MLB The Show 16

 PlayStation 4
User Score
7.3

Mixed or average reviews- based on 188 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 139 out of 188
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 188
  3. Negative: 41 out of 188
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  1. alanj28
    Apr 24, 2016
    10
    The game is a big step up from last years release. There are two new modes for Diamond Dynasty users. One is called conquest and allows users to play against the CPU to earn some of the best legends available in this year's release for their Diamond Dynasty Team. The developers weren't stingy with rewards either. Playing this mode allows users that prefer offline gameplay to earn someThe game is a big step up from last years release. There are two new modes for Diamond Dynasty users. One is called conquest and allows users to play against the CPU to earn some of the best legends available in this year's release for their Diamond Dynasty Team. The developers weren't stingy with rewards either. Playing this mode allows users that prefer offline gameplay to earn some of the best legends in the game (among them Ichiro Suzuki and Tony Gwynn). The animations are smoother and more realistic than last year. There are animations and gameplay situations that could use smoother transitions to create more realistic gameplay but these do not detract at all from the single player experience at all. Some of the still rigid and slow transitions in infield fielding and throws to the cutoff man are exploited in by some users in online gameplay. One of the unique features that sets MLB The Show apart from other sports games is Sounds of the Show. Sounds of the Show allow users to set walkup music, home run music and chants for each player in the MLB for a more realistic gameplay experience. The game allows you to import 511 mp3s from a USB into the game's jukebox. This way when I play and feel like listening to music instead of the commentary, which is outstanding, I can listen to a shuffled playlist in game of an set of songs I choose.
    One of the unique features of MLB The Show's Diamond Dynasty mode (similar to FIFA's FUT and NBA 2K's MyTeam) is that purchased in-game currency can be used to buy packs AND players. This way if you dislike the gambling aspect of buying packs, you can purchase a calculable amount of "stubs" and purchase the team you want. All modes of the game are entertaining and have high re-playability. The fact that you don't feel like you're forced to gamble in the Diamond Dynasty mode makes it more enjoyable then other games with similar modes. If you're a sports fan and haven't tried MLB The Show then I highly recommend it. There are modes for franchise (many seasons of using a team), single season, Road to The Show (where you create a player to go from the minors to the major leagues). The franchise mode has an online capability which is awesome. You can use real rosters or you can fantasy draft teams with the game's 55 released to date legends. Finally, the graphic detail and the stadiums is stunning. Beautiful recreations of all MLB ballparks and some older parks along with fictional minor league parks give the game a high quality aesthetic experience.

