believable with scores like 6-3 instead of 17-1 against the computer opponent. Still, MVP is easier to pickup and play. It is more beginner friendly.

MLB 2006 holds its own. It gets getting used to, but it has its own coolness factor, fielding is more fun, double plays look better, and hitting requires more challenge. Overall a harder game, less arcade, more simulation. The career mode is pretty cool, allowing you to build a player and follow his progression from the minors to the majors. The franchise mode is quite complicated, and you can change a LOT of options, training, coaches, medical research, physical therapy, etc.

IT IS A GREAT DRIFIC GAME FOR KIDS THAT LIKE BASEBALL LIKE ME. I WILL KEEP AN EYE ON THIS GREAT GAME THAT I HIGHLY RECAMED. WHEN ITS ON EBAY IT IS ALWAYS A GREAT PRICE TOO. IT WOULD BE A GREAT CHRITMAS GIFT.

Simply put, MLB '06 The Show has awesome game play. They had to step up due to the fact EA Sports did not have rights to the MLB franchise this year. I think Sony did a commendable job making a good baseball game, but as always, room for improvement is present (although, not much). What I do fear, is that the PS2 games wont get the gameplay 'tweak' they need due to the PS3's upcoming arrival. I hope they do not abandon making PS2 games better, as not every one can afford to go out and drop $400-$500 on a new system. I am stuck with the PS2 for quite some time, and hope the gaming companies continue trying to making the PS2 games better.

When the game works it is wonderful. I have and two different discs and have had trouble with both. Here is the problem: When you are playing a season or franchise the game will lock up at some point and you will not be able to load a saved file. The game seems to lock up and freeze every time after you have played it for a week or so. Stay away from this game unless you don't ever want to save a game.

This game is awesome, the best out there. MVP is a college game because they lost their rights. Awesome Graphics, real gameplay, good commentary, and correct rosters. The only problem is the music which is very loud and annoying. Great game for serious and casual baseball fans.