All-Star Baseball 2000

"A great baseball sim goes portable"

::Introduction::
The All Star Baseball series of games has always been top-notch as far as baseball goes. This GameBoy Color edition is no different. This is a rather simple, but well-done, baseball simulation. Now, on to the review...

::Gameplay::
The game can be fun for baseball fans and non-baseball fans alike. You can play a basic exhibition match, a home-run derby, or a standard season. Seasons can start from the playoffs, or you can play the whole 162 game season.

The game has two difficulty settings, Pro and All-Star. Either way, the computer AI can be very effective. The game forces you to get reasonably good, reasonably fast. The Pro difficulty offers a fair amount of challenge, while All-Star separates the men from the boys, so to speak.

The play control is similar to what you'd expect from the other versions, or at least close to it. Most of the primary functions during play are done using the B button, such as pitching, swinging, throwing, and base running. Secondary controls are primarily on the A button, like picking off runners, bunting, and retreating bases, while the start button is used for stealing. The control is simple and effective, and rarely poses problems.

::Graphics / Visuals::
The graphics in this game, although not the best, are well done. The field looks green, the stands are filled with fans, and you can easily differentiate between your team, and the opponents. Animations are fluid and it's easy to follow the ball and players during play. Though the graphics show up fine on a GameBoy Color, I have found problems while trying to play on the GameBoy Advance.

::Sound / Music::
The music exists almost entirely in the menus, and isn't very memorable, but helps pass the time. The in game music consists of the basic, generic baseball game tunes, during batting. Though only moderately amusing, the quality of the music, leaves something to be desired. After the ball is hit, you're down to sound effects. The sound effects are at best adequate. You have your basic bat-hitting-ball sound, the catching sound, and the crowd-cheering sound, along with a handful of others. Though sound left a fair amount to be desired, it isn't a major factor in a sports game.

::Playtime / Replayability::
For hardcore baseball fans looking for a game on the go, this is the one to pick, as you can spend a lot of time on season mode, or you can do a home-run derby with friends if you don't have the N64 version of this game already. This game, theoretically, has near-infinite replayability, though many people will grow tired with the gameplay. There really is no end to the game, so you will play until you get bored with it.

::Tallying of scores (out of 10)::
Gameplay- 8
Graphics/Visuals- 7
Sound Music- 4
Playtime/Replayability- 8
Overall- 7

::Final Recommendation::
If you want a slightly above-par baseball sim for the road, this game is for you. If you're not into baseball, or are looking for an exciting experience, you may want to pass this one over.

Reviewer's Score: 7/10, Originally Posted: 10/19/02, Updated 10/19/02