Hardball

Getting started with HardBall! on the MSX 2 is pretty straightforward. When you boot the game, you'll likely see a title screen and a prompt to press a key to start. The main menu lets you choose between a single-player game (you vs. CPU) or a two-player game. Use the arrow keys to highlight your choice and press X to confirm. The game will then proceed to the first inning.

The core loop is simple: pitch, bat, field, repeat. As the pitcher, you select a pitch type (fastball, curve, etc.) and location by moving a cursor on the strike zone with the arrow keys, then press the B button to throw. As the batter, you must time your swing - press the A button just as the ball reaches the plate. If you hit, you'll control the batter running to first base (or further) using the D-pad and button presses to advance or return. In the field, you control the closest fielder (the game auto-switches) and try to catch the ball and throw it to a base.

There are a few things new players should know. First, the game uses a simple stat system: each player has a batting average and pitching rating, but you don't have to manage a roster. Second, base running is semi-automatic - you'll need to press a button to make the runner go, but the computer handles some decisions. The MSX 2 version has English menus (since it's an American game), so no language barrier. If you've ever played baseball video games from the 8-bit era, you'll pick this up in minutes. Just be patient with the controls - they take a little practice but are responsive.