MLB 2K13 Review for PlayStation 3 (PS3)

System: PS3, Xbox 360*
Dev: Visual Concepts
Pub: 2K Sports
Release: March 5, 2013
Players: 1-2
Screen Resolution: 480p-1080p

“The most interesting part, however, is how insightful the commentators actually are. New players will especially appreciate the ongoing dialog because they're force-fed information about how to improve their performance. I was specifically treated to several derogatory remarks about the way I insist upon swinging at every single pitch. Apparently that's not how a major leaguer should play. Screw you, commentators.”

The only thing that MLB 2K12 really had to brag about was the introduction of the MLB Today Season Mode. This mode allowed players "to play a major league season at the same pace as their favorite teams," and Visual Concepts was generous enough to include the mode again in 2K13.

MLB 2K13 Screenshot

But this year's edition has nothing of its own to brag about. Though, if you really loved the "Franchise" and "My Player" modes in 2K12, you’re in for a treat. They’re identical.

The problem is that MLB 2K13 doesn't feel like it was made by people who love baseball. It feels like it was made by a company who used to love baseball and is trying to milk a couple of extra bucks out of fans before Major League Baseball takes their contract away.

And this is probably fairly accurate.

2K has lost over 30 million dollars on the MLB franchise thus far, so it's unsurprising that this year's edition doesn't have a lot of heart. But, by releasing a string of semi-passable titles year after year, 2K is really accomplishing nothing aside from forcing baseball fans to sell their Xboxes and pick up PlayStation 3s. After all, The Show doesn't seem to have the same level of disregard for fans.

For all of its faults, though, MLB 2K13 isn't an unplayable disaster. It’s definitely hard to look at, but the mechanics make up a little ground. However, you may want to listen to my advice from last year:

Considering how little 2K Sports has changed the title from last year's edition, you'll probably get more bang for your buck if you just check out the bargain bin at your local retailer for a copy of MLB 2K11.

By
Josh Engen
News Director
Date: March 6, 2013

RATING OUT OF 5

RATING DESCRIPTION

2.0

Graphics
Completely unacceptable for a major release this late in the console generation

4.0

Control
They’ve been polished since last year, but they’re nearly identical.

4.5

Music / Sound FX / Voice Acting
The colour commentary is the best part of MLB 2K13, which is kind of disappointing.

3.0

Play Value
Just buy MLB 2K12. You’ll get the same experience.

3.2

Overall Rating - Fair
Not an average. See Rating legend below for a final score breakdown.

Review Rating Legend
0.1 - 1.9 = Avoid	2.5 - 2.9 = Average	3.5 - 3.9 = Good	4.5 - 4.9 = Must Buy
2.0 - 2.4 = Poor	3.0 - 3.4 = Fair	4.0 - 4.4 = Great	5.0 = The Best

Game Features:

Total Control Pitching & Hitting - The original analog pitching and hitting controls remain the benchmark. Unmatched control and realism allow you to feel the action on both sides of the plate.

My Player - Experience the journey from Minor Leagues to MLB stardom. Choose your path, customize your player, and work your way to the top.

MLB Today - Take the field in an authentic environment pulled from the real life MLB season. Featuring the latest rosters and lineups, and relevant commentary and stats overlays.

MLB Today Season - Play through the full 2013 MLB season, one day at a time. Real results combine with yours, allowing you to compete directly with real life MLB teams.

Dynamic Tendencies - Player performance fluctuates dynamically as player ratings update from pitch to pitch and at-bat to at-bat.

Inside Edge & Stats Inc. - Strategize for each at-bat with authentic scouting reports and data from Inside Edge & Stats Inc.

Franchise - Championship teams are built in the front office, and crowned on the field. Can you master both sides of the ball and build a dynasty?

Postseason - Relive the 2012 Postseason, or customize your own bracket and crown a new champion.