Finding yourself immersed in a virtual sports world is the next best thing to playing the sport in real life. Video games bring the childhood dream of playing professional baseball alive.
Unlike other consoles, there is a limited selection of baseball video games for Nintendo Switch. Also, there are fewer options for realistic gameplay. The selection offered for Nintendo Switch leans heavily into arcade-style games.
Here are the 4 best baseball games on Nintendo Switch.
1. MLB RBI Baseball 21
RBI Baseball first started in 1987 but ceased production between 1995 and 2014. Overall, this game is a solid choice for the casual gamer who enjoys arcade-style gameplay. Some casual gamers may not like the more realistic, baseball-centric style MLB The Show 21 offers.
Despite a reliance on an arcade-style gameplay, MLB RBI Baseball 21 still has qualities that appeal to hardcore baseball fans. If a gamer wants to turn it on and play right away, Exhibition mode is the best option. Pick the teams, the stadium, set the line-up, and play. It is that easy.
The game also offers a Franchise mode. In this mode, gamers are in charge of building a team capable of winning a World Series. Gamers can still play the games in this mode as well.
The biggest positive of this game is that it is perfect for the casual gamer. If someone has not played a baseball game before, they can still find it easy to play this game.
Compared to MLB The Show 21, RBI Baseball 21 has a limited learning curve. Anyone can immediately start playing and have the fun they deserve.
MLB RBI Baseball 21 is an economical, fun option for any gamer. It is perfect for casual gamers and casual baseball fans.
Pros:
- Arcade style gameplay
- No learning curve
- Price
Cons:
- Not as realistic
- Lack of depth in gameplay
2. Super Mega Baseball 3
Price: $44.99
Super Mega Baseball 3 offers a fun, arcade-style gameplay. It is a throwback to older baseball games like Backyard Baseball.
The game does not feature real players or real teams. Instead, it is all fictional. This might sound disheartening to hardcore, or even casual, baseball fans. One of the appeals of sports games is using real players and teams.
While the game features fun, arcade-style gameplay, the gaming motions are realistic and lifelike. There are no crazy movesets or turbo-charged boosters that some arcade sports games have featured in the past.
This aspect fits well for someone who wants to play a baseball video game, but might not know anything about the current state of the game.
In this edition, the game features a Franchise mode. Gamers have the chance to build their team, develop the players, and become winners.
The developing option goes as far as choosing players’ exercise routines and diets. This feature fits well for someone who wants the team-building option, but is indifferent on whether it is with real players or not.
Super Mega Baseball 3 is the best example of a video game that encapsulates the joy that comes from playing baseball. In addition, there is little to no learning curve for this game.
Pros:
- Throwback to older baseball games
- Game modes for all gamer levels
- Realistic gameplay
Cons:
- Price
- Does not include real MLB teams or players
3. Home Run High
Price: $14.00
Home Run High is very different from most baseball games on the market. It channels nostalgic feelings of the former Backyard Baseball series. Tasked with leading their high school baseball team to victory, players control a team of fictional high schoolers on their quest for glory.
Gamers are able to train their players to improve their skills. To do so, the game allows players to upgrade and install the facilities at the school. Some examples of the facilities offered include batting cages and showers.
In addition to on-the-field training, players are also responsible for the education of their players. This includes studying and improving the educational facilities at the school.
Finally, gamers are able to create on-campus housing for their players. This allows gamers to maximize the amount of time their in-game players can spend training and studying.
Once gamers feel their players are ready, they can select the best players available and test their skills at tournaments.
Overall, this is a fun option for any casual gamers who are more interested in the behind-the-scenes aspect of team building. But, they can still enjoy the game action that other titles offer. One downside is that Home Run High does not include any real life baseball players.
Pros
- Extensive team building options
- Arcade style gameplay
- Low price
Cons
- Does not include real MLB teams or players
- Focuses more on behind the scenes than actual baseball
4. MLB RBI Baseball 20
With limited current baseball video game options on the market, let us take a look at a slightly older title. MLB RBI Baseball 20 is the previous year’s version of MLB RBI Baseball 21.
MLB RBI Baseball 20 served as a soft reboot for the game. It took the components of previous versions and incorporated more realistic components.
Mainly, the pitching and hitting mechanics changed for the better. Developers were able to make changes that made sense to existing players, but remained true to the simplistic, arcade-style gameplay.
One of the biggest benefits of this game is the pick up and playability. All of the gameplay mechanics are simplistic and quick. Players now get the ability to incorporate more realistic pitching and hitting options. This is a bonus for players who want a little more than just an arcade game.
The biggest flaw of the game is not incorporating the signature motions of hitters and pitchers. Younger generations often want to emulate their favorite player. With the recycled motions in the game, not every player is true to life. This might be disappointing for younger gamers.
Franchise mode exists in this version. True to the pick up and play mentality, the mode is simpler than versions of it in other game titles. Immediately start playing games after a few roster tweaks.
Unlike other game titles, there is no need to worry about setting ticket prices or finding cash flow. That option would feel burdensome and out of place for this game.
Overall, this game is a perfect option for those who simply want to play virtual baseball. This is not anywhere close to a simulation game. Nor are there a lot of game modes. It is fun, simple, and to the point.
Pros:
- Price
- Simplicity
- Easy game play mechanics
Cons:
- Not for gamers who want full experience
- Recycled hitter and pitcher motions
Final Thoughts
Overall, all of these titles are excellent choices for gamers with a Nintendo Switch. For gamers who want realistic gameplay, RBI Baseball 21 or RBI Baseball 20 are the best options.
For gamers who want an arcade-style experience, Super Mega Baseball 3 or Home Run High are the best options. The best budget buys out of the four selections is Home Run High. Gamers who want realistic gameplay and the ability to build a team should stick with either of the RBI Baseball titles.
However, if gamers do not care about real-world players and want to enjoy the behind-the-scenes fun, Super Mega Baseball 3 or Home Run High are the best options.
Our Baseball Game Recommendations on other Platforms: