Jikkyou Powerful Pro Yakyuu '96 is one of those classic SNES baseball games that just feels right. It’s got that early Konami arcade-style energy—fast pitches, big swings, and fielding that’s simple but still makes you sweat when a line drive comes screaming at your outfielders. The player sprites are chunky and expressive, and there’s something satisfying about the way the ball cracks off the bat.

You’ve got a few teams to pick from (no real MLB licenses, but you’ll recognize the vibes), and the controls are straightforward—no crazy button combos, just timing and a bit of strategy. I remember getting wrecked by the AI’s curveballs at first until I learned to wait for my pitch. The crowd animations and little cutscenes after big plays add just enough flair to keep it from feeling sterile.

If you’re into retro sports games, this one’s a solid pick for a quick game or two. Just don’t blame me when you get too cocky and give up a walk-off homer in the bottom of the ninth.