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Madden NFL 2007
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Pub.: EA
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Dev.:
EA
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Score: 8.6 |
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ESPN Major League Baseball Review
by 007
When Sega released World Series Baseball 2K3 last spring, the game set new standards and could easily be dubbed as one of the best baseball games ever made. The only thing missing last year was the Xbox Live component which was clearly a disappointment. Now one year later, and Sega has given gamers another installment of the big swinging franchise, and it doesn't seem to have made the same impact it made one year ago.
Features:
-ESPN Presentation
-Momentum gameplay
-New animations
-Improved pitching system
-Take the game online
Gameplay:
When Sega introduced the ESPN name to its sports titles, it brought forth many changes to the game - especially with its design and presentation. ESPN MLB Baseball brings a new atmosphere to the plate, but there really isn't much done to make it a significant change from last year version. There are new animations, a more interactive stadium, some better analysis and commentary, but really nothing spectacular or something we wouldn't expect. To put it simply, there haven't been many additions or improvements that have "wowed" gamers. It's not to say that Sega hasn't made a valiant effort to deliver baseball gamers a solid title, this year's installment seems to update certain areas of the game then actually improve all areas.
The actual gameplay of ESPN MLB Baseball has pretty much remained intact from last year's installment, which is a good thing. Of course, there have been improvements made such as the confidence system. Players will have a confidence meter that will change based on the game being played. Pitchers can gain confidence by striking out players or lose confidence by giving up home runs or multiple hits. Players can gain confidence by stealing bases or hitting home runs, or lose confidence by missing throws or hitting into double plays. This new addition certainly does alter the style of gameplay being played, and it can make a difference in games. This option can be turned off if not liked.
The pitching system has been updated which new pitches, pitch animations, pitch speed, and pitching momentum being added to the mix. Pitchers can pitch with the momentum system, but also must be wary of the stamina that will affect the pitcher as the game goes on. The bigger and harder the pitch is, the more it will affect the pitcher. Constantly throw hard at the batters throughout the game and you'll be forced to go to the bullpen early and often. If you don't, it's going to be a long game for your defense. There have been more pitches added, but they've only been added to the list from last year. With all that has been added to the pitching system this year, it can take some time getting used to because so many things now come into place - momentum, effort, stamina, pitch selection. You want your pitcher to play well, but you definitely want to get the most out of that pitcher.
The batting system comes with the addition of true-aim batting. This brings new selection to the batters which results in better aiming and hitting. The downside to this style of batting is that after so many games it can become relatively easy to get the ball in play or even send the ball extra yards. There hasn't been much done with the fielding this year except for a speed burst button that has been added to the mix. Players can get a little extra speed when they're attempting to catch a long fly ball that might have been impossible to catch in last year's version. The throwing has been improved, and it's also easily to make bad throws which lead into extra plays for the opposing team.
The modes of gameplay haven't really been changed, but you will find two new modes - dual mode and the other being the first person view mode. The big new addition to ESPN MLB Baseball this year is the new first person mode. Just like ESPN NFL Football you'll be seeing out of the player's helmet, but getting acquainted with this new view is a very difficult task. Batting brings up the most trouble, because you never really know if the pitch you're getting is right on the money or out of the zone. Fielding isn't better at all - the first person view will constantly keep changing to players you're throwing to and things never seem to be in place.
Xbox Live Impressions -
ESPN MLB Baseball is the first baseball title Sega has brought online. However, this time Sega has provided the online experience with more online options and settings such as difficult, stadium, time of day, and many more options. Playing against another person online runs very smoothly with minimal lag, if not nothing. There will be downloadable roster updates, but don't expect to be able to use those updates online (like other Sega online sports games).
Graphics:
One of the main issues with this year's installment is the visuals ESPN presents us with. There haven't been very many improvements, which is really disappointing. To a point, it sometimes seems that some areas of the game haven't been touched. Animations seem to be the biggest improvement to the game, with slides, catches, throws, and hits looking more realistic. Like other years, player visuals are a mixed bag. Some players will look completely identical to their real life counterparts, while other doesn't even come close. Stadiums are improved, and the crowd looks better than it ever did. In the end, it doesn't seem like things add up visually. It's easy to say that there could have been so much more done to this game visually then what the final product presents us with.
Audio:
With the ESPN name comes the traditional ESPN play by play and soundtrack, and this year's title makes no mistake of that. Jon Miller will provide this year's play by play commentary, and does a real good job covering the game. From there on, the game doesn't sound very good. The crowd isn't anything you would hear in an actual baseball game, and the sound effects aren't anything special. Dolby Digital 5.1 is supported, but it isn't utilized fully to be truly appreciated.
Overall:
ESPN Major League Baseball is still one of the better baseball titles out on the market, but it high above the competition. This year ESPN is going to have to deal with EA Sports' MVP Baseball and Acclaim's All Star Baseball, and both of those titles are going to offer some unique features that will make them just as appealing as ESPN is. The one thing gamers will appreciate with this year's title is the online capabilities, which are clearly one of the games strong points. Those who have enjoyed the pervious installments of Sega's baseball franchise shouldn't shy away from this year's title, just be aware of what the competition brings to the table.
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| Rating |
| Gameplay: | 9 |
| Graphics: | 8 |
| Sound: | 8 |
| Value: | 7 |
| Tilt: | 8 |
| Overall: 8 |
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