Developer: Metalhead Software
Publisher: EA
Release Date: 2nd June 2023
Platforms: PlayStation, Xbox, Switch & PC
Reviewed on: PlayStation 5
▫️ code provided by the publisher ▫️
This is far from Metalhead Software’s first rodeo. In fact, they have been working on this franchise for nearly a decade now. Given this, you won’t be surprised to hear that Super Mega Baseball 4 is more of an iteration of the previous title instead of a complete overhaul. While this could be considered the safe option, I would argue that sometimes you shouldn’t mess with a winning formula.
This is the first entry since the team joined the EA family and the fruits of this are evident in the extra polish this time around. We are also treated to some all-star names such as Babe Ruth and Willie Mays who are playable alongside more in various legends teams (check).
The beauty of Super Mega Baseball 4 is that it manages to appeal to both baseball hardcores and also casual sports fans. I have always appreciated MLB The Show from afar, but the simulation gameplay just doesn’t hold my attention. The SMB series on the other hand offers condensed matches and arcade gameplay that never fails to delight.
The epitome of this for me is that pitching is actually more fun than batting. When your mechanics are so strong that chucking a ball is more satisfying than hitting it, you are on to a winner. Batting largely comes down to getting your timing right, while pitching is a little more intricate. You have the option of multiple throw types, with each requiring you to guide a small on-screen ball into a square outline. The closer to the outskirts you can get it, the more success you are likely to have.
One of the most instantly recognisable things about Super Mega Baseball 4 is the art style. The caricature player models are more detailed and expressive than ever. The design choice may not be for everyone, but I really feel like it suits the faster-paced arcade gameplay to a tee. The colour palette really lets the game pop when playing on a high-end TV as well and I experienced no frame rate issues throughout my 25+ hours with the game so far.
Franchise mode remains my favourite area of the game, allowing you to develop your players and run through cool (and often hilarious) manager moments that dictate player loyalty. You will play through multiple seasons with one of the fictitious teams in the game or one you create. While not reinventing the wheel, it gives you a sense of purpose and progression between exhilarating matches that will have you coming back again and again. Franchise can also be played in two-player online, or local co-op.
Other modes are available should you wish to spread your wings, such as Online Leagues, Single Season, Elimination Tournaments, Shuffle Draft and Pennant Race. Shuffle Draft is new to the mix and basically acts as a fantasy draft, letting you pick from the entire roster. Whether you prefer to play online, or against the AI, there will be plenty to keep you busy here.
The ingenious ego system returns, allowing players to tailor the difficulty to their exact specifications. Starting at 10, which is classified as novice, the range goes from 0-99 meaning you can scale the difficulty as you improve. This allows the game to remain challenging while also feeling accessible.
If you are the type of gamer that likes a challenging trophy/achievement list, then Super Mega Baseball 4 has you covered. A lot of the digital trinkets involve pulling off certain plays, to varying levels of complexity. However, two in particular will really keep you up at night. ‘SMB4 Champ’ and ‘#Ego99Challenge’ both require you to complete matches on ego difficulty of at least 90, which will strike out all but the most skilled players.
Value: £54.99 could definitely be considered a high barrier to entry, but when you factor in the various modes and the crazy amount of customisation, you will absolutely get your money’s worth.
Overall, Super Mega Baseball 4 is a highly addictive, arcade sports game that removes the fat and delivers a truly fun experience that is as customisable as it gets. The EA Sports BIG banner may be gone, but under its new publisher, Metalhead Software is doing a fantastic job of carrying the legacy it left behind.
-Mark
