When players first boot up MLB The Show 23, they'll likely be excited to play their first game. Often, players will take the first setting for each area and hope that it's the "default" or best choice for them. When it comes to hitting, this could be a huge mistake.
The differences between zone, directional, and timing hitting are not small. A player who has a Hall of Fame career with one might find that can't get out of Double-A ball with another. MLB The Show 23 offers three choices that gamers should understand before moving on.
Zone Hitting
- Intended for average gamers
- Highest ceiling, lowest floor
Zone hitting is going to be standard for most gamers. Aim the contact zone and press the desired swing button when the ball arrives. Because of its precision, gamers can get the most out of this one by putting the zone right on the ball for maximum success.
The biggest drawback is that players who don't have their zone over the ball will get poor contact or miss entirely. Craft the best batting stance to get the most out of each swing. For players that can track where the ball will land with some accuracy, this is the best setting.
Directional Hitting
- Intended for novice gamers
- Average floor and ceiling
The only difference between zone and directional hitting is that the zone can be moved anywhere while directional hitting will target high, low, left, right, or center (if no direction is given). This makes it much easier to guess the general area of the ball.
The drawback comes when a ball is thrown on the corner. For example, a ball that is both low and outside will force the hitter to choose low or outside, meaning they're not going to get a perfect location. Still, use some of the best equipment and these small inaccuracies won't be unbearable.
Timing Hitting
- Intended for non-gamers
- Lowest ceiling, highest floor
Players don't have to worry about the location of the ball at all with timing hitting. Like the other two options, players will choose the type of swing and when to swing (or not swing, in the case of a ball). This makes it very simple for people who usually don't play video games.
This is perfect for children. Have them play for one of the best teams and let them contribute this way on offense. Balls on the corners will still be tough to hit as the default area is locked to the center of the zone, but it should be a mostly positive experience.
MLB The Show 23 is available now for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.