MLB 2K5 vs MVP 2005

[doubledown]

Well, since both games are supposed to be released this week, I was wondering what people are going to choose. Both are reasonably priced. I have MLB 2K5 on order, but I may want to try both. I'm one of the few that actually liked Sega's game last year.

So, any hands-on information would be GREAT! I'm mainly interested in a Career mode, ESPN was decent last year. Not sure how keen I am about playing A and AA and AAA ball.

[BARRICADE_28]

what i really care about is in-game gameplay (mostly better-pitcher interface etc.), since i'll play a lot online.

I don't know yet what i'll choose. I rented MVP last year and didn't like it. I'm so used to the kick-arse gameplay of High Heat. But i'll probably be renting both MVP and 2K this year and pick the one i prefer. It really depends on your tastes. Personally i hate cursor-based hitting because its completely unrealistic, but others like it.

[vanlandw]

if the sega offering comes out at 20 bucks that will be the one i get...if not i am prob not buying another sports game in about a decade

[smellhasreturned]

im gettin mlb 2k5 when does it come out anyway ?

[sighlintbob]

i will more than likely get both games, since they are reasonably priced. what can I say...I like baseball!

[chickenhawk]

I have last years MVP so I won't be getting any MLB game for a while. As long as I have some relatively updated version to play, I am happy. It just doesn't make sense to buy the new version every year IMHO.

[WAJedi]

Both of the games are showing as shipping within 24 hours, so I will be going to pick them up tomorrow. I have MLB ordered at EB with trade in credit and MVP at Gamestop using the any EA 2005 sports game thing. This makes me happy....I just set up my fantasy league yesterday, so I'm getting ready.

[tcrash247]

I'm leaning towards MVP, but I'll wait for some reviews. I'm definitely picking one up this weekend though.

[guyver2077]

mlb

[mtxbass1]

I'll probably buy both. $50.00 for two baseball games is fine with me.

[NateWhs152]

mvp 2005

[Pure Apathy]

I will be picking up MLB 2K5. MVP pissed me of last year with the lefty topspin glitch. I'm going to be a happy camper tomorrow afternoon when I pickup MLB 2K5.

[TheRock88]

I'm gonna pick up both tomorrow. Both games look really good this year and they're also $50 for both of them.

[ryanbph]

I dunno what I am going to get..gamerankings only has had 1 review for both, if I remeber correctly it was gamepro, 85 for both of them....I was very upset with mvp last year...to many times playing with my college buddy (yankee fan) a ball would get stuck in center field...and the lack of updates was piss poor

[regisphilbi0]

I'm picking up MLB 2k5. Why? Its $10 Cheaper.

[FriskyTanuki]

I'm picking up MVP tomorrow, it's the superior game that's getting shut down because of Take-Two. EA's been innovating in MVP with ESPN just lagging behind. Though, I've heard they may be working on a college baseball game instead for next year.

[WAJedi]

Though, I've heard they may be working on a college baseball game instead for next year.

If they seriously did this I would bust a nut. I am at every single Notre Dame Baseball game and have been dying for one for about the past 5 years. WHere did you hear this?

[Weedy649]

Well next year there will be no MVP right? So i just say screw all friggin sports games for not giving us a choice anymore

[repetske]

i will more than likely get both games, since they are reasonably priced. what can I say...I like baseball!

Right on brotha man. Two kick ass baseball games for dirt cheap. Woopah!

[Pure Apathy]

I dunno what I am going to get..gamerankings only has had 1 review for both, if I remeber correctly it was gamepro, 85 for both of them....I was very upset with mvp last year...to many times playing with my college buddy (yankee fan) a ball would get stuck in center field...and the lack of updates was piss poor

I heard these were the rankings from gamepro

MVP 2005 4.0
MLB 2006 4.0
Major League Baseball 2K5 4.5

[FriskyTanuki]

Though, I've heard they may be working on a college baseball game instead for next year.

If they seriously did this I would bust a nut. I am at every single Notre Dame Baseball game and have been dying for one for about the past 5 years. WHere did you hear this?

IGN's Mailbag (http://sports.ign.com/mail.html):

EA, MLB, NFL, ESPN, and more hot topics.
Sports leagues should not be able to sell exclusive licenses. My two favorite games are ESPN NFL 2K5 and MVP Baseball, now what the hell am I supposed to do? What do you think VC will do with their football series? Will EA make a baseball game next year without a license? Seems like a waste of two great engines.

Bruce

I agree, video games, like sports, is about competition, and to lose two of the AAA titles out of the category within a couple of months is both shocking and disturbing. What might happen, though, is creativity winning out over licenses. I think VC can make an awesome high school football game. Build your own school, your stadium, and let things play out under the Friday night lights. I've outlined other options in past columns, from the return of a Cyberball-type game, to getting the Hall of Fame or NCAA license. One thing's for sure, VC is far from finished creating football games. I think the same is true with EA and baseball. I know some developers in EA Canada who were interested in creating a College World Series game before this even happened, so I wouldn't be surprised if EA went the college route with their baseball engine, and I think it could be a lot of fun.

[yops2k]

Tomorrow, I'll be picking up Street Fighter Anniversary Collection and MVP 2005. I liked MVP last year, despite the annoying lefty glitch. By the way, 1up has a feature where they compare MLB 2k5, MVP 2005, and MLB 2006 (PS2).

Playing Hardball in 2005 (http://www.1up.com/do/feature?cId=3133925)

[WAJedi]

I know some developers in EA Canada who were interested in creating a College World Series game before this even happened, so I wouldn't be surprised if EA went the college route with their baseball engine, and I think it could be a lot of fun.

You have made my week. College Baseball > MLB. As a matter of fact, college sports are almost always better than their professional counterparts.

[ElwoodCuse]

MVP fixed the lefty glitch, and just looks to be all-around better. It's the only EA game I like better than its rivals.

[doubledown]

I may spring for both now that I think about it. I have a $15 EA code...so it would only be $20 or so

[vrs1650]

I think MVP is what I will be getting today. I was a fan of last years, the lefty glitch sucked, but overall the game just felt better to me. Plus I was a big fan of the AAA and AA leagues. Liked promoting and demoting players.

