MLB The Show 21 vs. RBI Baseball 21, Make Your Pick

MLB The show 21 is due out this April, but it's not alone in the baseball sim gaming world, as RBI Baseball 21 just released today on multiple platforms.

With two very different games landing at two different price points, how are you supposed to know which one is the right choice for you?

Fortunately, we're here to answer that by looking at the ways each title shines so you can make the call on which one to purchase and dive into.

RBI is the pick for new baseball gamers

If you've never played a baseball sim game before, MLB The Show 21 might just be too much to handle right out of the gate.

However, RBI Baseball 21 thrives on being an easy pick-up-and-play experience, which is perfect for new gamers.

With a simpler range of modes and simpler gameplay, RBI Baseball 21 is a great way to get your feet wet in baseball gaming and see if you end up wanting more, or decide it's not for you.

The Show is the only way to go for veterans

If you've been in the baseball gaming realm for years, there's really only one valid choice.

MLB The Show 21 looks to be the most in-depth and immersive baseball gaming sim that's ever been made, with major updates to key gaming mechanics like hitting and pitching, and news to come about a Complete Fielding Overhaul.

RBI Baseball 21 is probably not going to satisfy veterans, so they need to keep their eyes on the release of MLB The Show 21 next month.

RBI Baseball 21 won't break the bank

While MLB The Show 21 has a lot of pros, one of the cons to the game is a $60 price point on Current Gen systems and a $70 price point on Next Gen systems.

However, if you're looking for something more affordable, RBI Baseball 21 is just $30 on your platform of choice.

If you're not quite ready for the investment needed to take on The Show, RBI Baseball 21 is a cheaper, but still fun, alternative to turn your attention to.

The Show brings multiple in-depth game modes

While RBI Baseball 21 is a bit slim on content, with just Franchise Mode, Online Play, Exhibition Mode, and Home Run Derby, that's an aspect where MLB The Show 21 shines.

Diamond Dynasty, an extensive Franchise Mode, Road to the Show, and March to October all highlight The Show as top-notch gameplay modes for players to dive into.

The Show also has Online Play and a more in-depth creation suite than RBI, making it the way to go if you think RBI Baseball 21's features won't be enough for you.

It's RBI or nothing for Nintendo Switch and PC

Unfortunately, the decision on which game to go with may end up being decided by which platform you're gaming on.

While both titles will be available on PlayStation and Xbox, it's only RBI Baseball 21 that is set to be on Nintendo Switch and PC.

There has been speculation of an eventual reveal or later release for MLB The Show 21 on Switch or PC, but as of right now that remains unconfirmed, and RBI Baseball 21 looks to be your only option.

Next Gen Gamers need MLB The Show 21

If you're on PS5 or Xbox Series X|S and looking for Next Gen quality in your baseball gaming, MLB The Show 21 is the only valid option.

While RBI Baseball 21 has reportedly been optimized for Xbox Series X|S, the differences are astronomical when it comes to graphics quality and utilization of Next Gen capabilities.

MLB The Show 21 is even set to have an exciting Stadium Creator mode with thousands of customization options which will be exclusive to Next Gen versions of the title.

The Verdict: Which game wins?

Ultimately the decision between MLB The Show 21 and RBI Baseball 21 will depend on what kind of gamer you are, what you want in your game, what you want to pay, and which system you're on.

MLB The Show 21 may not be out yet, but it looks to be the superior title when it comes to providing the best and most in-depth experience.

However, don't overlook RBI Baseball 21 if the game's features, platform, and price are a better fit for you.