MLB 2K8 wasn’t a “bad” game per se, but it wasn’t a very good one, either, which is why I gave it a 5 out of 10 last spring. I’m really hoping that 2K Sports can up the ante this year, if only for the sake of baseball fans who don’t own PS3s — since the ones who do have the superior option of MLB 09 The Show.
There hasn’t really been any information on 2K9, aside from the fact that Tim Lincecum is on the cover, but sports gaming destination Pastapadre.com has obtained a list of features/improvements in the game, and it’s quite extensive. It looks like the trading cards feature has been completely overhauled, and last year’s “great idea, poor execution” analog pitching controls appear to have been simplified. In addition, gamers will finally be able to jump directly into the playoffs without playing through a regular season first.
2K Sports has also apparently implemented a system allowing users to create their own replays and upload them to the Web, similar to those available in 2008’s EA Sports titles. As for PS3 owners, they’ll be delighted to hear that the game will have full Trophy support. There are all kinds of other tweaks as well, such as to the game’s hitting, fielding, and baserunning areas — be sure to check out the full list for all of them.
I’m still waiting to see some more on Major League Baseball 2K9 — after all, 2K Sports hasn’t even released any screenshots of the game yet. But if it turns out to be as good as it sounds, then Sony may actually have some competition on the baseball field this year. Hit up the official Web site for MLB 2K9 if you want more info.
