| ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. | |
| PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. | |
| OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. | |
| NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Parents need to know that this is an arcade version of professional baseball involving a simpler style of play. The action is more outlandish compared to other baseball simulations, and at times, also more aggressive. For example, baserunners can slam into catchers to jar the ball loose and score a run. Players can also compete online, a feature Common Sense Media does not recommend to anyone under the age of 12.
THE BIGS 2 is an arcade-style variation of Major League Baseball. Unlike baseball simulations, this game boasts a simpler, more outrageous style of baseball complete with big homeruns and spectacular defensive plays. Players can choose between one of the MLB teams and guide them through an entire season, or create their own player and set him on a course toward the Hall of Fame by completing a series of challenges. The game also includes a series of minigames, including Home Run Pinball.
The Bigs 2 makes smart enhancements from its predecessor, extending the game's longevity and creating a more satisfying experience. Action is much simpler, highlighting the most exciting and explosive aspects of the sport. Visually, the caricatures of these players look sharp, as does each stadium. Controls are pretty simple to learn. The greatest challenge involves timing pitches and swings of the bat. The new modes extend the long-term playability of the game, with full-season mode as well as additional venues for the challenge Home-Run Pinball.
The one frustrating element are the quick-time events, or challenges that require a player to quickly press a button when prompted. These take shape in the form of Legendary Catches on the field. Often times, these events happen far too fast compared to other games with the same mechanic. Despite this, there are still plenty of reasons to head to The Bigs 2's ballpark.
Online interaction: Players can chat with others during online games so that interaction can be unpredictable. They may hear language you would rather they not hear.
How does an arcade-style sports game compare to a more authentic simulation? What makes each good or bad?
Can the game maintain a more over-the-top game experience without the aggressive play and still be fun?
| Platforms: | Nintendo Wii, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 2, PSP |
| Available online? | Available online |
| Genre: | Sports |
| Developer: | 2K Sports |
| Release date: | July 7, 2009 |
| Price: | $59.99 |
| ESRB rating: | E10+ for Mild Language, Mild Violence |
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