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CRITIK

MLB The Show 23

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of MLB The Show 23
Item: MLB The Show 23
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2023

GenresSimulation, Sports, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableMar 24, 2023

PlatformPlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, PlayStation 5

DeveloperSony Interactive Entertainment San Diego Studio

Overview

Shock The Game. Own The Show.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Critik Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

100%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions of the critics regarding the Story of MLB The Show 23 are largely positive, with the majority of critics praising the inclusion of the Negro Leagues storylines as a standout feature. CGMagazine, COGconnected, Comicbook.com, Dexerto, Game Informer, GameSpot, GamingBolt, God is a Geek, IGN France, New York Daily News, PlayStation Universe, Push Square, The Loadout, Wccftech, Pure Xbox, Nintendo Life, and NintendoWorldReport all express their appreciation for the historical and educational dimension that the Negro Leagues storylines bring to the game. They highlight the accurate representation of the times, excellent narration by Bob Kendrick, and the opportunity to learn more about the game from a new perspective. In terms of negatives, there is a lack of specific criticism towards the Story of MLB The Show 23. While Dexerto mentions the absence of remarkable gameplay innovations, it does not detract from the overall positive sentiment towards the game. The critics seem to be focused on the positive aspects of the storylines, with no major flaws or criticisms mentioned. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the Story of MLB The Show 23 is a very good addition to the game. The inclusion of the Negro Leagues storylines is widely praised for its historical and educational value, as well as its engaging and entertaining gameplay. Critics like GameSpot, PlayStation Universe, and Nintendo Life specifically mention the captivating and informative nature of the storylines. The positive sentiment expressed by the majority of the critics indicates that the Story of MLB The Show 23 is a well-received and successful feature of the game.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics love MLB The Show 23 for its inclusion of Negro Leagues storylines, praising its historical, educational, and engaging gameplay aspects. While some note a lack of gameplay innovations, overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with critics highlighting the captivating and informative nature of the storylines.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

83%

Mixed (50-79)

17%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

In analyzing the opinions of multiple reviewers regarding the gameplay of MLB The Show 23, it is evident that the majority of critics had a positive view of the game's gameplay. Many reviewers praised the improvements and additions made to the gameplay mechanics. CGMagazine commended the updates to fielding, stating that higher fielding attributes made a noticeable difference in player performance. Game Informer mentioned that new animations and quirks added to the smooth and gorgeous gameplay, making it more skill-based. GamingTrend highlighted the fluid, responsive, and intuitive gameplay, with improvements in swing feedback and pitching and throwing timing. These positive opinions indicate that MLB The Show 23 has successfully enhanced the on-field action and provided an enjoyable and satisfying gameplay experience. While the overall sentiment towards the gameplay of MLB The Show 23 was largely positive, there were a few critics who expressed more mixed opinions or mentioned some areas for improvement. Digitally Downloaded stated that the gameplay was barely different from the previous iteration, with only slight improvements in fielding and AI. The Games Machine mentioned changes in the defensive phase after a hit, making it more challenging to execute a perfect play. Wccftech noted that while the core gameplay was solid and enjoyable, there weren't many significant changes or innovations. These criticisms suggest that while the gameplay of MLB The Show 23 was generally well-received, some reviewers felt that it lacked significant advancements or improvements in certain aspects. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the gameplay of MLB The Show 23 was very good. The positive feedback from reviewers such as Attack of the Fanboy, COGconnected, and PlayStation Universe, who praised the gameplay improvements, realistic feel, and varied playstyles, supports this conclusion. The majority of critics found the gameplay to be enjoyable, satisfying, and responsive. While there were a few minor criticisms and suggestions for further enhancements, the overall sentiment towards the gameplay of MLB The Show 23 was overwhelmingly positive. This indicates that the game successfully delivered a solid and engaging baseball experience, catering to both hardcore simulation players and casual gamers.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Reviewers overwhelmingly praised MLB The Show 23's gameplay improvements, including enhanced fielding, new animations, and intuitive mechanics. While some critics noted minor issues like lack of major innovations, the general consensus was positive, with the game offering a satisfying and enjoyable baseball experience for all types of players.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

52%

Mixed (50-79)