[greendj27]

I think MVP is what I will be getting today. I was a fan of last years, the lefty glitch sucked, but overall the game just felt better to me. Plus I was a big fan of the AAA and AA leagues. Liked promoting and demoting players.

Thats my basic feeling too. I like having control over the whole organization and trading for a top propsect and developing him. The lefty glitch was annoying last year, but that's been fixed. I also like the build a stadium option. Plus I got MVP for $25 shipped so prices are about equal.

[doubledown]

ESPN had a minor-league system last year. You could not play with them and they had no stats, but they allowed you to promote and demote players.

I'll give each game a fair shake this year I suppose.

[greendj27]

ESPN had a minor-league system last year. You could not play with them and they had no stats, but they allowed you to promote and demote players.

I'll give each game a fair shake this year I suppose.

From what I have read about all three games, it sounds like you really won't go wrong with any of them. It just comes dow to personal preferences in a few areas, but they all sound like they were done very well.

[Birbo]

Sega's had me since WSB '98 on the Saturn, so I'm going with 2K5.

[maccabee72]

I'll be picking up MVP this afternoon. I played Espn Baseball and MVP last year, and even with it's flaws, I still enjoyed MVP much better. I'd buy both this year, but I sold my xbox, and ESPN isn't on the cube.

I was also think about using my $15 EA code, so it would be $20.94 shipped, but I want it TODAY!

[doubledown]

I'll be picking up MVP this afternoon. I played Espn Baseball and MVP last year, and even with it's flaws, I still enjoyed MVP much better. I'd buy both this year, but I sold my xbox, and ESPN isn't on the cube.

I was also think about using my $15 EA code, so it would be $20.94 shipped, but I want it TODAY!

Post your review today if you get it....I was just going to order both, but I may just rent MVP since I'm still waiting for 2K5 to ship. (hopefully Blockbuster gets it in soon)

[maccabee72]

I'll be picking up MVP this afternoon. I played Espn Baseball and MVP last year, and even with it's flaws, I still enjoyed MVP much better. I'd buy both this year, but I sold my xbox, and ESPN isn't on the cube.

I was also think about using my $15 EA code, so it would be $20.94 shipped, but I want it TODAY!

Post your review today if you get it....I was just going to order both, but I may just rent MVP since I'm still waiting for 2K5 to ship. (hopefully Blockbuster gets it in soon)

Will do! I get off work in a couple of hours and I'll pick it up after that. Hopefully, I'll get enough playing time in to give some kind of review.

[Maynard]

MLB is pretty awesome so far, so good that i haven't even touched MVP yet i'm about to pop it in. I would have to say as far as fun goes right now i'm having a BLAST with MLB and i HATED last years. I'm usually a DIE HARD MVP guy, but like i said now MLB is pretty damn good!

[Matt Young]

I just got home with MVP Baseball. I'll post thought after a couple games.

[Pure Apathy]

I played a few games of MLB today, the game feels ok. I kinda like last years MVP better.

[ayolykewhoa]

MVP was my game last year. I really like the pitching and I felt it was more entertaining than the hitting. I'll rent MLB for now.

[Rich]

I'm having some epic games in MVP.

Played 2 yanks-sox games.

Took a perfect game into the 7th with a 1-0 lead and gave up 2 runs in the 7th. Got perfected until the last inning when I hit a double and then a 2 strike 2 out walkoff to win 3-2.

The other game had both Johnson and Schilling take shutouts to the 9th. Johnson went 9 straight, Schilling was relieved in the 9th, then I hit another walkoff to win 1-0.

Hitting in 2K5 is damned hard though. I always wiff. :(

[Monsta Mack]

I got MVP, outside of the coach arguing, nice fool tip animations, lefty fix, some player model improvements, A teams, hitters eye, theres not too many new improvements, but theres enough to justify a $30 purchase. If MVP was $50 this year I would give it a thumbs down, but for $30 I think It's enough to warrant a purchase if you never played MVP or enjoyed last years enough (as in you put in over 60+ hours into it).

I haven't tried MLB yet, Mafia says the presentation is top notch but the gameplay was just "ok", and not as good as MVP.

I don't care for EA but they got my money. Thankfully only $30 and not $50.

[doubledown]

Well, my MLB 2K5 shipped yesterday/this morning (not sure when)

I'm hoping to get it by the weekend, but I doubt it.

I'll rent MVP today if my Blockbuster has it. It seems like a lot of people like MLB 2K5 this year.

[maccabee72]

I picked up MVP last night. I was able to get in one game. An epic Yanks-Sox game that was 4-4 going into the bottom of the ninth and ended with me hitting a 2-run homerun with Jorge Posada from the left side (a good sign if you played last year's game).

With the little time I spent with the game, I can agree with the above posters that not too much has changed. The graphics are very similar, but the face models look great this year....you can really tell who every player is just by looking at their faces.

Also, the fielding is much more fluid and true to the real game. I didn't see one circus catch from the defense, during my game last night, and I would usually see up to 7 a game last year. The double plays and everything else also appeared to be easier and much more fluid.The replays are improved and have a new look with a new graphic of your team displayed before each, and then with the option of arguing the call.

Hitting is very similar, but You can also move around in the batter's box this year. I definitely couldn't stand not being able to move my batter around last year.The new pitching gimmick with the flash ball didn't help me one bit, but I'm color blind and that could be the reason. The pitcher appears closer this year, but it doesn't make it any harder to to hit. There is also a pretty cool new pitch analysis you can use after each pitch.

Pitching has three zones on the return meter this year (early, late, and perfect), and you seem to really be rewarded when you make a perfect pitch in the middle of the zone, and you really pay when you make a bad pitch. My first pitch of the game went for a homerun because it was so off.

I played all the mini games and they are a nice addition. They have a a hitting mini game where you have to hit into certain zones or hit certain objects to rack up points. They also have a really fun pitching mini game that is similar to a puzzle game where you have to hit specific pitch coded zones to connect colors and maximize your points. They have the same old Homerun showdown which I really hate, and I wish they would give the option for a traditional homerun contest.

