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MLB The Show 25

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of MLB The Show 25
Item: MLB The Show 25
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresThird Person Perspective, Simulation, Sports, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableMar 18, 2025

PlatformPlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch

DeveloperSan Diego Studio

Overview

Forge your baseball journey in The Show

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

MLB The Show 25's Storylines mode offers a commendable tribute to the Negro Leagues, featuring historical icons and engaging narration by Bob Kendrick. Critics praise its educational value but are disappointed by a lack of depth and new content, feeling it falls short compared to previous iterations. The experience is seen as repetitive and underdeveloped, leaving many reviewers craving richer narratives and more engaging gameplay. Overall, while the foundation is solid, execution needs improvement for future installments.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

52%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the story aspect of MLB The Show 25 is a mixed bag, with several positive highlights noted by critics. Many reviewers appreciate the continuation of the Storylines mode focusing on the Negro Leagues, which honors historical figures such as James 'Cool Papa' Bell and Wilbur 'Bullet Joe' Rogan. Critics like Atomix and Dot Esports commend the immersive experience and the educational content provided through playable moments that celebrate the contributions of these legendary players. The inclusion of narrated segments by Bob Kendrick is also seen as a significant enhancement, as noted by CGMagazine, which adds depth to the storytelling. Additionally, some reviewers, such as MeuPlayStation and Vandal, highlight the emotional and cultural richness that the narratives bring to the game, making it a notable aspect of the overall experience. However, the criticisms surrounding the story mode are quite pronounced and reflect a sense of disappointment among many reviewers. Critics like ComicBook and Forbes express concerns about the lack of depth and new content in the Storylines mode, describing it as feeling lackluster and like an afterthought. Several reviews, including those from Gaming Age and IGN, mention that the storytelling lacks significant advancements from previous iterations, with fewer stories and notable player narratives compared to earlier versions. This sentiment is echoed by Game Informer and GamersRD, who note that the missions feel brief and the overall experience lacks the excitement that fans might expect from a new installment in the series. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while MLB The Show 25's Storylines mode offers valuable historical context and educational content, it falls short in terms of depth and innovation. Reviewers appreciate the focus on the Negro Leagues and the historical significance it brings, as seen in the opinions of critics like Impulsegamer and LevelUp. However, the general feeling is that the mode feels repetitive and underdeveloped, with many reviewers, including Eurogamer Portugal and Shacknews, expressing a desire for more engaging narratives and player experiences. As a result, while the foundation of the storytelling is strong, the execution leaves many critics wanting more, suggesting that future iterations need to address these shortcomings to fully capitalize on the rich history of baseball.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

MLB The Show 25 impresses with innovative features like Ambush Hitting and the GOAT difficulty, earning praise for enhanced defensive mechanics and immersive gameplay. Critics note new modes and strategic depth add variety, though some highlight issues with Perfect/Perfect outs and a steep learning curve for newcomers. Overall, it delivers a strong experience that balances realism and accessibility, appealing to both casual gamers and hardcore fans despite some critiques of minimal changes from past iterations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of MLB The Show 25 has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting several innovative features and enhancements that contribute to a more engaging experience. Reviewers like Atomix and But Why Tho? commend the introduction of new mechanics such as Ambush Hitting and the GOAT difficulty setting, which not only elevate the challenge for seasoned players but also make the game more accessible for newcomers. Critics from CGMagazine and COGconnected emphasize the improvements in defensive mechanics and the overall strategic depth, noting that these changes make hitting, fielding, and baserunning more immersive and rewarding. Additionally, the introduction of modes like Diamond Quest and enhancements in Road to the Show and Diamond Dynasty have been praised for adding variety and depth to the gameplay experience, as highlighted by Eurogamer Portugal and GameSpot. Despite the overall positive sentiment, some critics pointed out areas where the gameplay could be improved. For instance, Dot Esports mentioned persistent issues with Perfect/Perfect outs, which can detract from the player experience. Critics like Gameliner and Gaming Age noted that while Ambush Hitting adds depth, the overall gameplay changes feel minimal and may not significantly enhance the experience for all players. Furthermore, some reviewers, such as Checkpoint Gaming, cautioned that the game requires a solid understanding of baseball mechanics, which could pose a challenge for newcomers. These critiques suggest that while the gameplay is solid, it may not be as universally appealing due to its learning curve and some lingering issues. Overall, the consensus among critics is that MLB The Show 25 presents a strong gameplay experience with notable innovations and refinements that enhance the core mechanics of the game. While some reviewers like Push Square and Meristation feel that the gameplay remains largely unchanged from previous iterations, they acknowledge the value of the new features like Ambush Hitting and improved pitching mechanics. The majority of critics agree that the enhancements contribute to a more strategic and immersive experience, making it a worthy installment in the franchise. With the balance of realism and accessibility highlighted by critics like Impulsegamer and MeuPlayStation, MLB The Show 25 appears to successfully cater to both casual players and hardcore baseball fans alike.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

