Those eager to tap their thumbs to MLB the Show 16 on March 29 should know that they're going to experience a smarter — not to mention, better-animated — baseball video game than previous titles in the series.
As part of its announcement on Twitch on Thursday, MLB the Show 16 announced improvements to the game's animated gameplay in addition to logic-based updates — both meant to give the title more authenticity to the actual diamond moving forward.
The updates to the game's logic system include everything from players out of position (OOP) not being able to use the same animations as the average MLB player in that position to bolstered logic, supporting animations for sequences involving cut-offs and relays.
An update to the bunt logic aims to create distinctions between the worst and best bunters, while MLB the Show 16's precision input gameplay engine has been sharpened to zero in on determinism, prioritizing gamers' skills.
There's also a feature dealing with foot-planting of players, hoping to resolve transition issues in the highly-anticipated game.
As for the overall enhanced animation, MLB the Show 16 made a conscious effort to focus on the details, equipping them with as big of a punch and feel as some of the main aspects of the title's gameplay.
New gameplay animations include everything from pitcher reactions and catches to home run sequences and outfield post-game rituals.
They also get complex, considering this year's title has added 400 new dives, double-play turns and foul-ball catches, in addition to 290 new, or recaptured, batting stances and 50 "no-doubt" home run swings.
Think Jose Bautista's infamous bat flip after his mammoth home run in last year's playoffs as fitting of that latter category.
The game didn't leave out the pitchers, either, improving their animation with 240 new, or recaptured, pitching windups or stretches.
Chomping at the bit to play ball yet? MLB the Show 16's release is just over a month and a half away.
