Control of the game isn’t perfect, playing a sports game with a keyboard is like playing a sports game with a keyboard. Not great. While catching requires use of the mouse, I think that fielding would be much better with a controller. Throwing to a base is pretty easy, just use a number key corresponding to the base (4 is home).
The server keeps track of all your in game stats and as you play you acquire experience points, which are used to improve your abilities in standard RPG like setting.
If there is a problem with a particular player, you can ban him by pressing F4 and clicking the check box next to his name. If a majority of players ban them, they will be removed from the game.
The stadium you play in looks very close to Kauffmann Stadium and is complete with active fountains. While the graphics aren’t going to remind you of recent games, they are on par with High Heat 2000...and in this game, it’s not about the graphics – it’s more about the gameplay.
The biggest problem I had in the beta is still there, and it’s not the developers fault – it’s the connection with other players. People are just not dedicated to the game and will drop out. For some, I’m sure it’s out of frustration; others are just the usual gang of idiots.
With the new league format, there is certainly an incentive to play the game and not drop out, but only time will tell if it will work. The first league is scheduled for November 2006.
Although there are still some things to be worked out, there is enormous potential. Major plusses for the game are that for one, the download is free (as opposed to paying a $40 fee just to obtain the game), you can play as many pickup games and build up your character as you see fit without cost, but now you can also join a pay league and win some decent prizes.
The rating I’m giving Ultimate Baseball Online is an early review..with so many new things going on in the game, I’m hoping that some of the control issues will be worked out and maybe have a little more stronger feedback system for people who disconnect all too often. When I was first told that the game was going to have a monthly fee, I was going to reflect that in the ratings; however I think the new system they’ve put into the game is very fair and a fantastic idea.
If you have the time to put in the game, I think it will be very enjoyable. I can’t wait to start seeing level 25 pitchers for sale on eBay. Well I don’t think you can actually do this in UBO, but you get the gist. The price is right to get started and it’s definitely worth a download. UBO makes for a great Hot Stove League game and I’m looking forward to playing it all winter long.