    10/10    … Expand
  2. ramonerussell
    Apr 24, 2016
    10
    Great game. Big step up from MLB 15 in terms of animations and gameplay modes. The gameplay is smoother and the game includes new modes that should keep you busy until MLB 17.
  3. PDXKmac
    Mar 31, 2016
    10
    I've played a great deal of time between MLB The Show 14 and 15. I loved both of those games and this one is no different. I play it mostly for the Road to the Show mode and I've played about 3 months of games so far in my career. I REALLY like the additions they've made. The biggest turn off on the older games was when baserunning, it was WAY too hard to get back to the base in time. ThatI've played a great deal of time between MLB The Show 14 and 15. I loved both of those games and this one is no different. I play it mostly for the Road to the Show mode and I've played about 3 months of games so far in my career. I REALLY like the additions they've made. The biggest turn off on the older games was when baserunning, it was WAY too hard to get back to the base in time. That was fixed by putting the game into slow-mo as the pitcher begins his move. If you don't react quickly you will get picked off but you don't have to be expecting to even have a chance like the old games. The slow-mo/reaction concept was put into fielding situations as well which I really like. There is also a new throwing mechanic they built it which makes throwing much more than just pushing a button. I am VERY impressed with the game so far and I'm excited to see what else it has to offer.
    There are aspects about the game that may make it difficult to play if you don't know much about baseball. That goes for pretty much all sports games but I could actually see this game being easy to pick up for people new to baseball video games. It is also potentially VERY difficult if you are a veteran. I love this game, it is the very best baseball video game you can buy. MUST BUY    … Expand
  4. SquatchSlayer09
    Mar 30, 2016
    10
    This is an excellent game. There has been marginal/massive overhauls to multiple different game modes. If you are not into diamond dynasty, it will change your opinion of the game.
  5. jimmie488
    Mar 29, 2016
    9
    Last year I criticized Sony San Diego Studio for taking away striding, when hitting, but I got used to it, and eventually didn't miss it much. This year, they brought it back and it was like welcoming back an old friend. This year, I started with Road to the Show, because I almost played that exclusively, the past few years, except for a short run at Diamond Dynasty, last year. I wasLast year I criticized Sony San Diego Studio for taking away striding, when hitting, but I got used to it, and eventually didn't miss it much. This year, they brought it back and it was like welcoming back an old friend. This year, I started with Road to the Show, because I almost played that exclusively, the past few years, except for a short run at Diamond Dynasty, last year. I was disappointed to see manual catch was removed. This series used to be known for adding choices, but leaving what was already there, to personalize your experience. They've stopped doing that, now, and it's unfortunate the choice to use manual catch is no longer an option. Despite this small complaint, everything else just feels... right. From hitting to pitching to fielding... and i've primarily played Play Now games to build up Dynamic Difficulty. The new animations and the added commentary are much-welcomed additions. I'm sure Conquest Mode and Battle Royale will have me returning Diamond Dynasty, and the small hiccup of not having our rewards for preorders was taken care of with a post at facebook that directed customers what to do, if you hadn't received your entitlements. I've supported this franchise since its inception, and this year's version is the best yet, In other words... it's quite a catch, just not a manual one. It's automatic, this year. :)… Expand
  6. 325_hawks
    Mar 31, 2016
    8
    This was my first experience with the show since 2012 and the game feels and plays great compared to the games of a few years back. I enjoy being able to speed through games at an arcade pace if I need to and play an authentic baseball experience if i have the time. There's a bunch of new game modes for me to explore that will keep me busy all season.
  7. Hill87
    Apr 6, 2016
    9
    The guys at San Diego Studios have continued to make a great product with this year's installment. While lingering issues like long menu load times and some frame rate like to say hi, the gameplay is more dynamic than ever. They've added new modes and features that only make me want to keep playing day in and day out. Conquest mode and Battle Royale add to the already addictive DiamondThe guys at San Diego Studios have continued to make a great product with this year's installment. While lingering issues like long menu load times and some frame rate like to say hi, the gameplay is more dynamic than ever. They've added new modes and features that only make me want to keep playing day in and day out. Conquest mode and Battle Royale add to the already addictive Diamond Dynasty.

    I strongly recommend it whether you're a seasoned fantasy baseball guy or a casual fan of the sport!    … Expand
  8. wkfoster
    Mar 29, 2016
    10
    MLB The Show 16 has made minor changes that have made Road to the Show much more enjoyable. The frustration of playing one game and then having to wait 10 minutes (exaggerated) to go back to the menu to select the next game is gone. They have made it so that you can play multiple games without navigating away from the game screen. On top of that they allow you to use your training pointsMLB The Show 16 has made minor changes that have made Road to the Show much more enjoyable. The frustration of playing one game and then having to wait 10 minutes (exaggerated) to go back to the menu to select the next game is gone. They have made it so that you can play multiple games without navigating away from the game screen. On top of that they allow you to use your training points without navigating back to the menu also. I'm still struggling to figure out how to take advantage of the slow motion, but I'm sure that will come with practice. I have not played Battle Royale or Conquest, but I look forward to trying those out as well. While the play style is very similar to last year that doesn't bother me. Also I am not about to get nearly as butthurt about wrong audio calls and I haven't seen substantial bug yet so I'm not go to go off like you-know-who. Hope you enjoy reading this massive paragraph.… Expand
  9. cody1
    Mar 30, 2016
    8
    As with every new edition of The Show, the stadium and presentation upgrades make the game worth buying for any baseball fan out there. The return of stride hitting bumps this rating up to an 8 for me. The load times are quite long and the face models are so bad that it takes away from what is otherwise a very beautiful and fluid game.

    If you can overlook the poor face models, this game    As with every new edition of The Show, the stadium and presentation upgrades make the game worth buying for any baseball fan out there. The return of stride hitting bumps this rating up to an 8 for me. The load times are quite long and the face models are so bad that it takes away from what is otherwise a very beautiful and fluid game.

