Baseball Stars 2

Game Details:

This title features a massive graphical leap over its predecessor. SNK took full advantage of the NEOGEO's ability to handle large, scaling sprites, making every player distinct—from muscle-bound sluggers to agile fielders. One of the game's standout features is the "Fired Up" system, which allows players to activate "Power Bats" during critical situations, unleashing a fiery explosion on contact. Additionally, the game is packed with expressive taunts, angry reactions when players get hit by a pitch, and various comical on-field interactions, filling every game with the frenetic energy unique to 90s arcade titles.

Game Guide:

• Timing Your Power Bat: You have a limited number of Power Bat uses per game. Don't waste them early on; save them for critical moments when you have runners on base (like bases loaded). Once activated, if you make solid contact with a ball in the strike zone, it's highly likely to result in a home run or a deep hit. It's the ultimate tool for a comeback.
• Varying Your Pitches: When pitching, don't just hold the joystick in one direction. By tapping the joystick left or right just as you release the ball, you can change its trajectory (curveball or slider). Additionally, holding 'Down' for a slow pitch (Change-up) is incredibly effective against aggressive batters, as it can completely throw off their timing.
• Anticipating on Defense: When the ball is hit, quickly watch for the shadow on the ground. The outfielders are fast, but if you can anticipate the landing spot for a catch, you can trigger a special cutscene for a direct throw to get an out. Note: If a runner tries to collide with your catcher, mashing the buttons repeatedly will increase your chances of a successful tag.
• Monitoring Player Stamina: If your pitcher starts wiping away sweat frequently or their pitch speed drops noticeably, it means their stamina is depleted. Don't hesitate—go to the menu and bring in a relief pitcher immediately. Otherwise, the AI will likely start hitting back-to-back long balls.