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MLB The Show 24

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of MLB The Show 24
Item: MLB The Show 24
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2024

GenresSimulation, Sports, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableMar 19, 2024

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

DeveloperSony Interactive Entertainment San Diego Studio

Overview

Swing for the fences, experience game-deciding moments, become a legend and live out your baseball dreams. Set out on the road to baseball greatness – whatever it is you want to achieve, MLB The Show 24 has got you covered. Earn your call up from the minors to the big leagues and prove you’ve got what it takes at the top. Learn about known and unsung legends of the sport and take inspiration from their heroics. Hold your nerve when it matters and earn the right to be called World Series champions. Chalk up the wins, pick yourself up after the losses. Whatever happens, know you left nothing in the dugout. Everyone has a moment to own. Everyone has a story to tell. Unlock your moment. Own The Show.

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Game analysis

Critik Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

88%

Mixed (50-79)

13%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praised the Story of MLB The Show 24 for its engaging and historically rich narrative elements. Atomix and CGMagazine highlighted the inclusion of new storylines such as the Negro Leagues and Derek Jeter, providing players with interesting narratives and historical context. Game Informer commended the well-crafted and engaging storylines, particularly noting the tribute to Derek Jeter and the narrative focusing on women in baseball. Worth Playing also appreciated the educational aspect of the game, delving into the history of baseball legends like Derek Jeter and players from the Negro Leagues. These positive aspects of the Story mode were seen as immersive and enriching by the critics. While the overall sentiment towards the Story of MLB The Show 24 was overwhelmingly positive, there were some potential areas for improvement noted by the critics. Multiplayer.it, for example, did not provide any specific negatives but could have potentially highlighted any shortcomings in the execution or depth of the historical elements. Additionally, while the inclusion of diverse storylines was generally well-received, there could have been room for further exploration or expansion on certain narratives to provide even more depth and emotional impact, as suggested by PlayStation Universe and Push Square. In conclusion, the Story of MLB The Show 24 was widely praised by critics for its engaging narrative experiences, historical context, and immersive storytelling. The introduction of new storylines such as the Negro Leagues and Derek Jeter's career highlights, alongside the tribute to baseball legends and the focus on female athletes, added depth and emotional impact to the game. The majority of critics found the storylines to be well-crafted, insightful, and potentially inspirational, making it a standout feature of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics was that the Story mode of MLB The Show 24 was very good, offering players a rich and rewarding storytelling experience within the world of baseball.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics lauded MLB The Show 24's Story mode for its engaging narratives, historical richness, and immersive storytelling. They praised the inclusion of new storylines like the Negro Leagues and Derek Jeter, as well as the focus on women in baseball. While some critics suggested areas for improvement in depth and exploration of certain narratives, the overall sentiment was overwhelmingly positive. The game's educational aspect and tribute to baseball legends were particularly highlighted as standout features, offering players a rewarding storytelling experience within the baseball world.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

94%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praised the gameplay of MLB The Show 24 for its comprehensive and refined mechanics, with many highlighting new features that enhanced the overall experience. Multiplayer.it appreciated the new Impact Plays and opponent AI improvements, while Atomix and Everyeye.it noted the accessibility of gameplay modes for both new and experienced players. God is a Geek commended the fluid and responsive gameplay, emphasizing the wealth of freedom and control players have over crucial moments, such as the Impact Plays that enhance the defensive side. Additionally, COGconnected highlighted the lifelike actions and immersive features like flipping the ball directly from the glove to a teammate, contributing to a brilliant simulation of actual baseball gameplay. On the flip side, some critics pointed out certain areas of improvement or aspects that fell short in MLB The Show 24's gameplay. VideoGamer mentioned issues with defense mechanics and hitting realism, indicating potential areas that could use further refinement. Push Square highlighted that while the gameplay remained largely familiar, some players might find defensive plays too reliant on Quick Time Events (QTEs), suggesting a need for more varied gameplay mechanics in certain areas. Game Informer also noted a lack of innovative changes to the hitting and pitching engine, which may have left some players expecting more significant updates in these core gameplay elements. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the gameplay of MLB The Show 24. The game was praised for its nuanced and well-balanced hitting and pitching mechanics, improved defensive animations, and various new features like Impact Plays and the ability to create female players in modes like Road to the Show. Critics appreciated the addictive and exciting challenges the game offers, with Digital Chumps highlighting the good rewards and addictive nature of the gameplay. While some minor issues were mentioned, such as the reliance on QTEs in defensive plays, the overall sentiment is that MLB The Show 24 delivers a very good gameplay experience that caters to both newcomers and seasoned players alike.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics overwhelmingly laud MLB The Show 24's gameplay for its refined mechanics, new features, and immersive simulation of baseball. Positive feedback includes praise for Impact Plays and opponent AI improvements, lifelike actions, and nuanced hitting and pitching mechanics. However, some critics note areas for improvement, such as defense mechanics and hitting realism. Despite minor issues like reliance on Quick Time Events, the game offers addictive challenges and caters to players of all levels.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