All-in-all, I think I am going to spend numerous hours playing this game this season. If you liked last year's game, you are going to love this year's, because they fixed most or all of the problems that people were complaining about. This game was well worth the $29.99 price tag, and I have yet to get into the owner's mode and other options. I only have a cube this year, so this game is my only baseball option, but it's definitely one I can live with.

I'll post more when I get into more of the modes and get some more playing time in.

[FrankySox]

Thanks for the impressions, and I think you just sealed the deal on me buying MVP, played it last year and loved it but hated that I couldn't hit home runs with Bonds or Delgado, and if I did that they only went so far. The ptiching was great, and the more I type the more excited I'm getting about picking this up after work!

[Rich]

The more I play ESPN, the more I <3 it. It's really a great game.

I just pooned the Sox 10-1 with 7 HRs.

[greendj27]

The mini-games in MVP are a lot of fun. I have only managed to play two games because the min-games are so damn fun.

[doubledown]

Well, I rented MVP yesterday. Overall, I thought it was a pretty decent game. The gameplay seemed ok overall....graphics were ok, nothing great (I've read some reviews that said they took a step backwars, although I don't remember last year)

A few things annoyed me. Outfielders seem to go TOO slow going after flyballs. No turbo button or any kind of run your ass off button.
Base hits seemed a bit hard to come by, but I guess that is normal. I'd rather have a low scoring game than a HR fest.

The rosters were outdated. Magglio and Delgado were still free agents. Then, I went on LIVE and it said they had rosters to update...downloaded, nothing changed (I think Schilling was a free agent now?!?! Did I miss something?).....what is with that?????? Why have DL rosters w/o the current player placement....unless I missed something.

Owner mode just seems goofy. I guess if you are a fan of the sims, it would work.


I'm not passing full judgement yet until I get my 2K5 game in the mail. I'll make a decision which one I want after that. I'm really interested in Dynasty/Franchise modes the most.....so, I'll go from there on that. Gameplay is always the most important. I hope 2K5 passes MVP in this aspect.

[maccabee72]

Yeah, after playing a few more games I do have a few complaints. First, the fielding isn't as automatic as it was last year. There were a few times that the ball just rolled right past my guy in the circle, but after making some adjustments I haven't had that happen too much, but the fielders are pretty slow as you said DD,and I actually had Johny Damon hit an Inside the park HR off me on a ball that just happened to roll past me.

The graphics are pretty much the same as last year, except the faces seem a lot better. I had this game on xbox last year, so everything was just a bit sharper, but not enough to complain about. The crowd still looks like cardboard cut out though.

My biggest complaint so far is the time it takes to save on dynasty. I guess I was just spoiled by my xbox's hard drive, but last night I saved my game, I walked across my house into the kitchen, refilled my drink, walked back across my house and into my bedroom, and it was still saving. Like I said, I'm probably just spoiled by my xbox, but that just seemed like a ridiculous amount of time to save.

I dabbled with the owners mode last night, and it seems like it's going to be a fun addition to get into, but I probably won't get more into it until I'm finished with Resident Evil 4 (On chapter 5-3...so I'm just about there)

Last year, I had MVP, ASB, and ESPN, and I ended up getting rid of the latter two because I was too hooked on MVP's gameplay. Even with the quirks on the gamecube, I still love this years gameplay and the accuracy of my hit run totals at the end of the game which are highly improved over last year. I won't have the opportunity to try the other two games this year, but I can say overall I am quite satisfied with MVP. I think if you really liked ESPN last year, you'll probably like it this year, because I hear it's really improved. Either way, I'd suggest everyone,who has the opportunity, to
try both before making a judgement. In either case, I think you can't go wrong as it seems both companies put out a quality product this year.

[doubledown]

Yeahm the fielding in MVP was a little off. I think Ken Harvey hit an Inside-Park-HR on me on a ball that rolled past my fielder.....

[flybrione]

That is the main reason I do not like MVP the feilding is not that tight.
I picked up MLB and Street Fighter AC today.

We need to start an MLB League with a small goup of people. Maybe a 32 game season.

[sblymnlcrymnl]

I'll get 2K5 when I get some extra money, which will probably be after spring break. I haven't played a baseball game since Hardball 3. :oops:

[maccabee72]

Yeah, it's all just a matter of preference. I just wish I had a system other than the cube this year, so could give MLB a try as I'm hearing more and more that they did a really nice job this year with it. Some of the message boards have some of the most ridiculous arguments back and forth about which game is better. It's just a shame that this is going to be the last year to even have this argument on some systems.

One other cool feature I noticed today on MVP, and I don't think they had it last year, was that when you play in a classic stadium like the Polo Grounds, the presentation is in the old style gritty, grey, and brownish look of an old time game. It's pretty cool. It definitely gives you the feel of a classic game. I also hear the Mick is one of the unlockables this year, so I'm also looking forward to that.

[jshorr]

Just to weigh in here a little.....I was an MVP fan in 2003 and 2004 and didn't care for ESPN's game last year. But this year, I think MLB 2K5 is my game. MVP is good, don't get me wrong....but basically what I did was play a full game of each, on easiest setting, without reading the manuals much....I could be overlooking some problems in one game versus the other....but I found that the graphics and presentation were more realistic in MLB, the hitting physics better, the fielding smoother and overall the game was just more fun. I'm not claiming to be a great videogame baseball player...in MVP in the game I played pretty much every time I hit the ball it was an easy fly or a grounder to first base....the MLB game seemed easier and more fun to hit and field and the ESPN stuff looks really nice. It's a shame that with all the new deals that next year MLB won't have ESPN. But back to what I was saying, MLB is my game at least until I try the nintendo 1st party game.

[thehuskerfan]

In my opinion, MLB 2k5 is strides ahead of MVP in realism and commentary. It actually feels like you're watching a real game! Although, MVP has a deeper franchise mode (like all other EA sports titles). Its mostly a toss-up for me, but I'm sticking with MLB 2k5.

[lordwow]

I picked up MVP Baseball at Best Buy with a coupon and a gift card for $19, so I really can't complain. I've been a huge fan of MVP since 2003 (the first one), and I must say, this year's MVP really fixed MOST of those annoying problems. Namely:
- The ridiculous catches the comp would make
- Making the games MUCH closer
- Adding a better batting system (Hitter's Eye)
- With that, making the tough windups actually more difficult to read what pitch is coming.
- The owner mode is great, and is starting to get on par with the other EA Games.
- and of course, Lefties can homer.

