MLB Power Pros 2008

Rating Everyone Genre sports Publisher 2k Sports External Links Official MLB Website

What’s up gamers!?! Been awhile, but I’m back and glad to say that I’m starting with a great title this time. If you’ve kept up with titles that are only available on the Japan side of gaming then you’ve heard of the MLB Power Pros series. For the nearly twenty years Japan has played out there love of America’s past time through MLB games like this, though none have reached our shores before 2007. Like last year's release, MLB Power Pros 2008 scores again with its instantly accessible gameplay and multiple modes. Hardcore ball-players may prefer a more serious simulation of the sport, but others will have no reservations about slamming home runs and scampering around bases with miniature legs.

Rather than using photo-realistic and digitized players, MLB Power Pros 2008 uses super-deformed characters without noses or mouths. Their endearing animations will put a smile on your face, especially when they spin to the ground after a strikeout. While the players aren't detailed, 2K Sports did manage to include realistic-looking ballparks such as Fenway Park and Coors Field. Not everything is ideal, however. The background music isn't that special and the announcer has a tendency of repeating himself. ("It looks like an extended lead for THE ROCKIES!")

Playing MLB Power Pros on the Wii is fun because of its straightforward controls. With pitches, you simply select the specialty pitch of your choice and point your Wii remote where you want it to go. Hitting the ball consists of placing your bat in the right position and pressing the button to swing at just the right time. Fielding takes a little practice, as you must use the D-pad on the Wii remote to hurl the ball to the corresponding base. However, it all ties together into a well-conducted playing experience. That said, you can switch to one-handed Wii remote gameplay to fling pitches and swing the bat. Unfortunately, toggling to this option removes fielding control, leaving it in the hands of a somewhat capable computer-controlled player. If you prefer a more traditional gameplay method, the option to use a Wii Classic Controller is available.

Aside from its carefree presentation and easy controls, MLB Power Pros 2008 also offers various modes. Exhibition Mode gets right into a game, either by yourself or against a friend. Success Mode takes a role-playing approach as you work through the minor leagues on your way to Major League Baseball success. Season Mode lets you pick a team and run them through an entire season in the hopes of winning the World Series. MLB Life Mode plots your steps through your career as you take part in extracurricular activities (like dating the super-deformed cuties) while keeping your playing skills fresh. The Home Run Challenge pits you and a friend in a ten-pitch competition to see who can get the most balls over the fence. If you need to work on your batting and pitching, a Practice Mode is also available.

Although the game has multiple modes, it would've been nice to have online play. I was also a bit puzzled as to why it came out midseason instead of several months ago. Release timing and lack of online aside, MLB Power Pros 2008 offers a fun game of baseball that anyone, young or old, can pick up and play. Get over the cutesy graphics and unsophisticated gameplay and have a grand slam of a time. If you are looking for something a little more than Wii Sports Baseball, CHECK THIS GAME OUT!