Super Mega Baseball 3

Super Mega Baseball isn't as deep a simulation as MLB The Show, but doesn't have to be: it gets the fundamentals right and has taken meaningful steps toward being a more complete baseball game.

The excellent franchise mode adds loads of depth and decision making, and on-field play is livelier than ever.

With its smart, engrossing franchise mode bringing it home, Super Mega Baseball 3 is another fantastic entry in what has become one of my all-time favorite sports series.

I enjoy this game for what it does on both the casual and hardcore fronts, which is not an easy line to walk.

Super Mega Baseball 3 is a refinement done right. The series' accessible action remains easy to pick up and play, but teensy tweaks to systems such as base stealing add immeasurable depth to the overall experience. It's the multi-season Franchise mode that's the real star of the show here, though, adding just enough economical depth to keep you engaged in the storyline of your squad, while still ensuring that you spend more time out on the field than in spreadsheets.

What it lacks in hyperrealism and officially-licensed teams, Super Mega Baseball 3 more than makes up for with a carefully adjusted set of physics that are deep enough to cater to RBI Baseball players while offering up the welcome addition of some improved modes. Franchise mode alone feels like a proper extension of the brand, with its irreverent sense of humour lending a welcome nuance to an otherwise content-heavy sports simulation.

For those who don’t have access to a PS4, Super Mega Baseball 3 still offers a solid overall package and will not disappoint anyone looking for a good time.

A lot of sports games can take inspiration from some of the good things Super Mega Baseball 3 offers and I hope that Metalhead Software can steal some good ideas for the training and management side of the sport from other games for Super Mega Baseball 4.

Super Mega Baseball 3 keeps the fun gameplay and adds a Franchise Mode and player traits for a winning display.

Super Mega Baseball 3 is the perfect mix of a baseball sim and arcade baseball game. Those looking to fill the void of MLB The Show like games will find an interesting and deep experience (albeit not as deep) where they can craft their team, strategize and feel like they have control over their team. On the flip side, those looking for a simple, easy to pick up and play baseball game should jump on Super Mega Baseball 3. Definitely a must-play.