But, there are still a few problems. The PC Version is still choppy as hell (this is something everyone is complaining about, not just me, it needs to be patched.) And Fielding is still odd. If you miss a ball in the OF, your OFer is still much slower than the computer controlled ones, and generally results in at least a triple, which is a killer in a close game.

All and all I'm still backing MVP, but I'll be hoping over to MLB next year... when I have no choice.

[Scorch]

I was at GameCrazy last night.. played MVP.. noticed that nothing really looked improve, got bored after five or so minutes..

Played ESPN, and WOW. The graphics are insane, and they made everything fun, even the pitching. The realism and commentary are out of this world. Not to mention that you can use custom soundtracks (Why is EA so anti-custom soundtrack support?) for when you knock those grand slams outta the park. The manager at GC saw me playing, so he grabbed the second controller, and we sat and played almost a full game.. played until around 10, when they had to close up.. we had it tied, 11-11. I must pick up ESPN ASAP. I'm going to make it play the Final Fantasy victory theme when I hit a home run!

[jshorr]

I picked up MVP Baseball at Best Buy with a coupon and a gift card for $19, so I really can't complain. I've been a huge fan of MVP since 2003 (the first one), and I must say, this year's MVP really fixed MOST of those annoying problems. Namely:
- The ridiculous catches the comp would make
- Making the games MUCH closer
- Adding a better batting system (Hitter's Eye)
- With that, making the tough windups actually more difficult to read what pitch is coming.
- The owner mode is great, and is starting to get on par with the other EA Games.
- and of course, Lefties can homer.

But, there are still a few problems. The PC Version is still choppy as hell (this is something everyone is complaining about, not just me, it needs to be patched.) And Fielding is still odd. If you miss a ball in the OF, your OFer is still much slower than the computer controlled ones, and generally results in at least a triple, which is a killer in a close game.

All and all I'm still backing MVP, but I'll be hoping over to MLB next year... when I have no choice.

Just wondering if you've tried MLB 2K5 yet.......if you are a PC only gamer I don't think they make it for PC...wondering if they will for next year.

[SteveMcQ]

I have MVP on order and it should be coming in the next few days.

MLB owners...from the time you've had with it, does it at all seem rushed? Like ESPN NBA missing the post-game coverage? Any sort of loose ends that seemed to have been left out trying to get the game out sooner? Looking to pick this up when Meijer has another BOGO 1/2 off sale.

[lordwow]

Just wondering if you've tried MLB 2K5 yet.......if you are a PC only gamer I don't think they make it for PC...wondering if they will for next year.

No, I haven't, as I said, I picked up MVP for PC myself, and my friend picked it up for XBox, so I've seen/played both MVP versions. I haven't yet played 2K5, and I believe you're correct that it's not for PC. But I don't know anyone that has MLB yet, but I'll look at it if I get the chance.

[H-Town Info]

if anyone has mlb 2k5, do u guys have any batting tips for me? i'm playing on the pro level right now and i cant score 3 runs with above avg offense.

[smellhasreturned]

i just got it and boy do i suck :(. I havent gotten a new baseball game since triple play 2001

[scargums]

is anyone here considering pennant chase? more than likely not because it will come out too late, like later in march (sweet move nintendo), but next season it should be a major player with MVP out of the picture and pennant chase likely being released alongside its rivals isntead of much later. anyone have any idea whether or not it will be as good as the competition?

[jshorr]

is anyone here considering pennant chase? more than likely not because it will come out too late, like later in march (sweet move nintendo), but next season it should be a major player with MVP out of the picture and pennant chase likely being released alongside its rivals isntead of much later. anyone have any idea whether or not it will be as good as the competition?

I am very interested in it, but this far to my knowledge there is next to no info on it, no screenshots, etc. So it's hard to really consider it. I think it's being made by the team that made WSB 03 which was supposed to be pretty good.

[Matt Young]

I just finished the 7th game of my MVP Owner's Mode franchise with the White Sox (although it's game #20-something overall, the others being exhibition). I had my first ever blowout, crushing the Indians in the first game of a 3 game set at Jacobs Field, 15-1. I only allowed one hit, a homer to .100-hitting Aaron Boone of all people, with Freddy Garcia.

My best player, Paul Konerko, went 0-for-5, but everyone else picked up the slack. Juan Uribe hit his 2nd and 3rd homers of the season, and Willie Harris and previously sub-.100 hitting Joe Crede (who went 3 for 5 and raised his average 100 points) even knocked out a 3 run shot. Frank Thomas hit a double off the top of the wall.

So now I'm 5-2 and in still tied for first place in the AL Central. Every game has been very close except for the last one:

1. Beat Cleveland 3-1
2. Beat Cleveland 3-2
3. Lost to Cleveland 3-0
4. Beat Minnesota 2-1
5, Beat Minnesota 3-2
6. Lost to Minnesota 3-1

Overall, I love this game very much. I still want to get ESPN soon, though. I was skeptical after last year's horrible entry into the series, but I've heard good things. I guess I'll have to wait on either Tiger Woods or Street Fighter Anniversary collection since both are $30 and I can't get both along with ESPN MLB.

[Sofa King Cheap]

We need some kind of standard shorthand so as not to confuse MLB 2006 and MLB 2K5. Maybe:

MLB for MLB 2006
2K5 or 2K for MLB 2K5

Can't wait to get my hands on the Create-a-Stadium feature in MVP when the game is delivered to me today..

It seems Nintendo Pennant Chase Baseball will also have some kind of stadium editor:

http://www.gamespot.com/gamecube/sports/nintendopennantchasebaseball/preview_6119248.html

Nintendo Pennant Chase Baseball Impressions

Details on the game are still somewhat scarce, but Nintendo has released some of the first screenshots of its upcoming Major League Baseball-licensed sports game, Nintendo Pennant Chase Baseball. The game is currently in development at Exile Interactive and is scheduled to be released in April.

