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MONSTER

MLB The Show 23

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of MLB The Show 23
Item: MLB The Show 23
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresSimulation, Sports, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableMar 24, 2023

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

DeveloperSan Diego Studio

Overview

Shock The Game. Own The Show.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

MLB The Show 23's new Story mode, highlighting the Negro Leagues, is a hit with critics for its educational value and captivating storytelling, especially praised for Bob Kendrick's narration. While some point out limitations like a disjointed single-player experience, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, making it a must-try for baseball fans eager to explore rich history.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

94%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the Story mode in MLB The Show 23 is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the introduction of the new Storylines mode that focuses on the history of the Negro Leagues. Reviewers like CGMagazine and COGconnected highlight this addition as a phenomenal aspect of the game, noting its educational value and the opportunity it provides to learn about significant figures in baseball history. Critics such as Game Informer and New York Daily News emphasize the rich narrative context and the compelling storytelling, particularly through the engaging narration by Bob Kendrick. The mode is described as both captivating and insightful, with many reviewers, including PlayStation Universe and We Got This Covered, appreciating how it allows players to interact with the stories of legendary players, enhancing the game's overall narrative depth. However, some critics have pointed out certain limitations within the Story mode. BaziCenter notes that while the historical focus is commendable, the gameplay experience is restricted to a single player, which can create a disjointed sense of progression. Gaming Age echoes this sentiment, suggesting that the execution of the Storylines mode feels less fleshed out compared to other game modes. This indicates a potential area for improvement, as some players may desire a more robust and interconnected experience within the narrative. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among reviewers is that MLB The Show 23's Story mode is a significant and commendable addition to the franchise. The majority of critics agree that the focus on the Negro Leagues adds a valuable historical and educational dimension to the game, making it a must-experience for baseball fans. Critics like Twinfinite and Wccftech underscore the mode's ability to provide a fun and engaging way to explore baseball history, while others like Atomix and Pure Xbox appreciate the educational aspect of the content. In summary, while there are some concerns regarding the execution and depth of the gameplay experience, the positive reception of the Story mode's historical focus and narrative richness overwhelmingly prevails.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

MLB The Show 23 features praised gameplay improvements like a refined attribute system and enhanced swing feedback, making it accessible for all players. However, critics lament the lack of substantial innovation, deeming the experience repetitive for veterans. New features add depth, but many feel the game lacks fresh content, leaving it enjoyable yet unexciting for longtime fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

68%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of MLB The Show 23 has received a mix of praise and critique from various reviewers, highlighting several positive aspects. Critics like Attack of the Fanboy and Game Informer commend the gameplay improvements, particularly the refined attribute system and enhanced swing feedback, which contribute to a more immersive experience. The inclusion of new features, such as the designated hitter (DH) rule and the ability to use two-way players, as noted by Dexerto, adds depth to the gameplay. Additionally, several reviewers, including Digital Chumps and GamersRD, appreciate the intuitive controls and the overall fluidity of the game, making it accessible for both casual gamers and seasoned players. The improvements in fielding and pitching mechanics, as highlighted by CGMagazine and GameSpot, further elevate the gameplay experience, offering a more skill-based approach that many players find engaging. On the other hand, a significant number of critics express disappointment regarding the lack of substantial innovation in the gameplay compared to previous iterations. BaziCenter and Gaming Age point out that while there are minor improvements, the overall experience feels repetitive for returning players, with many core mechanics remaining largely unchanged. Critics like ComicBook and SpazioGames echo this sentiment, noting that the gameplay feels stale and lacks fresh content, particularly in modes like Franchise and Road to the Show. Furthermore, Everyeye.it highlights the absence of new MLB rules as a drawback, which could have added a layer of realism and engagement to the gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while MLB The Show 23 offers solid and enjoyable gameplay with incremental improvements, it falls short of delivering a groundbreaking experience. Many reviewers, such as IGN and Wccftech, recognize the game's strengths in accessibility and fluid mechanics but also emphasize the need for more significant innovations to keep the franchise feeling fresh. The mixed feedback indicates that while new players might find the game appealing and engaging, veterans of the series may feel less inclined to invest in this iteration due to its familiar and somewhat repetitive nature.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

MLB The Show 23 boasts impressive visuals and attention to detail, especially in animations and stadium designs, earning praise from critics. However, many argue the graphics feel outdated and lack next-gen enhancements, leaving a divide in opinions. While some celebrate its immersive experience, others point out it hasn't evolved enough compared to modern sports games, indicating a need for significant graphical upgrades.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

