Pitching stands out as an improvement over last year's game. This added layer, compounded with tons of new stats comparing batter and pitcher matchups, and a more complete pitch analysis system, really showcases pitching as MLB 2K12's better system. This new audio complements a smarter pitching system, as the conversation surrounding what the pitcher's throwing provides astute and interesting observations about what's working and what's not. They were splendid last year, but this year's game has hundreds of new lines related to pitching alone.

The announcers are the single best element of MLB 2K12. The My Player skill sheets (and creation tools), franchise mode layout, and general lead-in to every game makes one ask, 'did I buy last year's game by mistake?' There are a few subtle tweaks to the gameplay experience, like a change in color to the strike zone just before the pitcher lets the ball fly (especially useful in multiplayer), and the new color system for pitching, but overall MLB 2K12 looks like MLB 2K11 hooked up with an HDMI cable rather than a component connection (subtly different, but better and crisper). While the gameplay engine looks better, the interface throughout the menus feels exactly like last year's outing. There's still some pixilation on smaller details, but the grass, bases, and teams stand strong. The animations are lifelike, and despite a few camera quirks, the overall stadium experience is a good one. The graphical changes don't reflect an overhaul, but rather a journey towards creating the best representation of America's pastime. Graphically, the MLB 2K12 experience utilizes higher contrasts, making sunny days brighter and really showcasing the grizzle of your favorite unshaven athlete.

The framework first built by 2K10 remains under the hood of 2K12, though the new title does make progress. Certain elements of the evolving formula from 2K10 and 2K11 find great success this year, but overall 2012 marks a standard year for a good game of baseball. MLB 2K12 represents a year in baseball that's about minor polish rather than major innovation.

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