The game looks like it's coming along well from a graphical standpoint. The player models in the screenshots that Nintendo has released look fairly realistic and smooth. The screenshots also seem to reveal a few of the game's modes. Home field evolution appears to be a section of the game that will let you beef up your stadium as time goes on, adding things like pressboxes, scoreboards, and concession stands. The game will have a franchise mode, and a rookie of the year feature, which appears to be where you'll earn and assign points to players in categories like contact, power, speed, and various fielding abilities.

Interestingly enough, Pennant Chase Baseball will also contain a tournament mode that appears to allow multiple GameCubes to get in on the action. Does this mean the game will support more than four players at a time via some sort of LAN support? We'll have to wait for Nintendo to let loose with some more new information before we know for sure. Until then, check out some new, exclusive screenshots of Nintendo Pennant Chase Baseball. We'll have more info as it becomes available.

By Jeff Gerstmann, GameSpot POSTED: 02/25/05 04:32 PM

[Matt Young]

Don't expect much from MVP's ballpark editor. You're only allowed to choose from a handful of options. It's very shallow.

[maccabee72]

Don't expect much from MVP's ballpark editor. You're only allowed to choose from a handful of options. It's very shallow.

Yeah, it seems very shallow in the beginning, but I think you unlock a lot more options as you make money, which I can't seem to do, as I'm already down $4,000,000.

I pitched a perfect game with Kyle Lohse in Owner's mode the other day, and it didn't have any impact on attendance or sales and I'm also undefeated through about six games. Oh well, hopefully I'll start making money soon.

The more I play MVP the more I'm loving it, but I have noticed another little quirk on the gamecube. Once you lead off a few extra taps on the C-stick, and the pitcher tries to pick you off at first, and then the first baseman throws back to the pitcher, it seems the computer won't let you lead off again after the throwback. Anyone else have this problem?

Another thing that pissed me off in my dynasty mode last night was that I hit an in-the-park homerun with Tony Womack in Fenway. It was an off throw back into the infield after Womack had already passed third base, but they gave Damon an error and they didn't give womack credit for a hit, even though it should have atleast been a triple. Not a big deal, just a little frustrating when it seems so much harder to hit a triple this year.

The only other thing that I wish they would have fixed from last year is adding sortable team stats. I know they have team stats in the standings, but sortable team stats would help me adjust my sliders a little more easily.

Other than these little annoyances, I am really loving everything else. I wish I could get MLB 2K5 on the cube, so I could compare the two, but overall I'm really happy with MVP. On another note, I have Mickey Mantle unlocked. He is just awesome in this game. Nothing like playing with the Mick!

[doubledown]

I noticed in MVP that if you get an error....like a single turned into a double....they give you just an error, no hit at all. So, yes....this happens.

Hopefully 2K5 will show up today, so I can compare the two and decide what to keep. MVP is darn good though, no real complaints.

[greendj27]

Don't expect much from MVP's ballpark editor. You're only allowed to choose from a handful of options. It's very shallow.

Yeah, it seems very shallow in the beginning, but I think you unlock a lot more options as you make money, which I can't seem to do, as I'm already down $4,000,000.

I pitched a perfect game with Kyle Lohse in Owner's mode the other day, and it didn't have any impact on attendance or sales and I'm also undefeated through about six games. Oh well, hopefully I'll start making money soon.

The more I play MVP the more I'm loving it, but I have noticed another little quirk on the gamecube. Once you lead off a few extra taps on the C-stick, and the pitcher tries to pick you off at first, and then the first baseman throws back to the pitcher, it seems the computer won't let you lead off again after the throwback. Anyone else have this problem?

Another thing that pissed me off in my dynasty mode last night was that I hit an in-the-park homerun with Tony Womack in Fenway. It was an off throw back into the infield after Womack had already passed third base, but they gave Damon an error and they didn't give womack credit for a hit, even though it should have atleast been a triple. Not a big deal, just a little frustrating when it seems so much harder to hit a triple this year.

The only other thing that I wish they would have fixed from last year is adding sortable team stats. I know they have team stats in the standings, but sortable team stats would help me adjust my sliders a little more easily.

Other than these little annoyances, I am really loving everything else. I wish I could get MLB 2K5 on the cube, so I could compare the two, but overall I'm really happy with MVP. On another note, I have Mickey Mantle unlocked. He is just awesome in this game. Nothing like playing with the Mick!

As for making money, you need to raise prices on the high impact games and lower prices on the low impact games also. Winning helps increase the impact of games, so if you have a poor team it better be a cheap one. I started with the Brewers, so I started by trading some of the overpaid underperforming guys like Jenkins. My team did pretty well. I simmed the season a game at a time and ended up making about $5 million to purchase more upgrades. There are quite a few upgrades you can purchase once you get going.

Also, as for the lead off problem, I thought the same thing, but then I realized that the runner simply takes the same lead you had him set to before the pickoff attempt. Try decreasing his lead and you will see what I mean. Once I figured that out, i liked that it was set up that way. By the way, Rickie Weeks is awesome, and I had a shortstop in the minors who was better than JJ Hardy and had 90 speed as a 22 year old. :D

[maccabee72]

As for making money, you need to raise prices on the high impact games and lower prices on the low impact games also. Winning helps increase the impact of games, so if you have a poor team it better be a cheap one. I started with the Brewers, so I started by trading some of the overpaid underperforming guys like Jenkins. My team did pretty well. I simmed the season a game at a time and ended up making about $5 million to purchase more upgrades. There are quite a few upgrades you can purchase once you get going.

Also, as for the lead off problem, I thought the same thing, but then I realized that the runner simply takes the same lead you had him set to before the pickoff attempt. Try decreasing his lead and you will see what I mean. Once I figured that out, i liked that it was set up that way. By the way, Rickie Weeks is awesome, and I had a shortstop in the minors who was better than JJ Hardy and had 90 speed as a 22 year old. :D

Hey, thanks for the help. I tried the higher pricing with my first series. I'm using Houston and was playing St.Louis, and for some reason that series only had a 3/10 impact even though they are rivals. I did the fantasy draft and I now realize that's probably what is hurting me with the salaries of Randy Johnson, Carlos Delgado, Sammy Sosa, Chipper Jones, Billy Wagner, Etc. I guess I need to try and get rid of some of those higher priced players. Should I also charge higher prices on concessions and souveniors in the higher impact games?

