Maintaining the momentum of a yearly franchise like MLB The Show is no small feat. With a limited development window, the challenge lies in balancing new features, refining existing mechanics, and delivering meaningful content updates. MLB The Show 25 rises to that challenge admirably, offering substantive improvements that make it feel like more than just an incremental update. Thanks largely to changes in core modes like Road to the Show and Diamond Dynasty, this year’s entry feels fresh and genuinely worthwhile.
While the fundamental mechanics of baseball remain familiar, there are subtle refinements that stand out. For example, features such as two-way players, pitch clock implementation, and defensive shift regulations are now seamlessly integrated. A notable gameplay enhancement is the addition of quick time events for single-player control scenarios. The standout among these is a new swim move to dodge tags during stolen base attempts. Though initially concerning for its potential to unbalance base stealing, its limited appearance ensures it adds spice rather than breaks the game. Defenders, especially infielders, also now exhibit varied initial reactions, creating more noticeable differences between skilled and less competent players. This is particularly impactful in Franchise mode, where player ratings and attributes are central to strategic decisions.
Another new gameplay mechanic is “ambush hitting,” which allows players to anticipate either inside or outside pitches, trading off success in one zone for vulnerability in another. While the concept is compelling, many may find better results with a neutral approach. Hitting as a whole still feels satisfying, though some players might notice that perfect contact doesn’t always deliver the impactful results one would expect, with too many ending as mere singles or routine outs.
Franchise mode sees fewer sweeping changes but remains strong. The standout feature continues to be the ability to simulate games until key moments arise, where you can then step in. This selective engagement keeps the mode from feeling like a grind. A revamped free agency process introduces a focus system where you select specific targets and build rapport over time. This streamlined method adds a layer of strategy to team-building without overwhelming micromanagement.
Franchise and March to October both benefit from new presentation elements, such as dynamic player comparisons that give these modes a more polished feel. The addition of the “G.O.A.T.” difficulty level pushes the boundaries of skill with its narrow Plate Coverage Indicator and rapid pitch speeds, making it a welcome challenge for veteran players who thrive on high-stakes gameplay.
Road to the Show
The most dramatic improvements this year appear in Road to the Show. Rather than beginning at the combine, your player now starts back in high school. These early games offer a brief but entertaining experience as you try to attract attention from scouts and recruiters. This update brings a more organic progression and greater immersion. For the first time, college baseball is a legitimate path, with eight licensed teams providing alternate routes to the majors. Attending college not only offers higher starting attributes but also fast-tracks progression through the minor leagues, solving a long-standing pacing issue.
The player development system also receives a significant overhaul. Instead of passively improving skills through repeated use, players now earn upgrade tokens through gameplay. These can be strategically allocated to different attributes, encouraging players to be thoughtful about how they evolve their character. This new system delivers a compelling feedback loop that makes it difficult to stop playing. While the simplicity of some training drills might make them more attractive than complex mini-games, the trade-off is worth it for the sheer engagement the new progression brings.
Storyline Mode
The Negro League storyline returns for its third installment and continues to be one of the most impactful elements in the game. Combining short documentary-style segments with interactive moments, it celebrates legendary figures like “Cool Papa” Bell and Caleb “Turkey” Stearns. The mode is enriched by the presence of Bob Kendrick, whose narration adds gravitas and emotional weight.
However, while the content is still impressive, the format remains virtually unchanged from previous years. The repetitive structure—brief video clips followed by basic gameplay challenges—feels like a missed opportunity. Earlier seasons introduced imaginative scenarios, such as Satchel Paige’s memorable pitching sequence surrounded by sitting fielders. There’s untapped potential here to do more with the gameplay side, and it’s somewhat disappointing that this opportunity hasn’t been seized.
Another letdown is the absence of a deep narrative mode centered on a single modern or historical figure, which was a highlight in the previous installment. The more extensive storytelling, branching decisions, and unique rewards were promising steps forward. The decision to step back from that evolution makes this year’s effort feel like a holding pattern rather than a leap forward.
Diamond Dynasty
Diamond Dynasty, the card-collecting, team-building centerpiece of the game, introduces several player-friendly changes. Most importantly, the controversial Sets and Seasons system has been scrapped. This system, which limited the usability of cards to specific timeframes, often discouraged long-term engagement. With it gone, players can now fully invest in building their dream squads, knowing their efforts won’t be nullified a few months later.
Another exciting addition is the new Diamond Quest mode. It blends traditional card game mechanics with roguelike elements. Players roll a die to move across a board, encountering challenges, earning rewards, and facing off in three-inning games at various stadiums. Victory yields increasingly valuable prizes, and the ability to choose the difficulty of these stadium games adds another layer of strategy. Whether you want to play it safe or risk your progress for high-end cards, Diamond Quest offers a refreshing and entertaining single-player alternative.
Final Thoughts
MLB The Show 25 is a shining example of how a sports game can make meaningful yearly progress. The transformation of Road to the Show through both narrative and gameplay systems gives it new life. Diamond Dynasty’s return to permanence for card use and the introduction of Diamond Quest greatly enhance the mode’s value and replayability. Even if Storyline mode feels like it’s treading water, its historical focus remains a powerful and unique aspect of the series.
With nuanced gameplay tweaks, more immersive progression systems, and thoughtful quality-of-life improvements, MLB The Show 25 doesn’t just maintain the series’ high standards—it raises the bar. For longtime fans and new players alike, it’s a season worth suiting up for.
