Baseball Stars 2 is a 2-player baseball arcade game released by SNK in 1992 for the Neo-Geo console. A less cartoony console version was released for the NES by Romstar the same year.
The Neo-Geo version was released for Virtual Console on December 10, 2007 and the PlayStation 2, PSP and Wii as part of SNK Arcade Classics Vol. 1.
Baseball Stars 2 takes everything right about its prequel -- Baseball Stars Professional -- and pumps it up to the tenth degree. One of the best arcade baseball games ever made, Baseball Stars 2 doesn't bother with real teams or players, but just a pure stick-and-ball experience dripping with personality and gorgeous graphics.
Basics
You have two play options at the beginning of the game -- Two-player (a single game played by one or two players) or Pennant Race, where you must win 15 games to earn a championship. You can also choose which fighting style you want, Auto or Manual. That means when someone inevitably rushes the mound, the ensuring fight will play out automatically or you'll have to control it yourself.
Batting Controls
Tap button 1 to swing the bat or return to base; button 2 controls base stealing and leading off; button 3 is your bunt button; and button 4 calls for a Time Out, where you can send in a pinch hitter or power up your current batter. During running commands, use the directional pad to choose your bases -- right for 1st; up for 2nd; left for 3rd; and down for home plate.
Fielding Controls
While in the field, use button 1 to pitch, throw the ball and jump to catch the ball. Button 2 will allow you to run to a base while holding the ball and to feint the ball. Button 4 calls for a Time Out, allowing you to send in a relief pitcher. While throwing or running with the ball, use the directional pad to choose a base -- right for 1st, up for 2nd, left for 3rd and down for home plate. Likewise, use the directional pad to control the speed and direction of your pitches.
Tip: Fly Balls
Watch the position of your outfielders carefully. If they put their arms up once they've stopped running under a fly ball, it means they're in position to make the catch.
Tip: Pitching
Even after the pitch is thrown, it's possible to control the ball a little bit as it flies toward the plate. Use this strategy to confuse the batter.