I'll have try the lead-off thing when I get home. If that's the case, it definitely turns a perceived flaw into a great feature. Thanks again!

[greendj27]

As for making money, you need to raise prices on the high impact games and lower prices on the low impact games also. Winning helps increase the impact of games, so if you have a poor team it better be a cheap one. I started with the Brewers, so I started by trading some of the overpaid underperforming guys like Jenkins. My team did pretty well. I simmed the season a game at a time and ended up making about $5 million to purchase more upgrades. There are quite a few upgrades you can purchase once you get going.

Also, as for the lead off problem, I thought the same thing, but then I realized that the runner simply takes the same lead you had him set to before the pickoff attempt. Try decreasing his lead and you will see what I mean. Once I figured that out, i liked that it was set up that way. By the way, Rickie Weeks is awesome, and I had a shortstop in the minors who was better than JJ Hardy and had 90 speed as a 22 year old. :D

Hey, thanks for the help. I tried the higher pricing with my first series. I'm using Houston and was playing St.Louis, and for some reason that series only had a 3/10 impact even though they are rivals. I did the fantasy draft and I now realize that's probably what is hurting me with the salaries of Randy Johnson, Carlos Delgado, Sammy Sosa, Chipper Jones, Billy Wagner, Etc. I guess I need to try and get rid of some of those higher priced players. Should I also charge higher prices on concessions and souveniors in the higher impact games?

I'll have try the lead-off thing when I get home. If that's the case, it definitely turns a perceived flaw into a great feature. Thanks again!

I think you can charge more, but I'm having a tougher time figuring out the concessions. As for the impact rating, it seems like all the early season games have a lower impact, but I noticed that ealry in the season, the Cubs came to Milwaukee (5 impact) and even though the impact wasn't really that high i was able to jack up prices and make a lot of money of them. Thanks Cubs fans. I guess this game i like real life in some ways! :)

[JebusMcLucifer]

I was gonna just get MVP this year, but I could'nt wait for outpost.com to ship it. So, I went and got 2K5, and so far it has surpassed all of my expectations. If anyone wants to play on live my GT is JebusMcLucifer.

[Pure Apathy]

MLB 2K5 is a great game. So far I've played about 7 games.

[SteveMcQ]

For those that ordered MVP through EA: when does this game ship out? It's been stuck on "pre-order" on my order status. Did you get a confirmation email that it shipped or did it just show up? All I got was an email that it was a preorder when I had ordered it after release. Odd.

[outlawz42]

Ugh...mvp is killing me...im the mets and so far im 0-2 vs the reds in owner mode..lot of weird outfield mistakes..of course the computer is a gold glover..getting better with the homers...hitting is hard im on pro mode...but oh well hopefully it wont turn me off like last year..

[Monsta Mack]

I think both games are pretty good, but MVP edges out ESPN in both pitching and hitting, which are the two important factors for me.

Also what annoys me, if anyone else knows a fix, rumble is FIXED for online play for 2k5.

ESPN kills MVP in presentation and overall "broad cast" feeling, but everything else is either edged by MVP or a close call. I think 2k5 has done a VERY good job to catch up to MVP, and I'll probably fork over my cash next year for 2k5, but if I had a choice I would stay with the devil (EA) and support MVP.

[doubledown]

Sounds like Gameplay is going to MVP, while sound/presentation goes to 2K5

2K5 has a few bugs....
MVP has a bug where if you get a single, and there is a throwing error in the outfield, it only gives you an error....not a hit + error. Not a big deal, but it happens.

Looks like I may be trading my copy of 2K5 in....if it does not exceed MVP (still have a week left on the rental)

[maccabee72]

I am loving the gameplay on MVP 2005. Everything just seems so tight. I had a little trouble in the very beginning because the players don't automatically go into the circle like they did last year. Once, I got used to that though, I haven't had any problems.

I'm 7-1 in my dynasty mode with the yanks and 1-1 in owner's mode with a fantasy drafted Astros(both on All-star). I restarted my Owners mode and drafted all the best low price players. I have a great low priced lineup and actually seem to be making some money now.

One of my low priced players is Mark Teixeira. Anybody notice how big his head is in this game? It's looks like a watermelon between his shoulders. He kind of looks like th guy from the movie "Mask". I can't help but laugh every time he comes up to bat!

[Sofa King Cheap]

For those that ordered MVP through EA: when does this game ship out? It's been stuck on "pre-order" on my order status. Did you get a confirmation email that it shipped or did it just show up? All I got was an email that it was a preorder when I had ordered it after release. Odd.

Ordered Wednesday...shipped Thursday...arrived Monday.

It usually ships next business day after you order from them. So, if you ordered Friday, it should have shipped Monday.

[TheRock88]

Got both games and I'm enjoying MLB 2K5 a lot more then MVP. Ever since I got it, havent touched MVP since. Presentation is amazing, feels like you're watching a real game. Only thing I dont like about it is the many bugs in the game (lineup glitch, too many wild pitches, etc.).

[SteveMcQ]

For those that ordered MVP through EA: when does this game ship out? It's been stuck on "pre-order" on my order status. Did you get a confirmation email that it shipped or did it just show up? All I got was an email that it was a preorder when I had ordered it after release. Odd.

Ordered Wednesday...shipped Thursday...arrived Monday.

It usually ships next business day after you order from them. So, if you ordered Friday, it should have shipped Monday.

Yeah, I just checked their order status page and it's still listed as a pre-order. And the only email I've gotten from them was one stating it was a pre-order. Damn, I want my game already!

[doubledown]

Got both games and I'm enjoying MLB 2K5 a lot more then MVP. Ever since I got it, havent touched MVP since. Presentation is amazing, feels like you're watching a real game. Only thing I dont like about it is the many bugs in the game (lineup glitch, too many wild pitches, etc.).

The bugs may annoy me......I'll take solid gameplay over presentation. I'm STILL waiting on my 2K5 though...GameStop sucks ass for shipping

[Derwood43]

OP

Have you thought about making a poll in this thread?

