MLB 2006
From Sony Computer Entertainment

MLB 2006 features numerous gameplay enhancements for the upcoming season. The all-new Branch Point Technology (BPT) provides seamless fielding transitions and smooth base running; the all-new PlayMaker Fielding Marker provides better fielding interaction with your player attributes with your skill level in order to make the play; all-new Release Point Pitching helps determine your ability to hit spots in the strike zone; a deeper Franchise Mode; and an all-new Career Mode where you call the shots. With returning gameplay favorites including EyeToy functionality and online playability through 989SportsOnline.com, MLB 2006 promises a true-to-life experience for every pitch, hit, catch and throw from the moment you step onto the diamond.

• Amazon Sales Rank: #16320 in Video Games
• Brand: Sony
• Model: 711719734727
• Published on: 2005-03
• Released on: 2006-09-08
• ESRB Rating: Everyone
• Platform: PlayStation2
• Number of items: 1
• Dimensions: .50" h x 5.25" w x 7.50" l, .50 pounds

Best MLB yet BUT......
I have played every MLB game in the series so far and the 2006 edition is clearly the best. Gameplay is still basically the same but they've made so many improvements and additions that it's much more realistic than ever.

One of my favorite additions is that they've finally allowed wild pitches/passed balls which can dramatically change the outcome of the game (just like real life.) I'm also pleased that the new Washington Nationals and their stadium have been included, in past games 989 Sports hasn't always been as up to date as they should've been.

I'm disappointed that Vin Scully is not part of the announcing team any more and Dave Campbell is as boring as ever. The commentary repeats way too often, there needs to a wider range of comments during the game.

Animation has been improved, errors actually HAPPEN this time out but the injuries still aren't quite as realistic. Some of my players had to leave the game but are never put on the disabled list. I wish they would be so that I'd be pressed to make smart roster moves to compensate.

I've only played about half the season so far and unfortunately, I will have to confirm what other reviews have said so far, the game WILL FREEZE at times usually from the 8th inning on. Once the game froze after I had beaten the team I was playing! It's very frustrating to come back in the bottom of the 9th inning to lead the game only to have it freeze up and you have to replay it again. Sony & 989 Sports needs to fix this problem and offer a replacement to all of us who bought the game as soon as possible.

So, other than the freezing issue (which while not happening constantly, it happens enough to anger you) this is the best MLB entry yet.

As good as there is...
Really, really impressed with this game. The graphics are sweet, and the attention to detail behind every batter, from Sammy's pre-at-bat rituals, to Gary Sheffield's waving of the bat is dead-on. The Stadiums look fantastic. The gameplay is incredibly realistic: for example, if you bust a fastball high-and-tight you can handcuff a hitter and shatter his bat. Plus the fielder's aren't perfect, just like in real baseball. I hit a line drive smash that caremed off the diving third baseman's glove, to the shortstop, who knew to pick the ball up and try to make the out at first, only to throw the ball over the leaping firstbaseman's head---VERY COOL. Career mode is really fun, slogging through the minors and trying to earn playing time. The game gives you room to interact with the manager, allowing you to ask for more playing time if you're performing well, ask to get traded or called up to the next level, or even move up in the order if you're swinging a hot bat. The commentary is some of the most intelligent to date, and the intricacies of the background sound are scary good. My only complaint is the crowds don't suspend my disbelief, if you know what I mean. Other than this, this is one of the best baseball games that has ever come out. HIGHLY recommended...especially once you compare it to ESPN's 2K5, which is a vastly inferior product when held to the light of this gem. BUY IT.

Best Basball game of 2005
This game is very impressive. The fielding, pitching, baserunning and hitting are all so smooth. Turning the double play is a thing of beauty and pitchers actually matter. The graphics are even amazing, every player has his stance and facial look. The stadiums are also incredible. Don't believe any bad reviews of this game, you must try it out if you care about a realistic game in any way. I have played MVP and 2k5 and MLB "06 destroys them in graphics, realism and fun. This has all the behind the scenes greatness of Madden "05 but for baseball. This is a must have for any old fashioned baseball purist.