WSB2K2... another hit for DC

World Series Baseball 2K2 is a perfect example why Sega has dropped their console efforts, and focused on making great games.

If you played World Series Baseball 2K1 you will be surprisingly pleased with WSB2K2 . Many problem areas have been fixed; such as fielding and controls.

Graphics 7/10

This is the best-looking baseball game I have seen. Graphics are smooth, clean and have low pixelation. The stadiums are wonderfully rendered, and the players and animation is superb and realistic. The graphics got its score lowered for the following reasons. First, the crowd in the stadium was probably the worst I have ever seen. I was expecting plain 'ole rubber-stamping, but it was worse. There was really, nothing there! Just blurry lines, and it was horrible! It also lost points for the "lankiness" of the players. Although well defined, there was still something unnatural about the players. They seemed "lanky" (can't find a better word to describe!). The player animations were good, but were repetitive. Which means, they used the same animation for every player. Batting stances were on target, but they could have mixed up the way they run... the way they trot back to the dugout, and fielded...

Sound 7/10

In game sound for sports games is a hard one to get right. Unfortunately, Sega doesn't hit the mark here either. When I play a sports game, turn up the sound and close my eyes; I want to feel like I am actually at the stadium. The NFL2K series pulls it off well. While, not horrible by any means, it just doesn't convince me that I'm at the ballpark with a hotdog and a beer.

One thing quite impressive about the game is the commentary though. The announcers are extremely well done, and convincing. Their play-by-play is done professionally, and realistically. I have yet to get bored or annoyed by them. Well done, Sega!

Gameplay 9/10

The gameplay of WSB2K2 is what makes a good game great. The control is basic and easy. Fielding is a breeze, yet still fun. Pitching and hitting are the same way. They have take aspects from other successful baseball games, and combined them into one easy to use system. This is all done, without losing the technique and overall fun of control.

Replay Value 10/10

Sega hits a homerun here! There are dozens of options and paths you can choose here. From a quick game, to a full long customized season. You can create fantasy leagues, players and teams. You can have homerun contests, VMU modifications and more. This game could honestly give a true baseball fan hundreds of hours of gaming.

Overall 9/10

This is a true quality release for DC. It is stable, clean and well developed. This game would be a total bargain for serious baseball fanatics. You might as well shelve all of your other games, and make a small shrine for WSB2K2 . Casual players, although you might not appreciate the greatness of the game, you will still enjoy a relaxing game or two here or there.