

In Wrigley Field, for example, the signature organ plays in between at-bats. Crowds jump from their seats to catch foul balls. The game also adds more ambience compared to previous versions. The bevy of training modes provide a great avenue for new players to learn the game, which can feel complicated if you've never played. While MLB 09 doesn't make major changes, smart tweaks have been made to the formula. As a result, each at-bat feels rewarding when you earn that strikeout as a pitcher or slam a homerun. They mix up their pitches, move swiftly across the field, and exhibit patience while waiting for the ideal pitch to knock out of the park. Computer-controlled players are challenging both on the mound and inside the batter's box. Players move so fluidly, it would be easy to mistake the virtual athletes for the real thing. MLB 09 boasts the most authentic baseball experience available. MLB 09 has also introduced online leagues and custom chants players can record and put inside the game. For those unfamiliar with the franchise, Road to the Show also lets players create their own athlete and guide him through the minor leagues into the majors. The Road to the Show incorporates additional training features as well. After each at-bat, players can click on the left analog stick to view the timing and approach in their previous swing through a small chart. Since this is a game released yearly, the core mechanics of the game remain intact, but MLB 09 adds some interesting features to help players improved their skills. Franchise Mode allows players to manage teams more closely, performing tasks ranging from signing new players to planning stadium promotions. Players can take control of their favorite MLB team and lead them to victory in exhibition games, or guide them through entire seasons. This season's star is Sony's MLB 09: THE SHOW, an incredibly deep Major League Baseball simulation. Spring training has arrived, which means the return of the national pasttime to the video game realm.
