Longer-form mode Road to the Show's focus is on the solo player too, a rookie beginning in the minors and working up to the majors. PS5 advancements boost facial expressions, and while imperfect, they capture the frustration on a pitcher’s face after giving up a hit or a coach screaming over a botched strike call from the dugout. For instance, added fielding animations bring a weightier feel when chasing liners or pop-ups. There's a powerful caveat though: where it matters – out on the field – MLB The Show 21 is still a notable, impressive simulation, up there with the sporting elite. That’s a lot of skirting reality for a series applauded for authenticity. Nothing in The Show 21 does, and every stadium is stuffed with fans, akin to the controversial Texas Rangers’ opening day sellout with 40,000+ people in attendance. Other pro sports games failed there too, like NBA 2K21’s inability to reconcile the league’s prominent statements against police violence, but its commentary at least mentions COVID and the unusual season. During that time fan attendance at sports events has been either limited or banned completely, yet MLB The Show 21 doesn’t contend with this new normal. It's not only the push for equality which has made for a 12-month period like no other. Platform: PS5 / PS4 / Xbox Series X / Xbox One

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