If you’re into video games and especially baseball games, you may want to try out RBI Baseball 8bit. This game is designed to be played on the NES console and is currently available on Nintendo’s website. However, it is likely that there will be future versions of this game that are geared toward other systems such as the PlayStation and Xbox.
NES version
The original RBI Baseball sported an 8-bit design and was one of the first licensed baseball games from the MLB Players Association. Its roster was composed of eight teams based on the real-life locations of the actual MLB teams. Two All-Star teams were also included. A postseason round was available, as were two types of exhibition matches.
Some of the more memorable moments were achieved by the player or by the game. For example, the infamous 1986 World Series game, albeit a recreation of the real thing. This was a fun and enlightening experience.
Other highlights include a fun little gizmo that blew you away with its complexity and novelty. In addition, the game has a sweet looking graphics and sound.
There was an arcade version of the game, which boasted a number of innovations, including the ability to play a game of all-time hitters. Moreover, the game had a couple of rudimentary controls, including a directional pad.
While it is not the best baseball game on the market, it is a fun and exciting title for a small group of devoted fans. However, if you are a fan of the sport, you will likely be more interested in a more polished offering.
That said, the current edition of the game is a little too simple for my taste.
Current version
In the eight-bit and sixteen-bit days, baseball video games were popular. They required players to think. Today, fans have a variety of options. Whether they want to play a simple game or a high-end game, there’s a baseball video game for them.
RBI Baseball is an arcade baseball game that was first released for the Nintendo Entertainment Systems in 1988. It used real player names and team colors, and the two-button control scheme was similar to Super Mario Bros.
The eight-bit version of the game is fun for younger kids, though there are a few glitches. For example, the game can’t be restarted after a brushback pitch. Another glitch is that a score graphic in the corner of the screen shows the bases empty when there are actually runners.
Since the release of the NES version, the game has been updated at least twice. It has a postseason mode, online play, and a re-release in 2014. MLBAM, the official licensing agent for Major League Baseball, plans to release the game 15 this year.
The current version of the game lacks official teams and stadiums, and it also lacks a complete complement of players. This is a minus that makes the game harder to recommend.
Future versions
The RBI Baseball name may be a mouthful but the game is a stalwart of its era. Its popularity has grown through multiple programs adapted for personal computers, websites, and tournaments. Despite its humble origins, it has been resurrected in recent years. In addition to the NES incarnation, there’s now an Xbox One edition.
It isn’t without its flaws, though. First, there’s the matter of how many nine-inning games you can play in a single sitting. Second, the controls aren’t very intuitive. Moreover, the ball’s speed is controlled by a mouse-like control stick, which is a bit finicky.
However, the game’s real draw is its ability to showcase the names and logos of major league teams and players. There are eight MLB teams to choose from. Each team plays in their home stadium, which is the best part. Unlike other sports video games, you can’t charge the mound after receiving a brushback pitch.
Of course, it’s not just the teams and players that make the game fun. Aside from the official logos, you get to experience a full-fledged exhibition mode. You can even take part in online multiplayer modes.
On top of the aforementioned features, there are also other cool-looking options. For instance, a new set of stadiums is on the way.
