MLB 14: The Show finally launched on PlayStation 4, completing the trifecta of consoles the beautiful baseball sim will be appearing on. This makes it the perfect time to write up some tips for all of the players out there trying to understand the game, which is admittedly a bit complicated.
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Investing deeply in a career or management mode in sports titles can be very rewarding, even with the massive time investment they usually take. They're all different, though, and have their own nuances you must learn in order to succeed.
Road to the Show is the exciting career mode in MLB 14: The Show, and you can get a lot out of it if you know how to work the system.
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Fortunately, Prima has some useful tips for learning how to make your pro and team the best they can be, and offers some useful suggestions. They explain the basic system:
"The first and most important thing is to keep tabs on your progress. There are charts within the game that will compare you to other players, so you can see where you need to make improvements should the situation call for it.
"You can also apply training points and take part in mini-games to improve your statistics, but you'll need to complete them properly in order to make a difference. In addition, as you earn points, make sure you apply them in the categories where they matter the most. While areas like base-running ability and drag bunting may seem tempting to boost, they don't apply much when it comes to general play.
"Focus on hitting, pitching or catching attributes, depending on what kind of player you select, and stick with the vital areas that will best improve their performance. You won't have to worry about other things until later on in your career, or even at all. Stick with what works in the long run."
The points you spend will be essential im making your player better, so choose wisely. There's more to Road to the Show than that, however, and much of it involves other decisions you will make.
"Drafts will occur in the Road to the Show mode, where scouts will come out and watch you play. It's during this three-game series where you'll want to make a difference. On top of that, you'll also be able to look over teams and decide which one is best suited for you, and then see if you can apply for it.
"You won't always get your team of choice when you first apply - it really depends on their needs and what they're looking for to complete their squad. You shouldn't get discouraged, though. Your career will provide the opportunity to improve your skills and watch as other teams take notice - including the one you originally applied for.
"Keep at it. Continue to practice regularly and put in healthy, solid performances during games. As your career picks up, so will your options - and then you'll be on your way to superstardom."
The career mode in every baseball sim is different, but if you can understand the Road to the Show, you should be set--there are no other baseball titles on the market this year!