Although gamers were annoyed with last year's Major League Baseball 2K9, we enjoyed the refined batting system, intricate pitching controls and quality presentation. That said, Visual Concepts made some tune-ups for Major League Baseball 2K10. Despite minor issues, these improvements make this year's game much better. Baseball fans will definitely want to step up to the plate.
The biggest thing you'll notice is the new MyPlayer mode. You'll walk right into a minor league career, customizing your players' numbers and skills, then put them into different situations to get them ready for the big stage. You can play games out in real time, or skip right to your scenarios, a huge plus. Living out each game makes you feel like a baseball player, while skipping to your moments provide the notion of what's going to be of importance in your career.
While enjoyable, this still needs work. Some of the situations repeat over the course of the season, depending on which position you choose. This isn't entirely bad, as small things may change (such as who's throwing or waiting to tag you out). But you'll definitely feel deja vu. Just shake it off and keep going, as skill rewards and a Hall of Fame-worthy career await.
In addition, we strongly suggest experiencing Franchise mode. While it's mostly unchanged from previous years, it gives you an idea of what makes a baseball team click, right down to the precision drills, behind-the-scenes management options and the requirements to create a World Series dynasty. Besides, someone needs to put the Yankees in their place.
If you prefer straight-up baseball action, Major League Baseball 2K10 delivers in spades. Most of the gameplay is much improved this time around between the pitching and batting. Like previous versions, you'll throw pitches using a unique analog stick system, moving it one direction at the start of the pitch and twisting it the rest of the way before your marker moves outside of a circle. It takes some getting used to (don't be surprised if you throw some wild over-the-plate throws), but once you get into the groove, you'll find that it works really well.
On the other side, batting is much more realistic. This isn't a home run derby like Major League Baseball 2K9. Even with your most powerful hitter at the plate, you're not guaranteed instant success unless you hit the sweet spot, which varies depending on your pitcher. Contact, power and defensive swings are handled remarkably well with the analog stick, and the Batter's Eye gives you an idea of where you'll want to go when it comes to smacking the ball. Furthermore, your stats are continuously updated, so you'll see which areas your batter is best suited for. Sometimes a contact swing is the way to go.
Base running works amicably, with simple pushes of the analog stick directing your men to stay put on the plates or make a run for home. However, there are times when the basemen seem asleep, missing out on what's happening until, surprise, someone lands on their base. It doesn't happen often, but it's there. In addition, fielding also has its problems. It's not broken by any means, but instances occur when your player will casually walk up to a ball rather than hustle and try to get the out on a rival charging for a base. The urgency of going for the quick play isn't there. Otherwise, catching is easy enough, and lobbing the ball via the analog stick (like you did in previous games) works just fine.
Along with single player match-ups and other modes, you can hop online and play others through Xbox Live and the PlayStation Network. The action runs smoothly, and your stats update with the addition of MLB Today. This constantly updating feature (it'll pick up more as the baseball season starts in April) gives you key match-ups, new updates and other info that play an integral part in your game. If you're a baseball fan, make sure your baseball connection is up to snuff, so you can keep an eye on your performance aspects and opponents.
As for presentation, 2K Sports once again captures the smaller details. Last year's game looked good, but Major League Baseball 2K10 goes the extra stretch with better lighting (just wait until you see a night game), beautiful character animations (even the crowd gets into it, chasing after fly balls), realistic stadiums (good old Coors Field never disappoints) and a smooth frame rate. Furthermore, the Batters Eye and pitcher grids never get in the way, sitting in the middle of the action while still giving you a clear view. The replays are equally good, like they were taken straight from a TV broadcast. We didn't see any glitches either, something that plagued last year's game.
Nothing, however, can prepare you for the awesome commentary. John Kruk joins Steve Phillips and Gary Thorne in the announcer's booth, and they sound more like a cohesive unit than ever before. They come across as passionate about their sport, especially Kruk, who won't hesitate to break down how your player's doing in the big leagues. You won't get tired of them anytime soon, even if you're sore about Thorne's dismissal from ESPN. The other sound effects are great as well, from the announcing of pitches by the umpire to the roar (and jeering) of the crowds. We love the organ music too, and the alternative rock tracks don't grate on the nerves.
Play ball! While there are still some aspects that need attention, Major League Baseball 2K10 is a treat for sports fans. The MyPlayer mode is easily accessible, even to those that don't care for Franchise modes, and the improved gameplay (for the most part) and presentation make this game closer to the real thing than the competition. Imagine how much more awesome next year's will be. On that note, enjoy this one for the time being.
Final Score: 8 (out of 10)
Review courtesy of GamePlayBook.
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