I'm still undecided on which to buy. I'm looking for CAG's to help me out.


Just a thought.

[doubledown]

OP

Have you thought about making a poll in this thread?

I'm still undecided on which to buy. I'm looking for CAG's to help me out.


Just a thought.

You ask, you receive!!!!

I'm still unsure also....rented MVP and i think it's great, but ESPN 2K5 is on the way

[maxflight]

I think I'm leaning towards 2k5 because it's probably easier getting online.

what's the lineup bug?

[lionheart4life]

So far MVP is ahead of ESPN 2k5 86.5% to 84% on Gamerankings. Good to see them both rated well though.

[Derwood43]

OP

Have you thought about making a poll in this thread?

I'm still undecided on which to buy. I'm looking for CAG's to help me out.


Just a thought.

You ask, you receive!!!!

I'm still unsure also....rented MVP and i think it's great, but ESPN 2K5 is on the way


Thanks.

[Matt Young]

I swear to God, this game (MVP) does not want me to win 3 straight games in Owner's Mode. I had won the first 2 contests and dropped the last in each of my previous 3 series going into my 3 game set with the Mariners at Comiskey Park.

I won the first 2 games and then went up 3-1 in the 7th inning of game 3 on surging Joe Crede's 4th home run in 6 games. The very next half inning, the M's got an inside the park home run after Jermaine Dye let a routine fly ball roll right past him. That scored 2 runs to tie it up. The very next at bat saw Ichiro hit a triple and then score following an error on the throw to the plate. I went down 4-3.

Luckily, I got some guys on base in the bottom of the 9th, tied it on a sac fly from Juan Uribe, and then won 5-4 via a Frank Thomas single. Finally, a series sweep and a 3rd straight win to bring my record to 9-3, tied for the best in the majors.

This game's out to get me... it's true. But I still love it.

MLB 2K5 shall be mine today, so I'll be able to experience some good online baseball, assuming Street Fighter Anniversary Collection (which I'm also getting today) doesn't suck away all my game time.

[Monsta Mack]

So has anyone figured out how to get rid of vibration for MLB2k5 over Live?

[SteveMcQ]

Finally. MVP has arrived. Gonna play a few games. Can't wait for Sunday for MLB2K5 to go on sale. Odd this excitement, even though I don't like baseball.

[maxflight]

Finally. MVP has arrived. Gonna play a few games. Can't wait for Sunday for MLB2K5 to go on sale. Odd this excitement, even though I don't like baseball.

I hear ya. usually I don't really care much about baseball games, but this year I'm psyched to get one, but I do think it has a lot to do with the fact that the baseball games aren't $50 anymore.

I'm heading to circuit city sunday too.

[doubledown]

I'm pissed...I pre-ordered 2K5 from GameStop.com and it's STILL not here. They have to have the SLOWEST shipping around. Value or not, it sucks balls. Been over a week since it's shipped. Last time I order a game online. I guess it's my fault though...save money on tax..yeah.

I have to return MVP baseball soon.....I just hope 2K5 is good, if not...trading it in towards MVP ;)

[maxflight]

I'm pissed...I pre-ordered 2K5 from GameStop.com and it's STILL not here. They have to have the SLOWEST shipping around. Value or not, it sucks balls. Been over a week since it's shipped. Last time I order a game online. I guess it's my fault though...save money on tax..yeah.

I have to return MVP baseball soon.....I just hope 2K5 is good, if not...trading it in towards MVP ;)

you can easily just pick up 2K5 at any store and just return it when the copy from mail arrives.

[Matt Young]

So I got MLB 2K5.

I played a couple of games and I hated it. I mean, it was less enjoyable than getting raped up the ass with a razor sharp dick while doing calculus homework. It induced a headache. I could barely finish a game, it was so bad. It made me long for the days of Mike Piazza's Strike Zone on the N64.

However, once I got used to things, the game is alright. It's not as good as MVP, the animations and camera suck, and the pitching and batting systems are flawed, but it's a fun, above average game. Worth $20, but nowhere near the quality of 2K Sports' basketball and football games.

I took the game online and lost 4-1 to the Giants (although the loss appears on my games history, it didn't appear on my record... weird). The online play was really fun and was a lot smoother than EA's online play. It was actually just as smooth as playing offline. So even if I don't do a franchise on MLB 2K5, I can at least enjoy some fine Xbox Live action and maybe join a league.

I only hope that 2K Sports improves the overall game by next year to complement the awesome online play.

[supergm]

h-town
when batting you have to hold the right analog stick in the direction of the ball....for example if the ball is down and to the right you must hold the joystick on an angle between down and right and swing at the same time...after a pitch the red circle that is shown is where you placed your bat during a swing...you can use that to gauge how close you are coming...i hope this makes sense....since i figured this out i'm hitting homers and hits alot more...plus i always swing with the power swing button(B)...instead of a contact swing(A)
P.S. THIS IS A GREAT GAME

[supergm]

ROCK
IS THERE ANY WAY TO FIX THE LINEUPS IN THE GLITCH....i play with my friend and i was the mets...i started the game and could not get pedro out of the batting lineups...this is with the dh rule on and even pulling him out before starting the game
thanks

[cruzincontrol]

I'm considering getting both b/c I think ESPN has classic teams and players while MVP may not...and I've heard ESPN has the best commentary....Didn't read about gameplay yet...Any confirmations?

[maccabee72]

I'm considering getting both b/c I think ESPN has classic teams and players while MVP may not...and I've heard ESPN has the best commentary....Didn't read about gameplay yet...Any confirmations?

Not sure about ESPN, but MVP has classic players, teams,uniforms, and stadiums.

[doubledown]

I'm considering getting both b/c I think ESPN has classic teams and players while MVP may not...and I've heard ESPN has the best commentary....Didn't read about gameplay yet...Any confirmations?

From the posts I've been following

Presentation = 2K5
Gameplay = MVP

I guess 2K5 has a lot of bugs.....passed ball, lineup glitch and a few others I think. MVP seems flawless thus far.

I've only rented MVP, but enjoyed it....I may have to buy it. I'll probably own both though.....I think LIVE play is smoother on 2K5. I know last year I couldn't handle it....seemed like a K fest.

