Modality

In addition to the main game mode, MVP Baseball 2003 also features franchise, season, tournament, and "Home Run Showdown" modes. Home Run Showdown is a new take on the classic "Home Run Derby" game. In the showdown two players go head-to-head in a split-screen match to see who can reach a distance target in the least amount of time. The distance of each hit ball is added to the total, fouls are subtracted, home runs get a 100-foot bonus, and strikes get a 100-foot penalty. It may be a simple mini-game, but it is a great way to kill some free time without sitting down for a full game.

Tournament mode allows you to quickly setup a simple tournament. This is a great choice for simulating the playoffs, settling a grudge match with a friend, or simply simulating a fantasy match. Honestly, though, most players will probably find themselves in either season or franchise mode.

Season mode is exactly what the name implies. You choose a team and then play through a full 162 game season in an attempt to reach the playoffs, and eventually the World Series. Options for shorter seasons are available; however, there really is no point. You can simulate any games you do not want to play -- might as well keep it real.

Adding to the depth of season mode are some basic management options, including player trades, roster management, and scouting reports. If you cannot find a player to your liking, or if you just want to be in the game yourself, a comprehensive create-a-player interface allows you to fulfill your desires.

The man who set a record for getting walked last season.
For those players that prefer a more detailed management interface there is franchise mode. While it is not quite as detailed as the franchise mode found within Sega's World Series Baseball 2K3, what's here is still plenty to keep the micromanagers happy. In addition to everything covered by season mode, franchise mode also drops the responsibility for the team budget and morale into your lap. Win constantly and your team "momentum meter" will increase, causing your men to play better. Lose and the momentum will drop, along with a corresponding drop in motivation.

Additionally, franchise mode also covers a greater span of time than season mode. Whereas season mode is simply a single season, franchise mode covers multiple seasons. In order to excel in franchise mode you are given a number of goals to accomplish in a certain amount of time. Meet those goals and you will be deemed a good manager and rewarded with budget increases.

Rounding out the game is a nicely done tutorial mode which walks players through all of the game's controls as well as providing pointers to new players. It is by no means a necessity -- advanced players can easily ignore it -- but it is a welcome addition.

Ninth Inning

It's a close call at the plate.
While there are those that are sad to see the Triple Play name go by the wayside, a fresh start is exactly what this franchise needed. As a freshman product MVP Baseball 2003 is quite impressive, and a great start for a new series. Gameplay wise, the PS2 and Xbox versions are nearly identical, however, the Xbox does have a graphical edge over the PS2 version.

As usual, the great EA Sports vs. Sega Sports competition is definitely going strong with MVP Baseball 2003 and World Series Baseball 2K3 both having strong showings. In the end though, MVP Baseball 2003 has the gameplay edge. That being said, those looking for the management side of things will likely prefer Sega's offering. World Series Baseball 2K3 has a more detailed franchise mode that is sure to satisfy the statistic fans out there. Of course, those of you uninterested in the bitter rivalry between these two behemoths may be pleased to check out 3DO's excellent High Heat 2004 for the utmost in realistic gameplay.

If you're looking to play the game, stick with MVP Baseball 2003. If you want to manage a team, go with World Series Baseball 2K3. Either way, you won't be disappointed.