43%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The opinions of the critics regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of MLB The Show 23 are quite varied. Many critics praised the game's visuals, highlighting its stunning graphics, impressive stadium details, and realistic player animations. Critics such as COGconnected and GamingTrend commended the game for faithfully recreating stadiums and capturing the authentic feel of being at a major league ballpark. IGN France also mentioned the visuals as being impressive, with detailed graphics and fluid animations. The addition of new animations was also highlighted by Attack of the Fanboy and Game Informer, who noted that these animations contributed to the overall gorgeous gameplay experience. On the other hand, some critics expressed disappointment with certain aspects of the graphics and visual design. Comicbook.com mentioned that while the gameplay animations looked fantastic, the graphics themselves left the reviewer unimpressed. Digitally Downloaded stated that the graphics engine had not been improved from the previous year, which could be a disappointment for some players. Hardcore Gamer also criticized the visuals, describing them as showing their age, with old assets and a lack of ray tracing technology. Push Square went even further, stating that the visuals were in dire need of an overhaul, with stale graphics and drab lighting. Overall, the consensus among the critics is somewhat mixed. While there were several positive comments regarding the graphics and visual design, with praise for the stunning visuals, impressive stadium details, and realistic animations, there were also criticisms regarding the graphics engine not being improved, outdated assets, and the need for an overhaul. However, it is worth noting that some critics, such as Dexerto and The Loadout, were particularly impressed with the visuals and considered them to be fantastic and authentic. Ultimately, it seems that while MLB The Show 23 has its strengths in terms of graphics and visual design, there are also areas that could use improvement to meet the expectations of some players and critics.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics are divided on MLB The Show 23's graphics and visual design. Some praise the stunning visuals, authentic stadium details, and realistic animations, while others criticize outdated assets and the lack of improvement in the graphics engine. Overall, opinions vary, with some calling for an overhaul while others find the visuals fantastic and authentic.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

43%

Mixed (50-79)

50%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

In terms of the sound design and music of MLB The Show 23, the opinions of the critics are generally positive. COGconnected praises the audio upgrades, highlighting the accurate sounds for hits and the addition of teams celebrating in the dugout. They also mention that the sound design captures the atmosphere of a baseball stadium, with realistic sound effects and a dynamic soundtrack, as noted by IGN France. Hardcore Gamer also commends the improvements in crowd chants, cheers, and sound effects on the field, adding to the overall realism of the game. God is a Geek further supports this sentiment by stating that the game sounds great, with immersive audio that adds to the realism. However, there are a few criticisms regarding the sound design and music. Attack of the Fanboy criticizes the generic commentary and unbalanced audio in the storyline mode. Gaming Age mentions that the sound design on the Switch version is not as good as on other consoles, with crowd noises sounding less crisp and the sound of the ball coming off the bat sounding different. Nintendo Life also points out the lack of a narrative-driven mode like NBA 2K's MyPlayer, which could use improvement. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the sound design and music of MLB The Show 23 are generally positive. The improvements in audio upgrades, realistic sound effects, and immersive ambience are highly praised by multiple critics, such as COGconnected, Hardcore Gamer, and God is a Geek. Additionally, the new announcing team and reduced recycling of commentary anecdotes are appreciated, as mentioned by Comicbook.com and New Game Network. However, there are some criticisms regarding generic commentary, unbalanced audio, and the lack of a narrative-driven mode. Despite these minor flaws, the overall sentiment is that the sound design and music contribute positively to the overall experience of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics praise MLB The Show 23 for its immersive sound design capturing the stadium atmosphere and realistic gameplay sounds. However, some criticize generic commentary and audio issues on the Switch version. Overall, the game's audio upgrades and improvements are well-received, enhancing the gameplay experience.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

83%

Mixed (50-79)

17%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in MLB The Show 23 has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from the critics. Bob Kendrick's narration for the Negro League storylines is particularly praised for its immaculate delivery and depth. Critics such as COGconnected and Comicbook.com highlight how Kendrick's narration adds to the storytelling experience, with Comicbook.com specifically mentioning that it is both captivating and enlightening. The passion put into the project by Kendrick, as noted by Dexerto, is also evident in his narration. IGN France further emphasizes that Kendrick's narration adds to the realism and authenticity of the game. The New York Daily News commends Kendrick for delivering deep insights and backstories into each player's career, further solidifying the positive reception of his voice acting. Additionally, the commentary services of Jon 'Boog' Sciambi and Chris Singleton, as mentioned by Push Square, are noted to add flavor to the stories presented in the game. In terms of negatives, there are no specific criticisms mentioned by the critics regarding the voice acting in MLB The Show 23. This suggests that the voice acting was generally well-received and did not have any major flaws or issues that stood out to the critics. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the voice acting in MLB The Show 23 is of high quality and greatly enhances the gaming experience. The positive reception of Bob Kendrick's narration, particularly for the Negro League storylines, highlights the depth and authenticity it brings to the game. The lack of negative feedback further supports the notion that the voice acting is consistently praised. With the addition of commentary services by Jon 'Boog' Sciambi and Chris Singleton, the overall sentiment towards the voice acting in MLB The Show 23 is overwhelmingly positive.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics rave about the top-notch voice acting in MLB The Show 23, especially Bob Kendrick's narration for the Negro League storylines, praised for its depth and authenticity. No major criticisms were found, confirming the overall high quality and immersive experience brought by the voice acting, including commentary by Jon 'Boog' Sciambi and Chris Singleton.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