[Matt Young]

MVP is definitely better, but ESPN has grown on me and is a good game in spite of its flaws.

Gameplay, realism, graphics, franchise mode: MVP wins

Online play, extras, presentation: ESPN MLB wins

If I had to rate both games on a scale of 1-10 (compared to other sports games, not those of other genres) I'd give MVP an 8.5 and MLB 2K5 a 7.

Both are worth a purchase, but MVP is the way to go if you have to choose one as far as I'm concerned- although if online play is your main priority, that may not hold true. Of course, some people prefer 2K5, so you may want to rent first.

The vague nature of that post likely helped no one, so my job is done.

[doubledown]

Yeah, I'm a big FRANCHISE fan....although I thought the owner mode was a bit lame in MVP.

I'll probably get both, since my fiends have 2K5 for LIVE play

[Matt Young]

I've played a few games of MVP over the last couple days after setting it aside for some MLB 2K5 (which I still don't much care for) and a return to Halo 2 online after 2 weeks.

I'm now 13-5, tied with the Athletics (with whom I have a 3 game series after one more game with KC) and Cubs for the best record in the majors. The A's series will be tough as they are averaging 6 runs per game to my 3 or so.

I just finished a 2-0 victory over the Royals. Jose Contreras pitched a 2 hitter, the first complete game of the season by any of my pitchers. I was tempted to put in Shingo Takatsu so he could go for his 10th save in I believe 11 tries, but I let Contreras go the distance instead.

I realized for the first time that the position players get tired and need a day off every once in a while. Some guys had energy as low as 69%. So for this game, I had a ragtag lineup including Carl Everett replacing the .333 hitting Willie Harris at 2nd base/leadoff, Ben Davis replacing A.J. Pierzynski, who was coming off a 2 homer game, at catcher (since AJ's a lefty and we were facing a lefty pitcher), and the just-created #37, Matt Young, replacing Scott Podsednik in center field.

My created guy went 1 for 4, but I'm going to give him about 3-4 more games for evaluation before I decide whether to keep him on the squad or demote him to the minors for further development.

Paul Konerko has been in a horrible slump, having several 0-fers lately. His average is down to .181. I moved him down to 6th in the order as a result (from cleanup) and he went 1 for 4, but that 1 hit was a home run. Go figure.

After a couple more games (should be tonight or tomorrow), I'll be 1/8th of the way through my season. I plan to be a quarter of the way through before the real MLB season starts, and I hope that this game will be the first non-football game that I finish a full length season on. I'd like to play at least 2, but at 162 games and with all the other titles I have (plus Xbox Live) occupying my time, I don't know if I'll ever finish.

[SteveMcQ]

I've put in just about ten games in MVP since I got it. I'm quite amazed that a baseball game has held my attention this long. The scores tend to be on the low side, but it's all very fun. The hitting I find to be a little difficult. I've only hit about 4 or 5 homeruns so far. Not sure if that's a high or low number sim-wise. I really have to get used to the timing aspect since I either make contact early, or too late.

I'll look into getting MLB, but CCs are all out of stock. Damn.

[SteveMcQ]

Just got MLB today and played four or five games. First off, the graphics were astounding when I first booted it up. Player models, stadium fly-throughs and the whole ballpark presentation were great. Some player faces are odd looking though.

Animations definetely aren't as good as MVP. There are just some awkward looking throws and chugginess to some frames.

Sound is fantastic. From player taunts (the first few I heard got me laughing) to the announcers, are just great. They just keep talking and it all flows smoothly. The creack of the bat sounds a little anemic though. Like a whole bunch of matchsticks being snapped.

Fielding is really dull. The animation's are a letdown from MVP and just pressing a button without the power bar seems oddly out of place now.

Hitting, well, I suck at as do I in MVP. Not too fond of the separate hitting buttons though.

Pitching is surprisingly decent. I do like the K-Zone pitching system, but not as much as MVPs. The click-click gameplay feels boring in comparison. It's got a similar meter pitching system as MVP, but it's overly complicated and not tied into the animation as well.

The Slamzone "feature" is crap. I turned it off after the first game.

I picked this up for the online though. SP I'll be going with MVP, but it's great to have to baseball games for under $40 (I got both on sale--MVP from EA w/coupon and MLB from CC sale this week).

[Matt Young]

I guess I'm the only person who thought MLB's graphics were horrible. The player models look disproportionate and very first gen PlayStation 2.

[SteveMcQ]

I'm just talking about player models from the neck down. There's some ugly looking faces. I actually prefer the face models on MVP. And mostly about the batters. The on the field ones look weird. Or is that attributed to animation?

[Matt Young]

I don't know. I'm talking about the players altogether, not just the faces.

I just played another game. I like the pitching, but the hitting is terrible.

I really wish I wouldn't have bought MLB, but that may change once the league starts up. Online play is pretty fun, and that's the main reason I bought the game after already acquiring MVP, but when playing the CPU, it seems like every time I start having a good time, something happens that makes me wonder if I would've gotten more value and fun out of my $20 by paying a sadomasochistic hooker to cut my genitalia with broken beer bottles and infect me with chlamydia.

[sabin23]

I just picked up MLB 2K5 on Saturday for $12.98... will probably get MVP 2005 on Sunday when it goes on sale at TRU ($19.99). I look forward to playing these games. I haven't invested money in any new baseball games since the 1st Ken Griffey Jr. Baseball for SNES back in 1994. Anybody remember that game? Great game, holds up well.

Basically I would edit the players and roster names (like Will Clark becomes JT Snow, Mike Benjamin is Omar Vizquel, etc). Been playing that game each year the past 10 or so MLB seasons! Today, only 1-player remains from that 1993 Giants squad - it's still fun to knock out dingers with Barry Bonds (pre-steroids). Even then he was the top-rated player in the game (next to Griffey of course).

But I digress... it sounds like all ya'll are having fun with the new games. I look forward to joining the crowd soon. I have no idea how I'm going to play both MVP & MLB 2K5 (not to mention Madden, NFL 2K5, NBA Live, NBA 2K5, NHL 2K5, etc)... Sounds most people here like MVP is better.