MLB The Show 25 impresses with stunning graphics and realistic animations on PS5, receiving praise for its visual fidelity and stadium detail. However, critics highlight significant flaws like glitches, outdated player models, and minimal improvements since the previous installment. While the game showcases impressive visuals, it falls short of fully utilizing next-gen capabilities, leaving players wanting more. A mixed reception underscores both its strengths and shortcomings in visual design.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

40%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

48%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

12%

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

The graphics and visual design of MLB The Show 25 have garnered a range of opinions, with many critics praising the game's visual fidelity, particularly on the PS5. Atomix highlighted the "spectacular" graphics and realistic player movements, emphasizing the benefits of not having a PS4 version that could compromise quality. Impulsegamer echoed this sentiment, noting the impressive visual fidelity, detailed player models, and vibrant stadium environments that leverage the PS5's capabilities. Critics like Dot Esports and Digital Chumps also commended the game for maintaining a high standard in visuals, with Digital Chumps specifically praising the PS5 Pro version for its stunning visuals, including load times and lighting. Overall, there is a consensus that the game offers a visually impressive experience, particularly in terms of player animations and stadium detail. However, despite these positives, several critics pointed out significant shortcomings in the graphics and visual design of MLB The Show 25. Checkpoint Gaming noted the presence of visual glitches, such as texture issues and character model problems, which detract from the overall experience. Eurogamer Portugal and Forbes criticized the game for minimal improvements and outdated player models, suggesting that the visuals lag behind expectations for a 2025 title. Critics like GamersRD and GamingBolt echoed these concerns, stating that graphics have not evolved significantly from MLB The Show 24, with animations and player models remaining largely unchanged. This sentiment was further supported by Push Square, which indicated a lack of significant improvement in visuals compared to previous years. The overall consensus among critics is that while MLB The Show 25 showcases impressive graphics and a high level of detail, particularly in player animations and stadium environments, there are notable areas that require improvement. Many reviewers, including Gameliner and Meristation, pointed out that the game does not fully utilize the capabilities of current hardware, leaving players wanting more in terms of visual fidelity. The criticisms about stagnation in graphical improvements suggest that while the game is visually appealing, it has not made the leaps expected from a next-gen title. This mixed reception indicates that while MLB The Show 25 excels in certain aspects of graphics and visual design, it also faces challenges that detract from the overall experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

MLB The Show 25's sound design and music have garnered praise for their immersive and authentic audio, enhancing the baseball experience with realistic bat sounds and crowd reactions. Critics highlight the engaging soundtrack and captivating narration by Bob Kendrick. However, issues like commentary bugs and an inconsistent soundtrack have been noted, leading to some criticism. Overall, the game excels in creating a compelling audio atmosphere that elevates gameplay, despite a few shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