56%

Mixed (50-79)

44%

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 24 are quite varied. Many critics praised the game for its impressive graphics and attention to detail. Critics like But Why Tho?? and God is a Geek highlighted the realistic player animations and player likenesses, making the game feel more alive and authentic. Game Informer also commended the improved face and hair details, updated lighting systems, and sharper visuals that provide a detailed look at Major League Baseball diamonds. Additionally, Impulsegamer appreciated the lighting improvements and the implementation of women into the career mode, adding engaging elements to the visuals. On the other hand, some critics expressed concerns about the graphics not meeting modern standards. NintendoWorldReport and Push Square noted that the visuals on older consoles like the Nintendo Switch and some animation segments on the PS5 gave an Uncanny Valley feeling, with grass and dirt textures being criticized as ugly and dated. Worth Playing also mentioned bugs affecting gameplay, such as glitches impacting home runs and gendered pronouns, which detracted from the overall visual experience. MeuPlayStation found the lack of significant improvement from the previous installment slightly disappointing, indicating a need for more substantial graphical enhancements. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans towards positive feedback on the Graphics and Visual Design of MLB The Show 24. The game has been lauded for its realistic player animations, attention to detail in recreating historical moments and players, and immersive presentation of baseball gameplay. While there are some criticisms regarding graphical limitations on certain consoles, occasional odd-looking transitions, and minor details like hair and beard needing improvement, the majority of reviewers appreciate the strides made in enhancing the visuals of the game. With a mix of praise for its authenticity and immersive experience alongside constructive feedback for areas that could be refined, MLB The Show 24 seems to have successfully raised the bar for sports simulation games in terms of graphics and visual design.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics have mixed opinions on the Graphics and Visual Design of MLB The Show 24. Some praise its realistic player animations and attention to detail, while others feel it falls short of modern standards, particularly on older consoles. Despite some concerns about bugs and lack of significant improvement, most reviewers appreciate the game's immersive baseball gameplay experience. Overall, MLB The Show 24 sets a high standard for sports simulation games in terms of graphics and visual design.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

67%

Mixed (50-79)

33%

Negative (0-49)

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

The Sound Design and Music of MLB The Show 24 have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the critics. Atomix praised the game for its immersive sound design and diverse soundtrack, featuring various genres and artists. COGconnected highlighted the phenomenal sound design that authentically captures the auditory experience of a baseball game, including satisfying bat cracks, crowd reactions, and commentary by Jon Sciambi and Chris Singleton. Game Informer also commended the bold and soulful sound design, featuring scores by renowned artists like Stevie Wonder, Marlena Shaw, and A Tribe Called Quest, effectively complementing the gameplay experience. However, there were some criticisms regarding the Sound Design and Music of MLB The Show 24. GamersRD expressed disappointment in the soundtrack compared to previous years, despite acknowledging the realistic stadium sounds and fan chants that enhance immersion. MeuPlayStation pointed out the lack of localization in languages other than English, repetitive English commentary, and online mode connectivity issues, which detracted from the overall sound design experience for them. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that MLB The Show 24 excels in sound design, with realistic crowd sounds, engaging voice acting, and well-utilized DualSense controller features. Positive aspects such as the unique callouts for female players, authentic stadium ambiance, and diverse soundtrack were highlighted by Impulsegamer, Everyeye.it, and Push Square. While there were some criticisms regarding the soundtrack and localization issues, the majority of critics appreciated the immersive and authentic audio experience that enhanced the overall gameplay of MLB The Show 24.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics praise MLB The Show 24 for its immersive sound design, diverse soundtrack, and authentic baseball game experience with realistic crowd reactions and engaging commentary. Some criticism for the soundtrack and lack of localization, but overall, the majority agrees that the game excels in creating an immersive audio experience that complements gameplay.