49%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

46%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of MLB The Show 23 have received a generally positive reception from critics, with many praising the game's attention to detail and improvements in specific areas. Attack of the Fanboy highlights the addition of new animations, which contribute to the game's overall visual appeal. BaziCenter and GamersRD commend the high-quality player models and stadium designs, placing the game among the best in the sports genre. Critics like Digital Chumps and IGN note the stunning visuals, particularly in stadium design and lighting, which enhance the immersive experience of attending a baseball game. The attention to detail in recreating historical uniforms and stadiums, especially in the Storylines mode, is also well-received, as noted by PSX Brasil and Twinfinite. However, several critics have pointed out significant drawbacks in the graphics and visual design. ComicBook and Everyeye.it express disappointment with the overall graphics, suggesting that the game feels outdated and does not meet next-gen standards. Critics like Hardcore Gamer and Push Square emphasize that the visuals show their age, with stale graphics and a lack of ray tracing technology. The sentiment is echoed by SpazioGames, which notes that the game still feels like a last-generation title, lacking substantial visual improvements compared to its predecessor. This mixed feedback indicates a divide between those who appreciate the enhancements and those who feel the game has not progressed sufficiently. Overall, the consensus among critics is that MLB The Show 23 offers a visually appealing experience, particularly in terms of animations and stadium details, but it is hampered by an outdated graphics engine that fails to fully utilize the capabilities of next-gen consoles. While many reviewers, such as IGN and The Loadout, highlight the game's authenticity and immersive atmosphere, others like Digitally Downloaded and Wccftech suggest that it is starting to show its age compared to other top sports franchises. As a result, while the game excels in certain visual aspects, it also leaves room for improvement, particularly in updating its graphical fidelity to meet modern gaming standards.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

MLB The Show 23 improves sound design and music with better audio quality and a diverse soundtrack, earning praise from critics. However, commentary still feels generic and repetitive, especially on platforms like Nintendo Switch. Overall, while enhancements are noted, there's a call for further refinement to fully elevate the audio experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

42%

Negative Reviews (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 23 have garnered a mix of praise from critics, highlighting several areas of improvement and enhancement over previous iterations. Many reviewers, such as IGN and Game Informer, noted significant upgrades in audio quality, with realistic sound effects that capture the essence of baseball. The commentary has also seen enhancements, with critics like Everyeye.it and New Game Network acknowledging the reduced repetition and more engaging dialogue from the new announcing team. Additionally, the soundtrack has been highlighted positively by critics like Atomix and Pure Xbox, who praised its diverse mix of iconic songs, suggesting that it adds a vibrant layer to the overall gaming experience. However, despite the improvements, there are notable criticisms regarding the sound design and commentary. Attack of the Fanboy and Gaming Age pointed out that the commentary can still feel generic and repetitive, detracting from the immersive experience. Critics like Digital Chumps and Twinfinite echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that while the commentary adds excitement, it often falls flat compared to other sports games. Furthermore, there are concerns regarding the sound design on different platforms, with Gaming Age's review of the Nintendo Switch version indicating that the audio quality does not match the experience on more powerful consoles. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while MLB The Show 23 has made commendable strides in sound design and music, particularly with improved audio effects and a more varied soundtrack, there are still areas that require attention. The commentary, while better than in previous versions, remains a point of contention, with several reviewers calling for further refinement to avoid repetition and enhance engagement. The mixed feedback suggests that while the game is on the right track, balancing the audio experience remains a critical area for future updates and improvements.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Bob Kendrick’s narration of the Negro League storylines in MLB The Show 23 is widely hailed as "immaculate" and adds rich historical depth, winning praise from critics. However, the overall commentary suffers from repetitiveness and a lack of chemistry, indicating a divide in voice acting quality within the game. While Kendrick shines, the commentary duo leaves something to be desired.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