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 25 have received a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting the immersive audio effects and the overall atmosphere they create. Reviewers such as Atomix and LevelUp praised the sound design for its authenticity, with LevelUp specifically noting the realistic sounds of bat hits and crowd reactions, which contribute to an engaging baseball experience. Digital Chumps and Dot Esports also emphasized the effectiveness of audio feedback during gameplay, particularly the satisfying sounds associated with hitting the ball, which enhance immersion. The soundtrack has been recognized for its diversity and enjoyment, with Gameliner noting that it fits well within the game's context, especially during menu navigation. Furthermore, GameSpot highlighted the captivating narration by Bob Kendrick, which adds depth to the storytelling aspect of the game. Despite the overall praise, some critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the sound design and music. Forbes mentioned bugs in the commentary, which detracts from the overall experience, while IGN Italia criticized the soundtrack selection for lacking coherence. Game Informer echoed this sentiment, suggesting that while crowd reactions enhance the experience, some sounds, like the excitement of the crowd, can feel artificial. Additionally, Gamesurf noted that while the soundtrack is diverse, it may come across as inconsistent, mixing various genres that do not always blend seamlessly. This inconsistency may leave players wanting a more cohesive audio experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that MLB The Show 25 excels in creating an immersive sound environment that captures the essence of baseball. Reviewers such as Impulsegamer and Gameliner emphasized the authentic crowd noise and realistic sound effects, which contribute to an atmosphere that feels true to life. While there are some criticisms regarding commentary bugs and soundtrack coherence, the majority of critics agree that the sound design significantly enhances the gameplay experience. The combination of effective audio feedback, engaging commentary, and a diverse soundtrack creates a compelling audio landscape that complements the overall enjoyment of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

MLB The Show 25's voice acting shines, particularly Bob Kendrick's charismatic narration in Storylines mode, enhancing the game's narrative. Critics praise the engaging main commentators but raise concerns about the lack of voice acting in Road to the Show, repetitive commentary, and inaccuracies disrupting immersion. While overall reception is positive, critics urge improvements for future editions, especially regarding accessibility and variety.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting 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 voice acting.

The voice acting in MLB The Show 25 has garnered a largely positive reception among critics, particularly highlighting the contributions of Bob Kendrick in the Storylines mode. Critics like Atomix and GameSpot praise Kendrick's narration for being both charismatic and educational, enriching the storytelling experience and adding depth to the game's narrative elements. Additionally, GameBlast notes the charm of being able to switch narrators from different eras, which enhances the overall atmosphere during matches. The main commentators have been described as engaging and entertaining by Digital Chumps, while Gamesurf emphasizes the high quality of the voice acting, contributing to an immersive experience that resonates well with players. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the voice acting, particularly in the Road to the Show mode. ComicBook points out that the absence of voice acting in cutscenes detracts from the overall presentation, making it feel less engaging. Furthermore, Forbes mentions issues with inaccuracies in the commentary, which, while enjoyable overall, can disrupt the immersion. Critics like IGN Italia highlight that while returning commentators bring new lines, they can also be repetitive and verbose, which may detract from the freshness of the experience. Vandal raises an accessibility concern, noting that the game is released entirely in English, potentially limiting its reach among non-English speaking players. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while MLB The Show 25 features strong voice acting that enhances the gameplay experience, there are areas that need improvement. The engaging narration by Bob Kendrick and the quality of the main commentary contribute positively to the game's atmosphere, as noted by critics like Impulsegamer and GamingBolt. However, the lack of voice acting in certain modes and issues with repetitiveness and accuracy in commentary are valid concerns that some reviewers, such as ComicBook and Forbes, have highlighted. Thus, while the voice acting is a strong point for the game, it is not without its flaws, suggesting that future iterations could benefit from addressing these shortcomings.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