    If you can overlook the poor face models, this game is still quite enjoyable as the feel of the gameplay and hitting (especially stride hitting) feels very fluid and is a definite upgrade from the '14 edition. The game modes are also still so in depth that the game is still worth buying for any new or experience Show player.    … Expand
  10. homer4president
    Apr 4, 2016
    9
    I took 3 years off The Show and I must say, it's good to be back. Stadiums look authentic, graphics are crisp, and gameplay is smooth. Starting my 162-game franchise today, wish me luck.
  11. sityoazzdown
    Apr 3, 2016
    9
    This is probably the most complete package version of the show since it's inception, period. The graphics are improved even more with the physics based rendering, the dynamic whether ( shadows creep in if you're playing a afternoon game), the super realistic plus over 100 new fielding animations makes the gameplay feel more authentic than ever before. The few added additions to franchiseThis is probably the most complete package version of the show since it's inception, period. The graphics are improved even more with the physics based rendering, the dynamic whether ( shadows creep in if you're playing a afternoon game), the super realistic plus over 100 new fielding animations makes the gameplay feel more authentic than ever before. The few added additions to franchise mode and rtts makes it even more addictive and enjoyable than ever before. And the new mode battle royale is like a dream come true for me ( I always wanted a fantasy draft team to play online against others). But what impressed me the most was the online, this online still stutters ever so often but the parity between offline and online has been the best this series has ever has. Not a perfect game, but this one is a no brainer for baseball fans/ people who enjoy this series.… Expand
  12. jlgervais
    Mar 30, 2016
    9
    5 Years since i bought a baseball game, this is a great game, you need about 2-3 innings to get a hold of the controls, it's easy and fun to play. graphics are awesome
  13. SotehPRx
    Mar 29, 2016
    10
    I've own every single MLB XX: The Show, and TBH, I was adamant about picking this game up since I felt that previous versions played the same year over year, but man was I wrong. The game is not perfect but it feels so good on PS4, the camera angles, the way the ball travels off the bat and the fluid animations just make your jaw drop. I'm a little concerned with a few players whichI've own every single MLB XX: The Show, and TBH, I was adamant about picking this game up since I felt that previous versions played the same year over year, but man was I wrong. The game is not perfect but it feels so good on PS4, the camera angles, the way the ball travels off the bat and the fluid animations just make your jaw drop. I'm a little concerned with a few players which faces look a little odd, but the lighting and gameplay just blows away last years version. Love the addition of custom music and certain arcadey features that make the game less repetitive. Conquest for me is a plus and no there is no import your face, create a stadium or relocation which is sad and are highly requested features but I guess we'll have to wait a bit for that. The commentary has been vastly improved but still needs a little more work. All in all MLB 16: The Show is a masterpiece (considering the type of game it is), there is a lot of content to keep everyone busy for a long time. 9.5/10 The lack of hair options (i.e. using actual players hair styles), inability to put your face in the game, some actual players odd looking faces, a somewhat repetitive commentary, lack of creating a stadium and relocating option keeps this game from being a 10, other than that this game is almost flawless.… Expand
  14. jdd0713
    Apr 1, 2016
    9
    Mlb the show 16 does it again with amazing baseball sim gameplay. The new additions in Diamond Dynasty are awesome from all the new flash back cards to battle royale! Gameplay is very smooth and even the online gameplay has become a ton less laggy. I just wish they improve conquest mode a little bit. Road to the show is as good as ever, I just can't put this game down.
  15. son-of-serpico
    Mar 30, 2016
    10
    I can't think of a single bad thing to say about The Show 16. If you love baseball, this is a no-brainer. No other baseball game is in the same league as this title. This year's game is a significant improvement over last year's mediocre release. The game is certainly in the big leagues and I would venture to say it rivals NBA2K as the best sports simulation in existence. EA can learn aI can't think of a single bad thing to say about The Show 16. If you love baseball, this is a no-brainer. No other baseball game is in the same league as this title. This year's game is a significant improvement over last year's mediocre release. The game is certainly in the big leagues and I would venture to say it rivals NBA2K as the best sports simulation in existence. EA can learn a lot here about how to make a proper sports title.… Expand
  16. killerB
    Apr 20, 2016
    10
    Another great entry in the series. After a few patches, this may be the best The Show yet. I am not sure where the other reviewers that state that this is the "same as last year" or "PS3" graphics are coming up with it. A simple look at the game play videos and the fact sheet reveals that these statements are simply false.
  17. IENViEDI
    Apr 7, 2016
    10
    The Show and NBA 2K franchises are the BEST sports games year in and year out. Both consistently improve upon the previous iteration with each new release. With updates to roster, graphics, lighting, character models, gameplay elements, etc., this is the best baseball game available. It's a must buy if you are a fan of baseball.
