The second mode that will really get some playtime will be the Season mode. As you might expect, this is the main sports mode where you go through different matchups to build your team into the number one ranked team in the league. All of the Japanese baseball teams have been replaced with American teams, and the list of players includes the current roster of MLB players. It was really surprising how intricately the individual players were incorporated into the game. At a glance, you're able to see different players' actual stats, and can name starters and put other members of the team on the bench. And of course, the cute little avatars look just like the players they represent, minus the mouths and fingers, of course. But don't let the cuteness fool you; even though it doesn't look serious, the season mode carries all the deep experiences that you would expect from any other licensed MLB game.

The final mode that will definitely keep you playing MLB Power Pros is the Wii-exclusive Wii Mode. It plays the same as the exhibition mode, just implements a new control scheme and lets you incorporate your Miis. As you might expect, this mode has you using the Wii-mote to pitch and swing your bat, very much like in the baseball mode of WiiSports. The only real difference here is the controls (which work only a little differently) and, of course, the overall look of the game.

Visually, this game doesn't offer too much in the way of eye candy, but its graphics serve their purpose, and that's all you can really ask. Players, no matter how tough they may be in real life, look very cute with their giant heads with no mouths. One really interesting thing about the look of the game is the detail of the different baseball fields. I have actually been fortunate enough to visit both RFK Stadium and Camden Yards, and both of these fields were represented extremely well in the game with an acute attention to detail.

Sound in this game is alright in small doses. Some of the tunes, especially in Success mode are pretty catchy, but can get a little unnerving when you hear them over and over. I'm guessing the developers didn't take into account people that play for hours at a time, which is no real crime, but you've been warned all the same. And you have a similar situation with the baseball announcers. If you're just sitting down for a game or two, they're not bad. But if you're in for the long haul, you may want to turn the volume down because their repeated phrasing wears on the ears fast.

MLB Power Pros is a great game. From the ultra-engrossing success mode to the unexpectedly deep season mode, there's a lot to love about this game. I'm very proud of 2K for localizing this game and finally bringing this Japanese hit stateside. Sure, it was a risk, but I think it paid off in the form of a unique and memorable sports title. If you give this one a chance, I'm almost certain you will enjoy it.

By Amanda L. Kondolojy
CCC Freelance Writer

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