Speaking of that barnyard. The music in this game is less than stellar, and in stages such as the aforementioned home of Old McDonald, appropriately themed music will play. In that stage, for example, there is sort of a bluegrass tune playing. All these background tracks play on loop, and yes, they are annoying. The only real variance is that the music will speed up if runners are on base. As for the sound effects, there is not a lot to talk about. Whether a runner is out or safe will be pronounced, and you can faintly here a muffled crack of the bat or the thud of a ball smacking onto a fielder's glove.

As we touched on a little bit above, All-Stars is controlled almost entirely with the stylus. Doodling different paths towards the batters box will execute a variety of pitches, and slicing upwards will swing the bat. Overall, it is smooth with the main trouble spot coming in pitch variation. Too often you will draw out a change-up only to throw yet another curveball. The designs look different enough, but apparently not enough for the DS to recognize specific commands. Additionally, the sketch for the knuckleball is absolutely ludicrous. The simple control set-up works effectively, so frustrations should be kept low, although there is always room for improvement.

Unfortunately, MLB 2K8 Fantasy All-Stars needs a bit of tightening up in one too many places to be a long-term travel time solution for all you baseball fans out there. The foundation is in place to build a quality title, and certainly the prospect of next year's offering is bright. Still, for those seeking a good way to take baseball on the road, this is not quite it. A definite pass for the older crowd, but kids will undoubtedly get a kick out it for a short time. Taken as a whole, All-Stars lack of options and depth in gameplay will leave many desiring much more.

By Tom Kelly
CCC Freelance Writer