While visually the PS3 version of the Show might not live up to the system's capabilities, any fan of the series that has been playing the PS2 version will agree that a prettier package is still a prettier package. While for the most part some of the visuals look ported over such as player models, backdrop textures in stadiums, and even those weird 10 frames per second flags in the background, some new graphical features improve upon being just a high resolution version of the PS2 game. The player's faces have been completely overhauled and have great face mapping textures, which mostly look great and spot on. This becomes especially creepy during close ups of the players after a big play as you will see their eyes move, and expressions on their faces depending on the situation. While there is new texture to the cloth on the uniforms and some movement to them, it must be noted that they still look carried over from the PS2 and don't really hang much like real uniforms. The stadiums have had some touch up work done to them like textures along the walls and individual and detailed crowds, but too much of their details still look like PS2 textures, especially the turf and grass. Lastly, the presentation remains identical as well, with the exception of some new cut scenes, such as talking with pitching coaches, blunders after a strikeout, and a few other interesting blips between at bats.

Audio has easily gotten the next gen touch thanks to the large sound capability. You will notice this right off the first crack of the bat, as it sound more realistic than any game before it. The crowd is more adaptive, reacts to situations, and will even remain lively if the stakes are high. The 3-man booth is the same as the PS2 version, but they still call the best virtual game in the league.

While some aspects that are ported over from the PS2 version may be frowned upon such as visuals, the game play has also been ported over, but this is a plus considering that it is the most authentic playing baseball title on the market. Unlike other franchises that get the next gen look, but let their game play fall to pieces, The Show for PS3 plays as solid as the PS2, but with some additions that just make it feel that much better. The hit variety has been increased so you'll see even more dribblers, foul variety, gappers, and thanks to new animations, cool turns to the bag for exciting outs. I just hope that next year when Sony decides to re-tool the visual engine that they don't try to tamper with the game play... they got it almost perfect.

The features of the PS3 version lack compared to the PS2 version, but only for those looking for HR derby mode and King of the Diamond. Otherwise, the same great franchise and Road to the Show modes are included and have the same amount of detail, depth, and options you've grown to love from this franchise. Online has been given a slight upgrade with better online matching options, weekly roster updates, and a cool sports ticker that informs you of the games going on that day.

Even though the PLayStation 3 is the definitive version of the series, and no doubt the best baseball game on the market, there are still some glaring issues that make the game seemed as if it were rushed to make this season. It will be interesting to see what Sony can do with this series with a bit more development time. For now, I'm happy to play my favorite baseball game in 720p HD than in SD, which only makes me wonder what's in store for next season.