57%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in MLB The Show 23 has garnered significant praise, particularly for the contributions of Bob Kendrick, who narrates the Negro League storylines. Critics from COGconnected, ComicBook, and IGN all highlight Kendrick's narration as "immaculate," "captivating," and "passionate," noting how it adds depth and historical insight to the game's storytelling. This sentiment is echoed by the New York Daily News, which commends Kendrick for delivering profound insights into the players’ careers, thereby enriching the overall narrative experience. The consistent recognition of Kendrick's performance across multiple reviews indicates a strong consensus on the positive impact of his voice acting in enhancing the game's atmosphere and authenticity. However, not all aspects of the voice acting received the same level of acclaim. Critics such as Digital Chumps and Gaming Age pointed out that while the Negro Leagues mode excels in narration, the overall commentary lacks variety and can feel repetitive. Digital Chumps specifically noted that the commentary, while historically insightful, does not maintain the same level of engagement throughout the game. Similarly, Twinfinite remarked on the lack of chemistry and engagement in the overall commentary, suggesting that the dynamic between the commentary duo, Jon 'Boog' Sciambi and Chris Singleton, could be improved. This criticism highlights a divide in the quality of voice acting within different segments of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a strong appreciation for Bob Kendrick's narration in the Negro League storylines, which is seen as a highlight of the game's voice acting. However, there is a notable concern regarding the overall commentary, which some reviewers found to be repetitive and lacking in variety. While Kendrick's contributions are universally praised for their depth and passion, the commentary duo's performance received mixed reviews, suggesting that while MLB The Show 23 excels in certain areas of voice acting, there is still room for improvement in others.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

MLB The Show 23 is mostly praised for its smooth performance, especially on PS5, with minimal frame drops and solid loading times. However, critics note issues like occasional hiccups and online slowdowns on PS5, minor latency on Xbox Series X, and significant graphics and frame rate problems on Nintendo Switch. Overall, the game shows improvement but still has technical shortcomings across platforms that need addressing.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

32%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

68%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of MLB The Show 23 has generally received positive feedback across all platforms, particularly on the PlayStation 5. Critics like COGconnected and GamersRD noted that the game runs smoothly with minimal frame drops and good loading times, contributing to a solid overall experience. Digital Chumps praised the improved stability and balance of the online experience, while PSX Brasil echoed this sentiment by not highlighting any significant technical issues, suggesting a smooth gameplay experience. Additionally, SpazioGames remarked on the stable technical performance, indicating that offline modes ran without major issues, further enhancing the enjoyment for players. However, there are notable negatives that critics have pointed out, particularly on the PS5. Game Informer mentioned occasional technical hiccups that disrupt immersion, while Everyeye.it raised concerns about CPU player stamina issues that may necessitate a patch. The Loadout highlighted performance issues during online play, especially slowdowns during critical moments, which could hinder competitive gameplay. On the Xbox Series X, SECTOR.sk and Shacknews noted minor technical issues, including long loading times and latency problems in online matches, detracting from the overall experience. Meanwhile, the Nintendo Switch version faced more significant criticisms, with Gaming Age pointing out the console's limitations affecting graphics and sound quality, and Nintendo Life mentioning troublesome frame rates that feel sluggish compared to other platforms. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while MLB The Show 23 delivers a largely stable and enjoyable experience, especially on the PS5 and Xbox Series X, there are notable technical shortcomings that need addressing. The PS5 version is praised for its performance, but issues such as immersion-breaking hiccups and online slowdowns have been flagged. The Xbox Series X version is stable but suffers from latency and loading issues. The Nintendo Switch version, while running smoothly at times, is hampered by the console's limitations and lingering technical problems from previous iterations. This mixed feedback suggests that while the game has made strides in technical performance, there is still room for improvement across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

MLB The Show 23 boasts strong replay value with diverse modes like Diamond Dynasty and Franchise keeping players engaged, thanks to new features like Storylines and the World Baseball Classic. While some critics note a lack of significant innovation and frustrations with certain modes, the overall consensus is positive, suggesting the game offers enough content to satisfy both newcomers and veterans, despite concerns about monotony.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

42%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of MLB The Show 23 is largely positive, with many critics praising the variety of game modes and the engaging content available. Reviewers from Attack of the Fanboy and CGMagazine highlight the many reasons to keep playing beyond the initial excitement, with modes like Diamond Dynasty and Franchise providing ongoing challenges and opportunities for player engagement. Critics such as Game Informer and GamersRD emphasize the game's extensive content, which allows players to approach the game from different angles and levels of commitment. The addition of new features, such as the Storylines mode and the World Baseball Classic, is also noted by Everyeye.it and PSX Brasil as enhancements that contribute to the game's replay value. On the other hand, some critics express concerns about the game's replayability, particularly for long-time fans. BaziCenter and Gaming Age point out that the lack of significant changes from previous versions may lead to a sense of monotony, potentially diminishing the incentive for players to invest time in this year's edition. Other critics, like Hardcore Gamer, mention frustrations with certain modes and the reset of progress in Diamond Dynasty, which could deter players from fully engaging with the game. Additionally, while some modes are praised, others are described as feeling flat or uninspired, as noted by Nintendo Life and Digitally Downloaded. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that MLB The Show 23 offers substantial replay value through its diverse modes and ongoing content updates, particularly in Diamond Dynasty and Franchise. While there are valid concerns regarding the perceived lack of innovation and some repetitive elements, the game's core gameplay and new features are generally seen as sufficient to keep players engaged. Critics like We Got This Covered and IGN highlight the seasonal changes and evolving challenges that contribute to a lasting experience, suggesting that while some players may find the game less enticing than previous iterations, there remains a solid foundation for replayability that appeals to both new and returning players.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