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

83%

Negative (0-49)

17%

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

In terms of technical performance on the Xbox Series X, Multiplayer.it noted that MLB The Show 24 lacks significant technological advancements and falls short in innovation. However, no other critics provided feedback on this platform, making it difficult to draw a comprehensive analysis of the positives specific to Xbox Series X. Moving on to the Nintendo Switch, NintendoWorldReport highlighted several technical limitations of the game, including slow load times, server issues impacting gameplay, and frequent crashes. The menus were described as sluggish, and the overall experience was marred by these technical issues. This sentiment was echoed by Everyeye.it, who mentioned that the transition to multi-platform caused challenges for developers, but the game has managed to redeem itself. Despite some repetitive commentary, no major positives were highlighted for the Nintendo Switch version. On the PlayStation 5, several critics shared their experiences with MLB The Show 24. Game Informer praised the stable technical performance of the game, noting improvements such as 400 new animations, logic enhancements, and new base sizes. Worth Playing appreciated the addition of Custom Game Entry Conditions in Franchise mode, enhancing player control. However, VideoGamer pointed out various bugs present in the game, including issues with player ratings, gameplay glitches, and overpowered pitches like the knuckleball. These technical drawbacks detracted from the overall experience on the PS5 platform. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed reception towards the technical performance of MLB The Show 24 across different gaming platforms. While some praised specific enhancements and features, such as new animations and Custom Game Entry Conditions, others highlighted technical limitations, bugs, and issues affecting gameplay. It is evident that the game's transition to multi-platform has posed challenges for developers, leading to a varied experience for players. Moving forward, addressing technical issues and enhancing gameplay stability will be crucial for improving the overall reception of the game.

TL;DR

technical performance

Critics had mixed feelings about MLB The Show 24's technical performance on different platforms. Xbox Series X lacked innovation, Nintendo Switch had issues like slow load times and crashes, while the PlayStation 5 received praise for stability and new features. The game faced challenges with bugs and technical limitations across platforms, making gameplay experiences varied. Addressing these issues is key to improving the game's reception.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

76%

Mixed (50-79)

24%

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 24 overwhelmingly highlight the game's strengths in offering a plethora of engaging gameplay options and modes. Critics such as Atomix and But Why Tho?? commend the extensive customization options, engaging gameplay modes, and regular updates that contribute to a high replay value. Additionally, features like Diamond Dynasty, Franchise Mode, and Road to the Show are lauded for providing diverse experiences for players, as noted by NintendoWorldReport and Game Informer. The addition of new content updates throughout the year, as mentioned by CGMagazine, keeps the game fresh and engaging for long-term play. On the flip side, while the majority of critics praise the game's replay value, some reviewers express concerns about technical issues and potential repetitiveness. NintendoWorldReport points out that technical issues may hinder long-term enjoyment, particularly in relation to creating a female player in Road to the Show mode. VideoGamer also notes that challenges in Storylines mode may lead to repetitive gameplay experiences. These criticisms suggest that while the game offers a wealth of content and modes, there may be areas where improvements could enhance the overall replay value for players. Overall, the consensus among the critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the Replay Value of MLB The Show 24. The game's rich variety of modes, regular updates, engaging gameplay mechanics, and diverse experiences cater to a wide range of players, as highlighted by critics like God is a Geek and Push Square. The addition of new features, such as the inclusion of female athletes and historical storylines, further enhances the game's replayability. Despite minor technical issues and potential repetitiveness in certain modes, the majority of critics find that MLB The Show 24 offers a very good replay value, making it a solid choice for baseball fans seeking a rewarding and immersive gaming experience.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics praise MLB The Show 24 for its extensive gameplay options, customization, and updates, leading to high replay value. Features like Diamond Dynasty and Franchise Mode offer diverse experiences, though some reviewers note technical issues and repetitiveness. Overall, the game's rich content and engaging mechanics make it a solid choice for baseball fans looking for an immersive gaming experience.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

76%

Mixed (50-79)

24%

Negative (0-49)

