Gaming Target - Dreamcast: World Series Baseball 2K2

Written by Arthur Hughes on May 22, 2001

First Impressions: Sega finally might hit a homerun on the Dreamcast

So far on the Dreamcast baseball fans have been utterly disappointed. WSB2K1 was a serious let down to sports fans, however this year, sports fans are in luck, as Sega gave the reigns of WSB2K2 over to Visual Concepts the makers of Nfl2k1 and Nba2k1. With the way the game is looking Visual Concepts is up to their standards.

The first thing that you'll notice that is different about WSB2K2 is the complete fielding controls. If you recall, this was the major problem with last year's version. You are now able of picking the player closest to the ball and have the ability to throw to any base. Also, some small changes within the batting and pitching of players have been made, giving you more control in these areas

WSB2K2 will have five different modes of play: exhibition, season, playoffs, home run derby, and online. Yes I did say online giving that extra replay value that most sports games don't have. We have been told that the game chat and the interface will be similar to those of Nfl2k1 Nba2k1 and the season mode of the game will now have a fantasy draft option. You will also be able to control the usual create, trade, release, and signing of players as well. Naturally the game will have such options as team-specific playbooks, up-to-date MLB 2001 rosters, and fully licensed stadiums.

The game will be adding new affects such as: weather changing in the middle of the game, uniforms and field conditions will change as well. An enhanced camera system will also be incorporated, which should help the frame rate and show everybody the WSB2k1 overall visual masterpiece.

The one thing that last year's version did have was impressive graphics and this year's version has improved on the realistic parts of the game. Visual Concepts has added signature batting and pitching styles of the most notable players in the league and also included a lot of smaller details such as: sunglasses, shin guards, and elbow protectors.