  18. Kanazawa
    Mar 29, 2016
    10
    The additions this year were more subtle to the average player, but really were instrumental for me actually buying this year's addition. Namely, the re implementation of your own music into every aspect of the game. There really isn't anything more satisfying than hitting a monster home run with your favorite song playing throughout the stadium. This was the biggest loss fromThe additions this year were more subtle to the average player, but really were instrumental for me actually buying this year's addition. Namely, the re implementation of your own music into every aspect of the game. There really isn't anything more satisfying than hitting a monster home run with your favorite song playing throughout the stadium. This was the biggest loss from transitioning from the ps3 to the ps4. And it took until this addition, finally, to be reintroduced. The second is the advanced statistics. There is absolutely nothing better than seeing WAR in the game. It warms my heart so to see my previous year's terrible -0.64 WAR along with a terrible BB% and K%. Really brings the reality of baseball to the game. Finally there is a reason to work for that walk to raise that OBP. Finally there is a stat that shows that no, it's your team's terrible defense not your pitching. The other new mode is quite fun but isn't nearly as significant as those two. Sure the release was rocky, but no game deserves to be rated based on its release alone.… Expand
  19. porhawj
    Mar 29, 2016
    9
    this game is very good.. player model look good but face model look weird. Graphic is great especially stadium, Lighting look awesome. gameplay is great. it feel so smooth. hitting balls is so good.. MLB 17 really need improve player realistic face expression and likeness
  20. Ps4isawesome
    Mar 29, 2016
    10
    A brief review of my impressions for this game is that I love it. It's a really great baseball simulator game that is so good I though I have to play the others. The gameplay is excellent and the graphics are also good. 10/10
  21. ps4lover
    Mar 29, 2016
    10
    this game is amazing ever i playing.. visual is goregous, player model look great.. stadium look goregous, gameplay are excellent. Commentary and radio are great. keep up good work San diego studio with SCEA
  22. LukyNumber7
    Apr 24, 2016
    10
    Excellent game from SDS. Definitely worth the purchase. In spite of what other reviewers have written the servers are working fine after some minor problems at release (which SDS comped players with free stubs and packs). I was very happy to upgrade from MLB 15 to 16. Lots of new features and animations. Plus Sounds of the Show is on PS4 so you can create playlists of your own mp3s in game!
  23. harisongross
    Jul 8, 2016
    8
    MLB The Show is an amazing franchise. They took my days of playing 2K on Xbox and redefined what a baseball game could be. The gameplay is awesome and can't be overstated. That said, this installment, unfortunately, has brought me somewhat back to reality. The buggy-ness and lack of attention to details was really disappointing. The removal of statistics in some of the modes too, or addedMLB The Show is an amazing franchise. They took my days of playing 2K on Xbox and redefined what a baseball game could be. The gameplay is awesome and can't be overstated. That said, this installment, unfortunately, has brought me somewhat back to reality. The buggy-ness and lack of attention to details was really disappointing. The removal of statistics in some of the modes too, or added difficulty in finding them , seemed very weird. Load times inside of the game and in some modes are ridiculous too. The most frustrating thing about all of it was that these things are rookie mistakes, things that games who don't have the money and power to support them would have, not a proven, great quality studio.… Expand
  24. dwayner
    Sep 16, 2016
    10
    love this game! its fun to play in all sorts of modes, and its fun to simulate, its even fun to just lay down and watch a game in bed... I wish though they would add every teams old stadiums as well, would be cool to play at torontos exhibition stadium, or a place like candle stick stadium..
  25. Adubis27
    Mar 20, 2018
    8
    8.6/10, we're nearing the release of MLB the Show 18 but I have to talk about the great MLB the Show 16, this game was great throughout its entire lifespan.
  26. juniortiger
    Apr 7, 2023
    10
    I love feeling you in game haptic feedback control and graphic amazing and I recommend pick one up in store

Awards & Rankings

25
#25 Best PS4 Game of 2016
82
#82 Most Discussed PS4 Game of 2016
65
#65 Most Shared PS4 Game of 2016

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
85

Generally favorable reviews - based on 37 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 35 out of 37
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 37
  3. Negative: 0 out of 37
  1. Gaming Nexus
    Jun 15, 2016
    88
    Another year and another good outing for SCE San Diego Studio. MLB The Show 16 has some great improvements for Road to the Show, but some problems still persist. Baseball lovers will definitely enjoy the game.
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  2. Playstation Official Magazine UK
    Jun 13, 2016
    90
    You need to know the sport to master it - hence no 10/10 this year - but PS3's greatest sports series is on the verge of once more dominating all contemporaries. [June 2016, p.94]
  3. Multiplayer.it
    Apr 28, 2016
    90
    Sony San Diego continues to raise the bar with MLB 16: The Show, finding an almost perfect balance between innovation and tradition.
    Read full review
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