84%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

16%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding MLB The Show 23 is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its engaging gameplay, the introduction of the Storylines mode, and the overall refinement of the franchise. Reviewers like Game Informer and We Got This Covered highlighted the game as one of the best installments yet, emphasizing its deep connection to baseball history and the educational elements of the new modes. The addition of the Negro Leagues mode was particularly noted as a standout feature by critics such as New York Daily News and Digital Chumps, who appreciated the historical context and storytelling that enrich the gaming experience. Furthermore, the gameplay mechanics were generally lauded for their polish and authenticity, with CGMagazine and COGconnected noting that the game successfully appeals to both fans of the sport and sports gaming enthusiasts. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics pointed out significant shortcomings that detract from the experience. Reviewers like Digitally Downloaded and Gaming Age expressed concerns over the lack of substantial innovations compared to previous titles, suggesting that the game feels more like an update than a new installment. Critics also mentioned issues with certain game modes, particularly Road to the Show, which several reviewers found disappointing or in need of improvement. Additionally, some critiques were directed at graphical limitations and the absence of recent MLB rule changes, as noted by Everyeye.it and Hardcore Gamer, which could potentially hinder the experience for new players or those looking for a fresh take on the series. The consensus among critics is that MLB The Show 23 is a solid entry in the series, successfully delivering an enjoyable baseball simulation while introducing meaningful new content. While some reviewers like Digitally Downloaded and Gaming Age cautioned against its perceived stagnation, the majority, including Attack of the Fanboy and IGN, highlighted the game as a worthy purchase for baseball fans. The positive reception of the Storylines mode, in particular, seems to have resonated well across the board, with many critics agreeing that it adds significant value to the overall package. Ultimately, MLB The Show 23 is seen as a commendable iteration that balances nostalgia and innovation, making it a recommended choice for both returning players and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

MLB The Show 23 is receiving strong praise for its engaging gameplay, the new Storylines mode, and historical depth, especially with the introduction of the Negro Leagues. Critics hail it as one of the franchise's best yet. However, some highlight a lack of major innovations and issues with certain modes, notably Road to the Show, as potential drawbacks. Overall, it’s regarded as a solid baseball simulation that offers value for fans, striking a balance between nostalgia and fresh content, making it a recommended buy.

MONSTER

Reviews

65 reviews found

GamersRD

PlayStation 5

Mar 28, 2023

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

MLB The Show 23 is an excellent game with polished gameplay, beautiful graphics, and a wealth of modes, though it lacks some recent rule changes.

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We Got This Covered

PlayStation 5

Apr 3, 2023

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

MLB The Show 23 is praised as the best installment yet, successfully refreshing the franchise with new features and a deep connection to baseball history.

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IGN Adria

PlayStation 5

Apr 11, 2023

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

The review overall praises MLB The Show 23 as the best edition so far, with improvements in various aspects and positive reception from fans.

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But Why Tho?

Xbox Series X

Apr 14, 2023

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

The overall verdict is positive, with the game being praised for revamping the formula and the importance of the Storylines: Negro Leagues mode.

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COGconnected

PlayStation 5

Apr 3, 2023

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

MLB The Show 23 is the best baseball simulation game on the market, providing an authentic representation of the sport. Despite minor issues, it is an excellent package.

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Comicbook.com

PlayStation 5

Apr 7, 2023

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

MLB The Show 23 is likely one of the strongest entries that we've received in quite some time.

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ComicBook

PlayStation 5

Apr 7, 2023

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

MLB The Show 23 is one of the strongest entries in the series, with the Storylines mode being a standout feature, though some aspects feel stagnant.

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NintendoWorldReport

Nintendo Switch

Mar 28, 2023

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

An incredible baseball game with flexible gameplay and real-life players.

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TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Apr 24, 2023

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

MLB The Show 23 is highly recommended for anyone interested in baseball, with its accessible gameplay, fantastic presentation, and the greatest baseball game of all time.

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PlayStation Country

PlayStation 5

Apr 12, 2023

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

The reviewer likes MLB The Show 23 a lot and sees themselves playing it for a long time.

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