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MLB The Show 25 – The Diamond Standard Evolved
San Diego Studio refines the franchise with ShowTech animations and the addictive Diamond Quest mode, though the annual leap feels smaller this year. 8.5/10.
Game Info
Verdict
MLB The Show 25 is the most refined baseball sim ever made, even if the lack of a graphical overhaul makes it feel like a transitional year.
Pros
- ShowTech animations improve fielding fluidity
- Diamond Quest is a fantastic new mode
- Removal of 'Sets' fixes power creep issues
- Storylines mode remains best-in-class history lesson
- Fair monetization compared to competitors
Cons
- Graphics engine is showing its age
- Commentary can still be repetitive
- Road to the Show lacks meaningful new innovation
Performance Notes
Runs flawlessly on PS5 and Series X at 60fps. Switch version is playable but suffers from low resolution and frame dips. No native PC version exists.
MLB The Show 25 arrives with the confidence of a reigning champion, building on its best-in-class gameplay with subtle but impactful additions. While it doesn’t reinvent the wheel, the introduction of ShowTech animations significantly reduces the friction between player input and on-screen action, creating the most fluid baseball simulation to date. The new Diamond Quest mode injects some much-needed variety into Diamond Dynasty, offering a roguelike board game experience that feels fresh. However, long-time fans might feel the visual leap is plateauing as the game continues to support older hardware.
How to Play MLB The Show 25
The core simulation is more precise than ever, rewarding patience and pitch recognition.
- Controls – Choose between Zone, Directional, or Timing hitting. Zone offers the highest skill ceiling but requires precise PCI placement.
- Progression – Earn XP in the main program to unlock cards. The removal of ‘Sets and Seasons’ simplifies the grind, letting you use cards year-round.
- Combat/Mechanics – Master the new Ambush Hitting mechanic, which rewards aggressive swings on first-pitch strikes.
- Tips – Use the new ‘Practice with Teams’ feature to master the release points of top pitchers before heading into Ranked.
Who Should Play MLB The Show 25
A must-play for baseball purists and strategy fans, though casuals might find the simulation depth daunting.
- Player 1 – Franchise Veterans who will appreciate the deeper scouting logic and prospect progression updates.
- Player 2 – Card Collectors who will lose hours to the new non-expiring card structure in Diamond Dynasty.
- Player 3 – RPG Fans who enjoy the narrative growth in ‘Road to the Show’, now with female ballplayer options.
- Skip if – You only play arcade sports games; this is a heavy simulation.
MLB The Show 25 Platform Performance
Current-gen consoles shine with 4K/60FPS, while the Switch version remains a portable marvel despite compromises.
| Platform | Resolution | FPS | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| PS5 | 4K Native | 60 | ShowTech animations are smoothest here |
| Xbox Series X | 4K Native | 60 | Supports Dolby Vision; identical to PS5 |
| Switch | 720p | 30 | Framerate dips in major stadiums; lacks some textures |
| PS4/Xbox One | 1080p | 30-60 | Load times are significantly longer |
MLB The Show 25 System Requirements
As a console exclusive, there is no native PC port. These are the storage requirements for installation.
| Component | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| OS | Console OS | Console OS |
| CPU | N/A | N/A |
| GPU | N/A | N/A |
| RAM | N/A | N/A |
| Storage | 85 GB | SSD Recommended |
Similar Games to MLB The Show 25
While MLB The Show stands alone in baseball, other sports titles offer similar depth.
- Super Mega Baseball 4 – Arcade aesthetics with surprisingly deep simulation mechanics; a lighter alternative.
- NBA 2K25 – Offers a comparable ‘MyCareer’ narrative depth but with more aggressive monetization.
- OOTP Baseball 25 – The ultimate text-based management sim for those who prefer spreadsheets to swinging.
- Pro Yakyuu Spirits – The Japanese counterpart offering incredible visuals for NPB fans.
MLB The Show 25 vs Competitors
It remains the most player-friendly sports game regarding monetization versus grind.
| Feature | MLB The Show 25 | NBA 2K25 | Madden NFL 25 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $69.99 | $69.99 | $69.99 |
| Playtime | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Multiplayer | Yes (Cross-Play) | Yes | Yes |
| Metacritic | 84 | 78 | 70 |
MLB The Show 25 Story & World
The ‘Storylines’ mode returns, focusing on historic eras. This year expands on the Negro Leagues Season 2 content and introduces a new focus on 1990s dominance. The presentation is documentary-style, offering educational and emotional weight to the gameplay moments, effectively serving as an interactive museum for the sport’s rich history.
MLB The Show 25 Multiplayer & Online
Online play is robust with full cross-platform support across all consoles.
- Diamond Dynasty – The premier team-building mode; play Ranked Seasons or Battle Royale.
- Co-Op Ranked – 2v2 or 3v3 competitive play with friends using combined rosters.
- Events – Weekly time-limited restrictions (e.g., ‘Lefties Only’) for quick rewards.
- Cross-Play – Full support between PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch.
MLB The Show 25 DLC & Expansions
Post-launch support is entirely free, funded by optional currency purchases.
- Monthly Awards – Free content drops based on real-world player performances.
- Featured Programs – Seasonal XP paths that unlock bosses and packs.
- Stubs – Virtual currency for the market (optional, earning is fair).
- Roster Updates – Weekly adjustments to player attributes based on MLB stats.
MLB The Show 25 Community & Support
San Diego Studio is highly active, with daily content updates and communication.
- TheShow.com Forums – The main hub for feedback and bug reporting.
- Reddit (/r/MLBTheShow) – Active community for market tips and investing advice.
- Companion App – Essential mobile app for managing the market on the go.
- Updates – Bi-weekly patches addressing gameplay balance and bugs.