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- MLB '07: The Show
MLB '07: The Show
- February 27, 2007 09:29 AM PST
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As baseball games continue to evolve, the MLB franchise will always have the challenge of outdoing itself year after year. There are only so many ways you can improve pitching, batting, fielding and managing.
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How well the game's controls translate into a pitch or the swing of a bat can make or break a baseball game, and MLB '07 has stepped up to the plate and knocked one over the fence.
Take to the Mound
PROTIP: Take full advantage of your pitcher's arsenal; if you ignore a pitch it will get weaker.
MLB '07 has pushed a little closer to the feel of a real baseball experience with the new Pitching Command System. The system works as a virtual catcher, offering advice on how and where to pitch based on your strengths and weaknesses. Stick with the catcher or choose your own pitch, it's all up to you. It also lets you work on your "pitch comfort" where, if you stick with one pitch, it will strengthen, but if you ignore a pitch, it will weaken. Each pitcher has a unique wind-up and release, and it's up to you to master the timing.
The batting system is only a matter of waiting for the pitch and pressing the button at the right time then controlling where the ball lands. The Guess Pitch option lets you look at the pitch history and speculate what kind of pitch will be coming your way. If you're right your swing will have more power, but to be honest, I almost never got it right. No matter what your batting strategy is, keep your eye on the ball as pitches will fly by at lighting speeds.
You're Out Because I Say You're Out
PROTIP: Take advantage of the API; most of the recommended pitches will work in your favor.
One of the most unique new options involves a key figure most people don't even think about; the umps. Umpires now have their own distinct attitudes and animations, and more importantly, each ump has his own idea of what the strike zone is, so pay attention and comply. Fielding can also be a lot of fun as each individual player's abilities will determine his ease in making catches and throwing out runners.
There are plenty of features to keep you entertained; Home Run Derby and King of the Diamond let you focus on honing specific skills. You can choose to play one exhibition, an entire season, the playoffs or even Rivalry Mode, where you can set up multi-game rivalries against other players or the AI.
MLB 07 looks and sounds great. It's amazing how specific the announcers' comments are, players look like their real-world counterparts and stadiums have the intricate details that will make any fan proud.
PROTIP: Be a picky batter. Pitchers will throw plenty of pitches outside the strike zone and there's no need to chase them all.
