2K Sports' baseball series returns with an all new season in Major League Baseball 2K8. However, the newest addition is more than simple stat changes. The developers gutted out MLB 2K7 and reworked key aspects to bring players the most realistic baseball sim in history.

In addition to working out many of the bugs and kinks that plagued 2K7, particularly the unreliable catching system, the developers refined their approach toward hitting and pitching. Where the ball hits the bat will matter, so players will no longer be able to score homeruns when the ball hits near the handle. This approach makes the hitting feel more natural and rewarding. Pitching was also revamped to compliment the new hitting engine. Players will need to match pre-designated gestures using the right analog stick in order to throw different kinds of pitches, which should be more interactive than pressing a button for a pitch.

Other new features making their way into 2K8 include 90 minor-league teams, all with authentic uniforms and a host of minor-league stadiums. There will also be a number of special unlockable teams that include both current and legendary players. However, the one feature sure to grab people's attention is the trading card game. Players earn baseball cards by completing tasks and challenges. Duplicate cards can be sold for credits, which can in turn be used to purchase packs that hold ten cards each and may come with a special stadium or team. Once players have enough cards, they can combine them all to create a team to take online for some head-to-head competition against players using other baseball card teams.

Major League Baseball 2K8's stunning graphics make full use of the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3's capabilities, with highly detailed uniforms, players and top-notch physics reproduction. The Wii version will make use of the system's unique motion-sensing control to provide a greater interactive experience. Baseball fans should keep an eye out for it, scheduled to hit shelves in March.