To put it simply, MVP Baseball is the "Madden" of baseball games.
User Rating: 9.3 | MVP Baseball 2004 XBOX
Since MVP Baseball is an EASports game, I can't help but compare it to the Madden series. And, while it doesn't quite reach that level of gameplay, it is the best baseball console game I've played. Overall, the options, features and game experience make it a worthwile purchase for any baseball fan. The graphics are well done, though not flawless. My biggest complaint there is the collision detection or lack thereof. When a runner slides and takes out the fielder at second base, he goes right through him before you see him flip unrealistically into the air. But overall, the grass, dirt, uniforms and staduims are extremely well done. Even the lighting is impressive making it feel like you're at the ballpark. As for gameplay, it's definately better than others but could use a little work. Fielding is very tough due to the fact that often you don't know what player your controlling until it's too late to make a play on the ball. There is also sometimes a terrible delay from the time the fielder gets the ball into his glove and the time he makes a throw. This makes double plays VERY difficult. Pitching is suburb and easy to learn but tough to master. That makes it a good challenge. Hitting is a little tougher to learn and also difficult to master. Especially when it comes to taking a walk. Not that you want to do it often, but it rarely happens in this game. My opinions on the sound is two-fold. With the stadium noise, the crowds and overall ambient sounds, the game is top-notch. Very well done and extremely realistic. However, the comentating isn't nearly as good. If have to hear him say "grab some pine, meat" one more time, I'm going to kick the thing. There really is a lack of interesting dialog between the two, and that limits my fondness for the sound. Overall, I think it's a great game. I consider it the "Madden" of baseball games. It's the best I've seen and a lot of fun to play. Worth it for any sports fan. 
