MLB The Show 25 PlayStation 5 Review … a home run!
Summary: Take me down to the ball game ... with MLB The Show 25 on the PlayStation 5... and XSX!
4.5
Home run
MLB The Show 25 (*) arrives on the PlayStation 5 (including Xbox Series X), continuing the series’ tradition of delivering an authentic and immersive baseball simulation and impressively, it’s been 20-years since this franchise launched that is a testament in itself. With that said, developer San Diego Studio has consistently refined the gameplay mechanic of this series and MLB The Show 25 is no exception to this rule. The hitting, pitching, and fielding mechanics have been further fine-tuned, offering a satisfying balance of realism and accessibility.
(*) Major League Baseball
New animations and AI improvements contribute to a more dynamic and unpredictable gameplay experience that creates that authentic baseball experience and sure, there are a few odd facial animations here and there but all in good, it channels baseball to the “t”. The PlayStation 5 DualSense controller continues to play a vital role, providing subtle haptic feedback that enhances the sense of immersion. The feeling of connecting with a powerful hit, or the subtle vibrations of a close pitch, adds a layer of realism that elevates the overall experience of the latest version of MLB. Further, controls can be tweaked to suit your preference and skill level.
PlayStation 5 users will be happy to know that the power of this next-gen console is put to good use, with noticeable enhancements in visual fidelity and gameplay smoothness. Player models are more detailed, stadium environments are more vibrant, and animations are more fluid, creating a truly lifelike representation of America’s pastime. The game leverages the PS5’s processing power to deliver incredibly smooth frame rates, even during the most intense moments of gameplay. This is especially important for a sport that relies on precise timing and reflexes.
Additionally, MLB The Show 25 offers a wealth of game modes to cater to every type of baseball fan. Road to the Show has been expanded with even deeper career progression, allowing players to experience the journey from amateur leagues to the Major Leagues with greater detail and nuance – including building your own player and fine-tuning their abilities as your recruited from a scout in high school. Franchise mode remains a robust simulation, offering in-depth management options for those who enjoy the strategic side of the game that expands the scope of this title.
Lastly, Diamond Dynasty continues to evolve, providing a compelling card-collecting and online competition experience. Also, the continued and improved story lines mode, that helps to teach the history of baseball, and the great players of the past, continues to be a great mode and meeting these stars in the virtual world. All in all, another sturdy instalment of the MLB series that is a joy to play on the PlayStation 5.
Graphics & Audio
The PS5’s capabilities shine in the game’s presentation and really succeeds at “take taking me down to the ball game”. Lighting and shadow effects are more realistic and the level of detail in stadiums and player models is truly impressive and it screams baseball. The audio design is also top-notch, with authentic crowd noise, realistic sound effects and commentary that adds to the atmosphere. With that said, MLB The Show 25 does a very good job of making the player feel like they are watching and playing a real baseball game.
Final Thoughts?
MLB The Show 25 on the PlayStation 5 is a testament to the series’ commitment to excellence. It delivers a refined and immersive baseball experience on this console, with stunning visuals, engaging gameplay plus a wealth of baseball content. While it builds upon the foundation of previous entries, the improvements and refinements make it a worthwhile addition to any baseball fan’s collection. Best of all, the latest version of MLB, particularly on the PS5, solidifies its position as the premier baseball simulation on the market and is a home run!
Recommended!
Game Details
-
PS Plus required for online play
-
In-game purchases optional
-
Supports up to 8 online players with PS Plus
-
Online play optional
-
1 – 4 players
-
Remote Play supported
-
Vibration function and trigger effect supported (DualSense wireless controller)
-
Game Help supported