MLB: The Show 22is the latest upcoming version of theMLB: The Showfranchise. Well known as the premier baseball sim, the series is known for its realistic gameplay and high-end graphics, something Nintendo consoles consistently lack among its competitors. However, to many people’s surprise,MLB: The Show 22is headed to Nintendo Switch.
The PlayStation-owned franchise’s previous iteration,MLB The Show 21, made waves when it was revealed it was simultaneously being released on its direct competitor’s console, Xbox. This year not only continues its Xbox availability, but makesMLB: The Show 22a day one Xbox Game Pass title.
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Premiering as part of Nintendo’s February Nintendo Direct, the trailer starts off with cover athlete and two-way baseball superstar Shohei Ohtani onscreen. Introducing himself as “hitter” Shohei Ohtani, he’s soon joined by “pitcher” Shohei Ohtani, informing the viewer ofMLB: The Show 22coming to Switch. The next portion of the trailer reveals some impressive-looking gameplay showcasing the Los Angeles Angel, especially considering the portable console’s lesser graphical capability. The Switch version baseball sim appears to have all the features of its PlayStation and Xbox counterparts, including Road to the Show and Diamond Dynasty, and will feature cross-platform play.
The majority of fan reception toMLB: The Show 22coming to Switch has been positive. However, some fans have been quick to point out the significant differences in graphical fidelity, particularly with the game’s framerate compared to the version on the two more powerful consoles. Sony released aseparateMLB: The Show 22trailer for PS5 and Xbox Series X/S, which shows off much smoother and more detailed footage. While the Switch version of the game currently doesn’t look as polished, managing to get the photorealistic title on the hardware-limited console is nothing short of impressive.
The Switch reveal ofMLB: The Show 22wasn’t the only surprising sports title unveiled at the latest Nintendo Direct. After a 15-year hiatus, the fan-favoriteMario Strikersseries isreturning withMario Strikers: Battle League.Releasing on June 10, the upcoming title features ample multiplayer support in different facets. For example, up to eight players can play at the same time on one console, as well as online matches and a ranked online club system, capable of featuring up to 20 players in a single club. What Nintendo lacks in graphics it tends to make up for in multiplayer accessibility.
MLB: The Showis known for having various editions, andMLB: The Show 22is no different. Beyond the Standard Edition, the game is available in a Digital Deluxe as well as aMVP Edition, which features anime-inspired cover artdrawn by renowned manga and anime artist Takashi Okazaki, ofAfro SamuraiandBatman Ninjafame.
MLB: The Show 22releases on April 5 for PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S.
