E3 2001: Hands-onWorld Series Baseball 2K2

Sega unveiled the anticipated follow-up to the admittedly disappointing WSB 2K1 behind closed doors at E3. World Series Baseball 2K2 has been completely revamped and is currently in development at Sega's flagship sports development studio, Visual Concepts. The game's engine has been built from the ground up, and new features such as online options and a revamped gamplay system have been added. The first and perhaps most important gameplay tweak in WSB 2K2 is the addition of complete fielding controls. One of the face buttons on the Dreamcast pad switches control to the player closest to a ball in play, and once the ball is retrieved, a throw can be made to any of the bases. Additional modifications include minor changes in the pitching and batting system, giving players more control over these aspects of the game as well.

World Series Baseball 2K2 will have five modes of play: exhibition, season, playoffs, home run derby, and online. In the game, players can go online--like with the other 2K games in Sega's lineup--and compete head-to-head over a network. The online mode will include extensive chat options and the interface is very similar to the ones seen in NBA 2K1 and NFL 2K1. The game's season mode also has a series of new features. The game will now include a fantasy draft, the ability to control multiple teams, player injuries, and enhanced lineup management options such as the ability to create, trade, release, and sign players.

Visually, the original game was already quite impressive on the Dreamcast. The sequel has improved on that realistic visual style, with signature batting and pitching styles for the game's most recognizable superstars. Additionally, subtle details such as sunglasses, shin guards, and elbow protectors are now shown on the player models. Overall, the animation seems significantly smoother, when compared to the first game. Like in the other Visual Concepts games, player movement through the use of the analog stick is highly natural--players display quick reaction times to controller commands.

Naturally, World Series Baseball 2K2 will have such options as team-specific playbooks, up-to-date MLB 2001 rosters, and fully licensed stadiums. The game will be released for the Sega Dreamcast in June.