When you look at MLB The Show’s presence on the Nintendo Switch, it’s a bit like watching a championship contender slowly unravel due to technical hang-ups. The fact that this fully-featured sports game exists on Nintendo’s aging hybrid console is impressive by itself, but if you’ve got any other way to dive into baseball gaming, it’s a tough sell these days. Over the four years I’ve been reviewing MLB The Show for Nintendo World Report, this year stands out as the most well-rounded in terms of game modes. The dedication to innovation in these modes is truly commendable, but unfortunately, they’re held back by the limits of outdated hardware.
One of the most exciting additions to the game is the overhaul of Diamond Dynasty, an online-only mode where you gather virtual cards to build your dream team for various challenges. In past years, this mode could get overwhelming with resets that rendered your collections pointless. However, that’s been fixed in 2025—it might be a bit slower to assemble your ultimate team, but it’s a welcome change.
There’s also the introduction of a fresh roguelike board game experience called Diamond Quest. You navigate a grid by rolling dice, discovering spaces, and tackling challenges. It’s a brilliant concept where you’re tasked with quick and longer challenges alike. But on the Switch, loading times drag down the pace, turning what should be a snappy experience into a bit of a grind. This sluggishness affects the entirety of Diamond Dynasty on Switch—a great idea marred by slow execution.
Switching gears to the Road to the Show mode, last year’s big refresh won my admiration, and this year, it gets even better with some refined story elements and the option to start from high school or college. Though it’s technically still not perfect on the Switch, the improvements over last year bring it closer to the big leagues.
I haven’t spent much time with the Franchise mode in the past, but I’ve always had a soft spot for it in sports simulations. This year’s version sees a significant overhaul, offering a deeper experience as a general manager. Its comprehensive approach to things like free agency and player drafts adds layers of complexity. While some of the tutorials could be clearer (I stumbled during my first off-season), the intricacies of team management became rewarding once I got the hang of it.
The Storylines museum modes that were first introduced in 2023 remain a compelling feature, though they seem to be running out of steam. Yet, exploring the stories of figures like Cool Papa Bell and Turkey Stearnes is still a highlight. Sony promises more Storylines with future updates, even if we’re missing something as unique as last year’s Derek Jeter Storyline. Nonetheless, the Negro Leagues content is exceptional, despite some recycling from previous entries.
If you’re a Nintendo Switch owner looking for a licensed baseball game, MLB The Show 25 delivers. It’s a faithful rendition of the series’ acclaimed gameplay and vast array of modes. However, every component feels somewhat restricted by the Switch’s limitations. Here’s hoping the potential Switch 2 offers a more fitting home for MLB The Show 26.
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