MVP Baseball 2004

"Who says “There’s no crying in baseball!”?"

Introduction –

MVP Baseball on PC has been around since 2003. Since then, it is one of the most popular baseball games since Triple Heat doesn't make any more games. In MVP Baseball 2004, you're looking at the cover of St. Louis Cardinals first basemen Albert Pujols and that glare in his eyes makes you think that this isn't just any other ordinary game. You first start off with the main menu from the exhibition, dynasty mode, home run showdown, pitcher showdown, manager mode, and scenario editor.

Gameplay –

If you're new to MVP Baseball 2004, start off in the Exhibition mode. It will give you a better sense on how to play the game rather than starting off in Dynasty mode where you may have problems to begin with.

Graphics/Sound –

When you're playing in just about any mode, you feel like you're right in the game. The stadiums are very much similar to today's complexes, the crowd is loud and when your team at home is struggling, they are struggling and boos are a factor if you're down by a lot of runs. If your team reaches the playoffs and your team advances, the players are very excited including the manager. When you hit a homerun, fireworks go off and music shines down on the stadium. You also hear fans chanting “Overrated!” if you're down by a lot and if you're a first place team in the standings and they also chant some players' names along the way. Can't always forget if you're the away team, fans will say to your players “You stink!”

Play Time/Replayability –

Typically, if you play a 9 inning game that's in All-Star level, it would take roughly 45 minutes to 1 hour. It all depends on how fast paced your game is and if you don't go into extra innings. Playing the dynasty mode could take several months to complete (again, depends on how many games you play a day) and once you play the Opening Day, you'd want to finish off the year and win the World Series.

Final Recommendation –

I'd recommend this game to those who like to play baseball computer games. We're almost to 2005 but that doesn't mean you shouldn't buy or rent MVP 2004. As a sports junkie, buy MVP 2004 before you buy 2005. That way, you'd get familiarize with the game and have a lot of expectations.

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 12/27/04