20%

Mixed (50-79)

80%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In terms of the technical performance of MLB The Show 23, the PlayStation 5 (PS5) received mixed reviews from the critics. COGconnected mentions minor commentary issues and a convoluted player management screen, but these drawbacks do not significantly impact the overall experience. Game Informer highlights occasional technical or logic hiccups that break immersion on a semi-regular basis. The Games Machine mentions that the offline modes ran smoothly on the PS5, but there were some issues with online fluidity. Hardcore Gamer praises the online component for its excellent experience with low latency but criticizes the game for being visually dated. These opinions suggest that while the PS5 version of the game has some technical hiccups, it still manages to provide an overall enjoyable experience. On the Xbox Series X, the technical performance of MLB The Show 23 seems to be more positive. Pure Xbox describes the game as running perfectly at 4K/60FPS on Series X. However, Shacknews mentions latency issues in online matches on the Xbox Series X. Despite this drawback, the overall sentiment from these critics suggests that the Xbox Series X version of the game delivers a smooth and visually impressive experience. The Nintendo Switch version of MLB The Show 23 received mixed reviews regarding its technical performance. Gaming Age mentions that the console's limitations are evident in the game, with players and stadiums looking iffy and the sounds of the game sounding less true-to-life. Nintendo Life points out that the frame rate on the Switch can be troublesome and feels sluggish compared to other platforms. However, NintendoWorldReport states that the game runs smoothly without much playable compromise on the Nintendo Switch. These differing opinions indicate that while the Switch version may have some technical limitations, it still manages to provide a playable experience without significant compromises. Overall, the critics' opinions on the technical performance of MLB The Show 23 across different gaming platforms are varied. The PS5 version has some minor issues but still delivers an enjoyable experience. The Xbox Series X version is praised for its smooth performance, although there are some latency issues in online matches. The Nintendo Switch version shows limitations in graphics and frame rate but still manages to provide a playable experience. Despite the mixed opinions, it is clear that the game's technical performance is generally satisfactory across all platforms, with each platform having its own strengths and weaknesses.

TL;DR

technical performance

MLB The Show 23's technical performance varies across platforms: PS5 has minor hiccups but offers an enjoyable experience, Xbox Series X runs smoothly with some latency issues, and Nintendo Switch shows limitations but remains playable. Each platform has strengths and weaknesses, providing a satisfactory gaming experience overall.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

55%

Mixed (50-79)

45%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions of the critics regarding the replay value of MLB The Show 23 are generally positive. Many critics highlight the various game modes and features that contribute to the game's replayability. Critics such as Attack of the Fanboy and CGMagazine mention the game modes and the ability to earn high-rated players early on, making it easy to come back and play regularly. COGconnected praises fan-favorite modes like Diamond Dynasty and Franchise, which offer an ever-evolving list of challenges and new features. Dexerto mentions the cycling out of cards in Diamond Dynasty to keep the experience fresh, while Digitally Downloaded acknowledges the presence of modes like Diamond Dynasty and Road to the Show, suggesting replayability. TheXboxHub also highlights the multiple game modes, including Road to the Show, Franchise mode, and Diamond Dynasty, as factors contributing to the game's replay value. However, there are some negative opinions regarding the replay value of MLB The Show 23. Hardcore Gamer mentions frustration with the Challenge Mode and the reset of previous Diamond Dynasty progression. The Loadout points out that the presence of microtransactions limits team changes, potentially affecting the longevity of the game. Pure Xbox states that while Diamond Dynasty mode is a total blast with generous rewards, Road to the Show and Franchise modes are in need of a revamp. Nintendo Life and NintendoWorldReport also express mixed opinions, with Nintendo Life stating that the new Storylines mode and Diamond Dynasty offer good replay value, but other modes feel flat and uninvolved. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that MLB The Show 23 offers significant replay value. The game is praised for its variety of game modes, including Diamond Dynasty, Road to the Show, Franchise, and Storylines, which provide different experiences and challenges. The ability to earn high-rated players, the ever-evolving challenges in fan-favorite modes, and the enjoyable gameplay are all mentioned as factors contributing to the game's replayability. While there are some criticisms regarding specific modes and features, the overall sentiment is positive, with critics such as PlayStation Universe stating that the game justifies its annual release with its rock-solid core gameplay and the addition of the new Storylines mode.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics generally praise MLB The Show 23 for its strong replay value, highlighting various game modes like Diamond Dynasty and Road to the Show. Positive aspects include the ability to earn high-rated players early on and a constant stream of challenges. However, some critics cite frustrations with modes like Challenge Mode and microtransactions impacting team changes. Overall, the game is commended for its diverse gameplay experiences, despite some areas needing improvement.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

