Operation Sports is the first site to post true impressions of MLB 2K9. Previous hands-on previews have pretty much just summed up the features while making sure to avoid discussing their opinions on the game. However Steve over at OS has laid out some of the things he likes and some of the things that he has found bothersome in the game.
Basically it sounds as though that as expected the game is improved overall. The commentary, presentational elements and flow to the game due to the real-time events provide a much better experience. However some issues such as the framerate (at times) and the CPU swinging at every strike are reason for concern.
I have seen slowdown and loss of frames during certain cut scenes and foul ball situations. Obviously, these instances will not affect the gameplay at all, but there are some that do. For example, I have seen slowdowns on grounders in the infield, pop ups that drop just in front of an outfielder and on occasion after a bunt when the catcher is throwing the ball to first base. Just remember, I am not seeing this stuff all the time, but I am seeing it.
I still can’t get used to seeing that huge pitching circle and flash of light too, I guess I’ll have to see when playing 2K9 if that continues to irk me or if it really isn’t a big deal. Click here to head over and check out the full hands-on preview at OS.