Some of the major areas of criticism from last year concerned crucial fielding, batting and pitching gameplay. Whether you’re playing on Sony’s handheld system, or either of its consoles, expect a similar-yet-improved experience. A few tweaks and changes to problem areas have made ’08 an improved package over last year’s game.

Last year, The Show introduced Adaptive Pitching Intelligence and Pitch Command System to the simulator, and while both of these mechanics return to this year’s game, a few tweaked dynamics give ball-slingers added insight into managing their pitches. Instead of blindly throwing fast balls one after another, it’s possible to take a break before a pitch, see just how well and how effective different pitches have been against the current batter, which of your pitches are working well, how the resulting hit might pan out, and a whole host of other statistics to proceed accordingly with an appropriate pitch.

The pitcher-batter match-up isn’t all one sided however, as the batter has their own analytical tool to asses what the pitcher is likely to throw and how effective they have been at bat. By using the Progressive Batting Performance, the game tracks how hot or cold the current batter is, allowing you to judge how to hit the ball. By using a spectrum of color-coded icons ringed on the batter while at the plate, you’ll know if you should swing for the fences or take a bunt. Just like the pitching mechanics, the batter’s tool gives you the feeling that you have an influence in the batting process. Hitting balls well isn’t a simple task in The Show, but then again, neither can it be while playing at Fenway Park…when you’re Derek Jeter.

Changes have also been made for fielding and while running bases, which make the game play out smoother than its predecessor across all systems. While some minor tweaks in animations make fielding and running feel overall more responsive, a new system for robbing sluggers of home runs has been implemented. By timing the corresponding control just right, it’s possible to snag a ball from clearing the fences. Ultimately, it’s a small change, but being able to more effectively deny another of a homerun is a completely rewarding feeling.

For all of its praiseworthy changes and minor tweaks, not everything is perfect with this year’s Show. Unfortunately, the game’s A.I. is still not as solid as if you were playing with the ’98 Yankees. Minor issues in defensive play will make even the casual baseball fan wonder what happened. Missed cutoffs, pitchers neglecting fieldable balls, and slow reactions make the game sometimes feel as if it’s a beer league. However, tightened playmaking decisions and controls mask some of the problematic inconsistencies.

Some technical issues pop in all versions of the game as well. While last year’s framerate problems on the PSP seem to be have cured, all versions suffer from tearing brought on by new camera angles. Also, repetitious crowd animations and clipping are annoying preponderances. Graphically, the PS2 version is the weakest of the lot, with aliasing and texture issues, but they aren’t enough to ruin a solid experience.

All of these functions come included in a game which offers players unique and rewarding franchise and career modes. Just like ’07, this year’s game has all of the options for playing games. Like other sports games you have the option to just play single games, seasons, franchises and special events (i.e. Home Run Derbies), however, The Show throws in a special mode: Road to the Show. Unlike other games that focus on team development in a franchise, Road to the Show centers on the development of a singular player, from creation to making it big.

In these games, instead of playing as different people during games, you’ll focus on your player’s specialty. If you’re a pitcher, you’ll pitch; a shortstop will only play in-between third and fourth base; and, with any other position you choose to play, that’s where you’re going to play. To keep things interesting, goals are doled out by your manager to complete for each game. Unlike last year’s pass-fail model, this time, things are little more forgiving, and make for a more enjoyable experience.

While playing locally with a buddy is fun, friends aren’t always around. The online feature for ’08 has been updated with a new SCOUT (Sports Connect Online Users Tracking) system which allows players to find matches quicker based on player criteria. Such a setup does away with annoying, time consuming menus and is a welcomed addition.

Though, for the most part, each version of The Show is nearly identical—save for graphical differences—there are some differentiating features. The PS3 version is the only one which allows players access to the Replay Vault. Instead of simple replays, it’s possible to capture a stellar moment anytime in-game, and repeat it over and over again for bragging rights. The problem here is that the word “vault” is a bit deceiving. While you’re able to replay whatever, whenever, there’s no ability to save your replay or transfer it to a friend.

Also, the PS3 and PSP really get a host of more fun, and practical, features that the PS2 version lacks. Custom playlists, from MP3 and music files stored on your hard drive or memory stick, are able to be uploaded in-game for a customized audio experience. The last, big, difference between the formats is the ability to save games while still playing. Both the PS3 and PSP versions allow for players to save their progress at any time while in the middle of a game, but PS2 owners are forced to either play through the rest of their game, simulate to the end, or keep the console on until their next sitting.     

Finally, each version of the game looks great for their respective format and each does a stellar job on the audio side of things. Players and their animations look recognizable and athletic, though limited options in player creation is a little disappointing. However, everything from the announcing to in-game music is spot on. There are instances where you won’t hear the umpire’s call until sometime into your next pitch, but the above-average play-calling makes you feel like you’re listening to a real game while the boisterous crowd gives you the feeling you’re actually there.

In all, you can’t go wrong in picking up this season of The Show. It may feel like there’s not that much of a difference from ’07, but there are enough minor changes and tweaks to make this year’s outing a more complete, refined experience. The PS2 version is a bit gimped compared to the other two formats, but that’s a case of hardware. Also, there still remains the wished-for functionality of cross-compatibility between PS3 and PSP games to make the series really standout from SCEA’s MLB 2K8 competition. But, in the end—wishes aside—MLB ’08: The Show really is the baseball fan’s game.

Gameplay: 8.5
Graphics: 8.0
Audio: 8.5
Lasting Appeal: 9.0
Overall: 8.5
 

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