MLB 2006

Did You Know?

• The game received 'favorable' reviews on both platforms according to Metacritic.
• GamePro said the PlayStation 2 version 'follows up last year's comeback player of the year with control tweaks and makes its formidable Franchise mode even better.'
• Some websites gave the PlayStation 2 version favorable reviews while it was still in development.

Gameplay

MLB 2006 puts all 30 MLB teams, their real stadiums, and nearly 1,200 actual players into a baseball simulation. Offline, you can jump into exhibition, season, career, franchise, or home run derby modes; online, there are tournaments and roster updates. Custom athletes are possible, and you can even scan your face with an EyeToy camera. Season mode covers lineups, trades, and drafts through the All-Star Game and playoffs. Career mode follows one player from the minors up, with promotions and contracts tied to performance. Franchise mode adds scouting, staff, stadium upgrades, marketing, and budgets. Pitching uses a release-point meter, batting depends on timing with optional guess pitch and location, and fielding includes dives and throws to specific bases. Confidence and attributes affect play, and the CPU learns your habits. You can play full games, simulate inning by inning, or manage through a board-game-like SportsCast. Matt Vasgersian and Dave Campbell provide commentary, with realistic crowd noise. Difficulty and tuning sliders let you adjust the experience.