Review: Rock Band 2

I've been into the "Music Game" genre ever since Karaoke Revolution was released, and after purchasing Guitar Hero II, I felt that it would be neat to combine the two games to form a sort of rock star simulation. Luckily, it seems like video game developer Harmonix thought similarily, as the first Rock Band was released in late 2007, but at a near 200 dollar price tag, it seemed a little steep for just one game. However, after playing it at friend's houses, I began to see the appeal of the game. It was most likely the cohesion of all the instruments, being played together that somewhat immersed me into feeling as though I were playing for a live audience, even if I was holding a guitar that looked like something out of a Fisher Price catalog. Needless to say, I was much more apt to purchase the next upgraded version when it came along.
Cue yesterday. I bought the full game, complete with microphone, guitar and drum kit, and prepared to begin the onslaught of rock that was to ensue.

Immediately when you start up the game, you are treated to an over the top opening cinematic, where two bands battled atop of two cars, while singing Cheap Trick's "Hello There." It truly sets the tone for the game. Very enjoyable to watch.

I loved the layout of the game. It was non-linear, meaning that I was not required to play any specific songs in any specific order. I could create my own setlists, or have the computer randomly select them. It was a thrill attempting to play songs that were much more difficult and fast, but knowing that I could at least halfway keep up with them made me feel like nothing short of a rock star, as cliche as that may sound.

I'll sum up a few of my favorite features of the game in list:
1. Tour Mode. You are able to play in different venues, by playing different setlists, and furthering your fame by collecting money and fans. Occasionally, you will encounter a challenge, (could be to play a hard song at the end of a set, or achieving a certain score) which adds a new dimension of difficulty to the game.
2. Guitar Effects. When you set off your "Star Power", which doubles your points for a short time, you are also able to change how your guitar sounds. You can make it sound like a "Wah-Wah", muted, distored, or a variety of other sounds while you play. It adds a certain element of immersion, so that you are able to continue to feel like a professional guitarist.
3. Drumming in General. I am not very good at it, but drumming is fun. Trying to keep the beat, while occasionally having a "Neil Pert"-esque solo every once in a while is incredibly satisfying. I'm sure as the difficulty increases, the enjoyment of this will also.

Another thing that impresses me with Harmonix is the inclusion of Downloadable Content. Players are able to purchase single songs for a mere $1.99, and add them to your library. This allows for a fully customizable experience for the player, and for them to enjoy the songs they love, without having to wade through the ones they don't like. It's a great idea, and considering they release new content every week, it should increase the longevity of the game as well.

Another aspect that the game includes is the ability to play with other gamers online. I've never really been much for competitive gaming, but it is a neat feature that works well. It's somewhat humbling to play online, because as decent as I believe I am, there's always a 13 year old who totally schools me.

It seems like Harmonix is doing everything in their power to treat the customer to a fun rock star simulation, by producing an immersive, technically skilled, and customizable experience for everyone who enjoys video games and music.