PlayStation 3
Released in 2012 by Sony Computer Entertainment
Grade: A-
The Show is always excellent, but this one’s minor “upgrades” have me scratching my head.
Where it falls in the series
The Show on PS3 runs from 07 to 16, and PS4 versions start with 14.
Praises and gripes
The gameplay is top-notch, with realistic action, deep logic, and millions of options. One of those options is “fast play,” which cuts out extra moments between pitches, so you can play 9 innings in under 60 minutes. Unfortunately, in this version, fast play contains tiny little cutscenes a few times per inning, which are annoying as hell! I’ve given the previous Show games a solid A, but I’m going A- this time, just for this reason. That sounds nitpicky, but consider that you’re playing 60-minute games, 162 games a season. Fast play is an absolute necessity for that commitment. Why did they screw with it?!
Okay, that rant is done. Let’s get to the other updates. Now there are new physics that make the ball move in more unpredictable ways after being hit. It’s a nice change, but doesn’t affect the gameplay much.
There’s a new simplified pitching system, called “pulse pitching,” where a circle quickly gets bigger and smaller and you try to time your pitch at its smallest point. It’s hard on the eyes and diminishes the dynamics of the two existing systems. Experienced players are encouraged to use the analog system, where you move the stick down and up with perfect precision, which I find extremely difficult. I still favor the classic pitching meter, which swings slowly back and quickly up, and you time your presses for power and accuracy.
The analog controls in the field seem to work better than last year, and the analog hitting feels fine too. You can opt for the simple classic controls still, which is a great option to have.
Graphically, the game contains some new animations, especially with players’ expressions and reactions. Overall though, it looks about the same as last year. The presentation is tasteful, and the sound is great.
I read in other reviews that franchise mode is improved with better trade logic, and that the “Road to the Show” mode is much more rewarding, with less tediousness and more raw fun.
You can’t really go wrong with The Show, but I’d go with a version where fast play is actually fast play.