MLB The Show ’24, developed by San Diego Studio and published by Sony/MLB Advanced Media, continues to assert its dominance in the baseball genre with another solid installment – though some of its foundations are starting to show their age. But while it may not be the most visually stunning game on the market, MLB The Show ’24 shines where it counts, offering engaging gameplay mechanics, a plethora of modes, and innovative features that keep players coming back for more. We checked it out on a PS5.
One of the standout features of MLB The Show ’24 is its narrative-driven approach, particularly in the Storylines mode. Whether you’re reliving iconic moments from baseball history or creating your own path to glory, the game’s storytelling elements add depth and immersion to the overall experience. The addition of Storylines that focus specifically on legends like Derek Jeter and the Negro Leagues demonstrates San Diego Studio’s commitment to evolving the franchise beyond traditional gameplay and anchoring it into the history of the sport.
On the field, MLB The Show ’24 delivers familiar but refined gameplay mechanics – clearly a “don’t fix what isn’t broken approach” there. Batting remains largely unchanged, offering a satisfying experience with clean connections and responsive controls. Defensive improvements, including new animations and Impact Plays, add depth to the gameplay, making defensive maneuvers feel more impactful and rewarding – though more casual players of the series will hardly notice the difference.
But while the game still excels in many areas, it’s not without its flaws. Visually, MLB The Show ’24 may not impress everyone, with some aspects of the graphics feeling dated by today’s PS5 standards. However, the overall presentation, including the stylish user interface and authentic broadcast overlays, does help immerse players in the baseball experience – even if it there’s a last gen feel to it.
In terms of game modes, MLB The Show ’24 offers a variety of options to suit every player. From the narrative-driven Road to the Show mode featuring female athletes to the addictive Diamond Dynasty mode, there’s no shortage of content to explore. However, some modes, like Franchise, may feel lacking in comparison to others, with outdated features and clunky UI design.
Despite its shortcomings, MLB The Show ’24 remains a compelling package that builds upon the series’ strong foundation. With its engaging storytelling, refined gameplay mechanics, and wealth of content, it’s a must-have for any baseball fan looking to experience the thrill of America’s pastime in the digital world. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the series, MLB The Show ’24 offers something for everyone, making it a standout title in the sports gaming landscape and the go-to choice for MLB enthusiasts.
Score: 7.9/10
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