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

In analyzing the opinions of the critics regarding the Overall Verdict of MLB The Show 24, it is evident that the game received high praise for various aspects. Critics such as But Why Tho?? and Game Informer highlighted the engaging gameplay, impressive visuals, and compelling storylines as major positives. The addition of female players, enhanced Road To The Show experience, and improved gameplay mechanics were also commended by reviewers like GamersRD and Everyeye.it. The inclusion of diverse modes, new stadiums, and animations, as mentioned by Impulsegamer, contributed to making MLB The Show 24 a top-notch baseball simulation experience. The majority of critics appreciated the comprehensive and immersive baseball gaming experience provided by the game, making it stand out as one of the best sports simulations of the year. On the flip side, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks of MLB The Show 24. NintendoWorldReport mentioned technical limitations and issues like compressed video and game/server crashes that detracted from the overall experience on the Nintendo Switch platform. GamersRD highlighted that while the game offered improvements, many changes could have been implemented in previous versions, and the lack of a Spanish commentator was a drawback. Worth Playing noted that while the game honored the game's history, it may not satisfy those seeking major innovations, indicating a potential lack of groundbreaking features for some players. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment among the critics leaned towards the positive aspects of MLB The Show 24, with the majority acknowledging its strengths and improvements over previous iterations. In conclusion, the consensus among the critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the Overall Verdict of MLB The Show 24. The game was praised for its comprehensive and deep gameplay experience, engaging storylines, improved gameplay mechanics, and diverse modes, making it a must-have for baseball fans and enthusiasts. While some critics pointed out minor issues such as technical limitations and a lack of major innovations, the general sentiment was that MLB The Show 24 excelled in providing an immersive and enjoyable baseball simulation experience. With a majority of critics considering it a very good addition to the series, the game stands out as a top contender in the sports simulation genre, appealing to both new and returning players alike.

TL;DR

MLB The Show 24 received high praise for its engaging gameplay, visuals, and storylines from critics, making it a top-notch baseball simulation experience. Positive aspects like female players, enhanced gameplay mechanics, and diverse modes were highlighted. Some critics noted drawbacks such as technical issues on the Nintendo Switch and a lack of major innovations. Overall, critics leaned towards the positive, praising the game for its deep gameplay and improvements over previous versions. Despite minor criticisms, MLB The Show 24 is considered a must-have for baseball fans, offering an immersive and enjoyable experience in the sports simulation genre.

CRITIK

Reviews

54 reviews found

God is a Geek

PlayStation 5

Mar 22, 2024

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

MLB The Show 24 is the best the series has been, offering a refined and bombastic experience. Perfect for both new and returning players with its diverse modes and improved gameplay mechanics.

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But Why Tho?

PlayStation 5

Mar 20, 2024

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

MLB The Show 24 is praised as another excellent update in one of the best sports game franchises, with the Storylines mode highlighting forgotten Negro League legends and the addition of female players enhancing the experience. The refreshed look contributes to making it the complete baseball package.

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COGconnected

PlayStation 5

Apr 5, 2024

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MLB The Show 24 continues the tradition of excellence in the franchise, with entertaining storylines, fantastic audio, and gameplay that shines as the finest sports simulation on the market.

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Digital Chumps

PlayStation 5

Mar 29, 2024

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MLB The Show 24 is spectacular this year, hitting more than it misses. It takes bold chances that pay off, setting an example of how to do a sports game well.

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PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

Mar 22, 2024

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

MLB The Show 24 hits a walk-off homerun for anyone even slightly a baseball fan, offering a great gaming experience with new modes, inclusive features, and engaging gameplay.

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Game Informer

PlayStation 5

Mar 27, 2024

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

MLB The Show 24 doesn't revolutionize the series but excels in providing an engaging experience for fans of baseball simulation games. With solid gameplay, impressive visuals, and compelling storylines, it offers a well-rounded package for players.

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Atomix

PlayStation 5

Mar 26, 2024

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MLB The Show 24 is a comprehensive and enjoyable gaming experience for baseball fans of all levels, a must-have for enthusiasts and a solid choice for newcomers.

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Impulsegamer

PlayStation 5

Mar 25, 2024

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

MLB The Show 24 is a top-notch baseball sim, offering improvements across the board and engaging gameplay features like new stadiums, animations, and storylines. It may not have fully transitioned to current-gen consoles, but it remains the best-looking baseball game available.

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Everyeye.it

PlayStation 5

Mar 26, 2024

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Comprehensive and immersive baseball gaming experience with improved gameplay mechanics, engaging modes, and notable technical progress. Stands out as one of the best sports simulations of the year.

CGMagazine

PlayStation 5

Mar 22, 2024

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

MLB The Show 24 is a fine addition to the series, offering enough new features to keep players interested, despite some menu interface shortcomings.

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