MLB The Show 25's technical performance is a mixed bag across platforms. The PS5 version shines with smooth gameplay and DualSense perks, but suffers from glitches, AI issues, and frame drops. Xbox Series X users face bugs and lag, while the Nintendo Switch offers decent performance marred by slow load times. Overall, while the game shows promise, significant technical flaws remain, necessitating urgent developer attention for future updates.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

38%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

48%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

14%

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

The technical performance of MLB The Show 25 has garnered a mix of opinions across different gaming platforms, particularly the PS5, Xbox Series X, and Nintendo Switch. On the PS5, many critics praised the game's overall smooth performance, with Atomix highlighting effective use of DualSense features and Impulsegamer noting high frame rates during intense gameplay moments. Forbes and GamingBolt echoed this sentiment, reporting that the game performs well overall, with a polished presentation. Critics like CGMagazine and Dot Esports also mentioned a stable experience, suggesting that the game generally runs well on the platform. However, the PS5 version is not without its flaws. Several reviewers, including Checkpoint Gaming and COGconnected, pointed out frequent visual glitches and technical issues, such as indecisive AI and hiccups in fielding, which disrupt immersion. IGN Italia noted frame rate drops and bugs, indicating the need for stability improvements. Additionally, MeuPlayStation mentioned that the reliance on online servers for certain modes could affect performance, especially at launch. This mixed feedback suggests that while the game has a solid foundation, it still suffers from notable technical shortcomings. When considering the Xbox Series X and Nintendo Switch, the consensus is similarly varied. Shacknews reported bugs affecting stadium selection and lag during online play on the Xbox Series X, while on the Nintendo Switch, Gaming Age praised the game's surprisingly good performance without noticeable issues, contrasting with NintendoWorldReport's observations of slow load times that detract from the experience. Overall, critics seem to agree that while MLB The Show 25 has made strides in technical performance across platforms, it still faces challenges that impact gameplay, particularly on the PS5 and Nintendo Switch. The general sentiment indicates that while the game is well-developed, there are significant areas for improvement that the developers need to address in future updates.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

MLB The Show 25 is largely praised for its impressive replay value, thanks to diverse modes like Diamond Quest, Diamond Dynasty, and Road to the Show that keep players engaged with randomized challenges and ongoing updates. While some critics raise concerns about minimal updates and the long-term appeal of new modes, the consensus remains that it’s a robust game for baseball fans, promising plenty of enjoyment throughout the year.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

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 25 is largely positive, with many critics praising the game's diverse modes and engaging gameplay. Reviewers like Atomix and Dot Esports highlighted the variety of modes, including the new Diamond Quest and established favorites like Diamond Dynasty and Road to the Show, which provide players with ample opportunities for replayability. Critics such as IGN and GameSpot emphasized how the introduction of randomized challenges and the evolving nature of these modes keep players engaged and motivated to return. The game's continuous updates and competitive elements, as noted by Digital Chumps and Impulsegamer, further enhance its replay value, making it appealing to both casual and hardcore fans. However, not all opinions are uniformly positive. Critics like GamersRD expressed concerns about the replay value being questionable due to minimal updates and a lack of significant new content, which could deter players who have recently purchased previous editions. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Gaming Age, suggested that while the game offers new modes, they may not be compelling enough for long-term engagement, particularly for those who have played earlier versions. Technical issues mentioned by NintendoWorldReport also hint at potential frustrations that could impact the overall experience for some players. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among the majority of critics is that MLB The Show 25 offers significant replay value. Most reviews, including those from CGMagazine and Checkpoint Gaming, agree that the game is designed to keep players engaged for extended periods, thanks to its variety of modes and customization options. The positive feedback from critics like Forbes and Meristation reinforces the idea that the game is a robust offering for baseball fans, ensuring that players will find plenty to enjoy throughout the year. Overall, while there are some reservations, the prevailing sentiment is that MLB The Show 25 is a strong contender for replayability in the sports game genre.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding MLB The Show 25 is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its significant improvements and innovations that enhance the gameplay experience. Reviewers like Atomix and Forbes highlight the game as a standout title in the franchise, celebrating its two decades of history. Critics such as CGMagazine and Digital Chumps commend the engaging new features and stunning visuals, indicating that the game offers a rich and immersive experience for baseball fans. Furthermore, LevelUp and Meristation recognize it as one of the best sports titles of the year, emphasizing its well-rounded nature and appeal to both fans and newcomers alike. However, despite the acclaim, several critics point out notable drawbacks that may affect the game's reception. Checkpoint Gaming and Gaming Age mention a steep learning curve and a sense of stagnation, suggesting that while the game is solid, it may not feel groundbreaking for long-time players. Additionally, some reviewers, like Dot Esports and IGN, criticize persistent issues in certain modes, particularly the Franchise mode and the Negro League storyline, which feel underdeveloped. Critics such as GamingBolt and GamersRD express concerns about minimal visual improvements and a lack of significant updates, which could make the game less appealing given its price point. In summary, the consensus among critics is that MLB The Show 25 is a worthy installment in the series, marked by substantial gameplay improvements and a wealth of content. While it successfully builds on its legacy and provides an authentic baseball experience, some persistent issues and a feeling of familiarity may limit its appeal to a broader audience. Overall, the game is well-received, with many critics, including Dexerto and Push Square, affirming its status as a must-play for baseball enthusiasts, despite acknowledging areas that could benefit from further refinement.

