All-Star Baseball 2002

Grumpy gamers with long memories will remember that it took a year and a half after the N64 launched for its first baseball game to hit the shelves. In what may be Exhibit A of how easy it is to program for the Nintendo GameCube, ASB 2002 is launching with the system.

Stadiums and some graphics, such as player faces, have been updated. The game`s solid pitching and batting engines are back. But fielding and running AI can still be frustrating. The game`s most noticeable change may be the extensive commentary by Byung-Hyun Kim consoler Bob Brenley and former broadcast partner Thom Brennaman.

Exclusives to the GCN version of ASB 2002 include a Puerto Rico stadium and Safeco Field decked out for the 2001 All-Star Game. Acclaim also promises that the GCN version will give players unprecedented control over checked swings as well as a CPU-controlled defense assist option. There`s even something called Broken Bat Technology, which will doubtless help Diamondback fans bent on recreating Luis Gonzalez`s historic game seven swing.

Acclaim has the full licenses of all 30 big-league teams and more than 700 players. Bonuses include a Hall of Fame team that features Mike Schmidt, Reggie Jackson and Nolan Ryan and retro uniforms, such as those sported by the Amazin` Mets of `62.

Game modes include Exhibition, Season, World Series, Home Run Derby and Batting Practice. General Manager mode lets you trade, sign free agents and draft players. Do well in a season to pick up awards such as Most Valuable Player, Cy Young, Rookie Of The Year, and Gold Glove.