Just as spring comes along every year, so, predictably, do new additions to certain sports video-games franchises, including baseball and golf games. This genre is great for the whole sports-loving family to play. Here's our take on several new versions of venerable series.
Major League Baseball 2K13
MLB 2K13 (pictured above) doesn't offer much improvement from 2K12: It just feels like last year's game with an updated roster. If you're an Xbox 360 owner and you need to scratch your baseball itch, this will get the job done. But if you have the option, go with MLB 13: The Show. Note that MLB 2K13 is also available as a bundle pack with NBA2K13 for $80, though, which is a great value for two games.
For PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Price: $60
MLB 13: The Show
MLB 13, on the other hand, adds some improvements to last year's version of the game. It offers a beginner mode, so it's very easy for newcomers to the series to jump in and play. The visuals are great, too; people walking by will think it's a real baseball game. MLB 13 features lots of game modes to keep it interesting: These include The Show Live, new this year, which automatically updates your in-game roster to match the real MLB roster, including injuries and trades. And you can use the PlayStation Move motion-based controller when you're at bat.
For PlayStation 3, Vita
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Price: $60
Get more reviews and advice from our guide to video games, consoles, and tech toys.
Tiger Woods: PGA Tour 14
PGA Tour 14 is a solid game that golf fans will enjoy. It's easy to pick up and play, but also difficult to master. This will keep both casual gamers and those looking for more of a challenge happy. The career mode allows you to create your own golfer and work your way up to the PGA tour. While the game will work with the Kinect motion-based controller on Xbox and the Move for PlayStation 3, traditional controllers seem to be the way to go for tighter control.
For PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Price: $60