TL;DR

MLB The Show 25 garners predominantly positive reviews for its gameplay improvements and immersive experience, hailed as a standout in the franchise's 20-year history. Critics praise its engaging features and visuals, positioning it among the best sports titles of the year. However, some point to a steep learning curve and lingering issues in modes like Franchise, which could deter long-time players. Despite its flaws, it remains a must-play for baseball fans, though some critics feel it lacks groundbreaking updates for its price.

MONSTER

Reviews

55 reviews found

Forbes

PlayStation 5

Mar 21, 2025

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

MLB The Show 25 is considered the best baseball video game ever made, with a score of 9 out of 10, despite some areas needing improvement.

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But Why Tho?

PlayStation 5

Mar 19, 2025

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

MLB The Show 25 successfully builds on its legacy with minor improvements, making it an excellent addition to the franchise that fans will enjoy.

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LevelUp

PlayStation 5

May 21, 2025

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

MLB: The Show 25 is praised as the most complete entry in the franchise, offering a rich experience for baseball fans and newcomers alike, making it one of the best sports titles of the year.

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GameBlast

PlayStation 5

Apr 9, 2025

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

The game is highly rated at 9.0, indicating strong overall performance despite some drawbacks.

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Impulsegamer

PlayStation 5

Mar 25, 2025

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

MLB The Show 25 is a refined and immersive baseball experience that solidifies its position as the premier baseball simulation, making it a must-have for fans.

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Digital Chumps

PlayStation 5

Mar 24, 2025

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

MLB The Show 25 is considered a solid upgrade with improved gameplay, innovative features, and stunning visuals, making it a top choice for baseball fans.

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COGconnected

PlayStation 5

Mar 25, 2025

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

MLB The Show 25 is a solid installment that builds on its predecessors, with improvements in gameplay and modes, despite some minor technical issues.

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IGN

PlayStation 5

Mar 20, 2025

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

MLB The Show 25 offers solid gameplay improvements and engaging modes, but some areas, particularly the Negro League storyline, feel stagnant, making it a worthwhile but imperfect upgrade.

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Atomix

PlayStation 5

Mar 24, 2025

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

MLB The Show 25 is a standout title that celebrates two decades of the franchise with significant improvements and innovations, making it a must-play for baseball fans despite its high price point.

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Game Informer

PlayStation 5

Apr 2, 2025

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

MLB The Show 25 is a well-rounded sports game that maintains high standards with engaging gameplay and various modes, making it a strong title in the sports gaming landscape.

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