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For those of us who have been following MLB The Show for years, the 25th installment in the series is a solid one, but it falls just short of feeling like a true leap forward. Don’t get me wrong, MLB The Show 25 is the best iteration of the franchise by mlb stubsfar, but there are missed opportunities for a truly revolutionary experience.

One of the most notable improvements in MLB The Show 25 is the visual fidelity. The graphics are stunning. Player models, stadiums, and animations look incredibly lifelike. The lighting during different times of the day in the game is fantastic, and the atmosphere in each ballpark feels alive. If you're a fan of the sport, seeing your favorite players and teams in such detail is an absolute treat.

However, while the graphics are great, I feel like the game could’ve pushed the boundaries in other areas, such as AI or gameplay mechanics. The AI, especially in terms of the fielding and base-running, feels predictable at times. This has been an issue in previous games, and while it’s better in MLB The Show 25, it still doesn’t feel as intelligent or reactive as it could be. It’s a small issue, but it’s noticeable in key moments during the game, especially in tight situations.

Another area where the game excels is in its deep customization. The "Diamond Dynasty" mode is packed with content, and it’s clear the developers have invested a lot of time into giving players the ability to customize their team and build their dream lineup. Whether it’s through collecting player cards, creating unique team logos, or unlocking new stadiums, there’s a lot of fun to be had here. Yet, despite all of these options, the gameplay still doesn’t feel radically different from past entries, which is a little disappointing for a series that has had such a successful run.

The improvements to the “Franchise” mode are welcome but not groundbreaking. New features, such as more in-depth minor league management and better player development, help enhance the realism, but I was hoping for more of a revolutionary approach to team building. I want a franchise mode that really feels like I’m shaping the future of a team, with deeper choices and consequences.

Ultimately, MLB The Show 25 is a fantastic game that improves on everything that fans love, but it still plays it safe. While I’m happy with the overall experience, I can’t help but wish the developers had taken more risks and pushed the boundaries of what a baseball game could be.