Major League Baseball 2K8

Game review by Brett Molina, Common Sense Media
Major League Baseball 2K8 Poster Image

Common Sense says

age 8+

Innovative baseball title with choppy action.

PSP, Nintendo Wii, PlayStation 2 2008
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Parents say

age 5+

Based on 2 reviews

Kids say

age 8+

Based on 2 reviews

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A Lot or a Little?

The parents' guide to what's in this game.

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that this is a straightforward simulation of Major League Baseball. None of the baseball controversies dominating recent headlines are present. The game is playable online, so kids playing online could hear language that might not be appropriate. Common Sense Media recommends that children under the age of 12 not play online without supervision.

Community Reviews

Tommy from NY
Tommy from NY Adult
October 9, 2010
age 5+

Bad Game!

This game is great for all ages, if you like a bore. The player vs system game is impossible, it is hard to control your pitches, and it is very difficult to win, even on the easiest difficulty. The only good part of the game is 2 player, but still, all games are a slugfest due to impossible pitching.
homer2
homer2 Adult
April 9, 2008
not rated for age

a very fun game.

this game is a very fun baseball simulation.
See all 2 parent reviews

What’s It About?

Spring means the start of the baseball season, both real and virtual. MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL 2K8 is the latest iteration of 2K Sports simulation devoted to the national pastime. While filled with innovative elements, choppy animation becomes too large a distraction.

The biggest -- and most welcome -- overhaul is in pitching. Instead of buttons, players utilize the right analog stick. Pitching is a two-step process. You execute one action during the wind-up, then a second move during delivery. It's far more challenging, yet more gratifying once you've mastered your arsenal of pitches. Hitting remains the same. Pull down to step in and push up to swing. The right analog is mapped to the baseball diamond for throws. A quick flick of the stick to the proper base executes your toss. Base-running is similar. Use the right analog to pick a player, then select one of the four face buttons matching the diamond.

Is It Any Good?

Expect many of the standard baseball modes, from franchise to home run derby. If you prefer to avoid the major leagues, you have the choice of 90 minor-league teams at your disposal. Atmosphere is captured effectively through vibrant stadiums and impressively-detailed players. The game's greatest weakness is the lack of smooth action. Plays consistently look choppy. Even a simple throw from the second baseman to first stutters along clumsily. As great as the innovations in MLB 2K8 are, they're difficult to enjoy with such sloppy on-field action.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how the new game mechanics affect this year's title. Do these make the game too complicated? Is it better to simplify the controls to incorporate less experienced players?

Game Details

Our Editors Recommend

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