84%

Mixed (50-79)

16%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

In analyzing the opinions of multiple reviewers regarding the overall verdict of MLB The Show 23, it is evident that the majority of critics had a positive view of the game. The first paragraph will focus on the positives highlighted by the reviewers. Critics such as COGconnected, GamingTrend, and New Game Network praised the game for its authentic representation of baseball and its improvements in gameplay and visual presentation. The addition of the Storylines mode, particularly the Negro Leagues storyline, was widely appreciated by critics like GamingBolt, New York Daily News, and Pure Xbox. The game's accessibility, enjoyable gameplay, and well-researched story elements were also commended by God is a Geek and TheXboxHub. Moving on to the negatives, the second paragraph will address the criticisms raised by some reviewers. Digitally Downloaded criticized MLB The Show 23 for its lack of significant improvements, especially in modes other than Diamond Dynasty, and considered it to be a cynical annual iteration. Hardcore Gamer mentioned the lack of visual updates and the requirement to pay for a dated-looking game as potential deterrents for new players. Additionally, Dexerto expressed disappointment with the Road to The Show mode, while Push Square and The Games Machine noted issues with gameplay and graphics. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus of the critics in the third paragraph leans towards a positive evaluation of MLB The Show 23. The game is widely regarded as one of the best baseball games in recent years, with many critics recommending it to both baseball fans and sports game enthusiasts. The addition of the Storylines mode, particularly the Negro Leagues storyline, was highlighted as a significant and refreshing addition to the franchise. The game's enjoyable gameplay, well-executed execution, and improvements in various aspects were praised by multiple reviewers, including Attack of the Fanboy, CGMagazine, and PlayStation Universe. The positive reception from fans, as mentioned by IGN Adria, further supports the overall positive sentiment towards MLB The Show 23. In conclusion, while there were some criticisms regarding MLB The Show 23, the majority of critics had a positive overall verdict for the game. The game's authentic representation of baseball, improvements in gameplay and visual presentation, and the addition of the Storylines mode were widely appreciated. While there were some concerns about lack of significant improvements, issues with certain game modes, and graphical limitations, these criticisms did not overshadow the positive aspects of the game. Overall, MLB The Show 23 was well-received by critics, making it a highly recommended choice for baseball fans and sports game enthusiasts.

TL;DR

Critics mostly praised MLB The Show 23 for its authentic baseball experience, improved gameplay, and Storylines mode, despite some criticisms about lack of major upgrades and specific game modes. Overall, the game is seen as one of the best baseball games recently, recommended for fans and sports game enthusiasts.

CRITIK

Reviews

65 reviews found

PlayStation Country

PlayStation 5

Apr 12, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer likes MLB The Show 23 a lot and sees themselves playing it for a long time.

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NintendoWorldReport

Nintendo Switch

Mar 28, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

An incredible baseball game with flexible gameplay and real-life players.

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But Why Tho?

Xbox Series X

Apr 14, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The overall verdict is positive, with the game being praised for revamping the formula and the importance of the Storylines: Negro Leagues mode.

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COGconnected

PlayStation 5

Apr 3, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

MLB The Show 23 is the best baseball simulation game on the market, providing an authentic representation of the sport. Despite minor issues, it is an excellent package.

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Comicbook.com

PlayStation 5

Apr 7, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

MLB The Show 23 is likely one of the strongest entries that we've received in quite some time.

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TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Apr 24, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

MLB The Show 23 is highly recommended for anyone interested in baseball, with its accessible gameplay, fantastic presentation, and the greatest baseball game of all time.

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IGN Adria

PlayStation 5

Apr 11, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review overall praises MLB The Show 23 as the best edition so far, with improvements in various aspects and positive reception from fans.

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Attack of the Fanboy

PlayStation 5

Mar 28, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review recommends MLB The Show 23 as a purchase, highlighting the new features and improvements while acknowledging its missing features and flaws.

Game Informer

PlayStation 5

Apr 12, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

MLB The Show 23 delivers one of the best baseball games in years.

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GamingTrend

PlayStation 5

Apr 7, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review overall recommends MLB The Show 23 for baseball fans, praising the gameplay upgrades, visual presentation, and the Negro Leagues storyline mode.

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