The original rock band did a sterling job of building on Guitar Hero’s success before it, introducing the ability to play multiple instruments to the UK market for the first time in history.
Now Rock Band 2 looks set to take that success to the next level – with a host of new tracks and features to get would-be superstars reaching for their wallet. After a slow roll out that started with the 360 version last year, then March’s release of the PS2 and PS3 versions, it now arrives on Wii, too.
For the most part, both retailers and consumers will know exactly what to expect with Rock Band 2. Retaining the popular formula of the original, the title allows gamers to play through a wide variety of rock and pop tunes. They can either take up the axe as the band’s guitar or bass player, rock out on the drums, or provide the vocals with the microphone.
The single player modes continue to offer both hardcore and casual appeal, enticing the former with an addictive scoring mechanism and amusing the latter with its ‘pick up and play’ nature.
But it is the multiplayer where the game comes into its own. Up to four gamers can team up and form a complete band, working together as they try to perform each song as best as they can. Should one player perform poorly, the in-game crowd will boo them from the stage, and the remaining rockers need to build up their score to get the band back on track.
STRIKE UP THE BAND
The PS3 version is identical to the Xbox 360 version, boasting all the features Microsoft’s consumers have been enjoying since November. They and the PS2 edition are not only compatible with the original Rock Band instruments, they also work with the controllers made for Guitar Hero III and Guitar Hero: World Tour.
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The Wii version is remarkably similar to those available on its more techonologically superior rivals. Unlike the original Rock Band on Wii, Rock Band 2 features everything available in the Xbox 360 and PS3 editions, including the ‘World Tour’ mode and character customisation systems – features that were noticeably absent in the last game.
More importantly, the focus on multiplayer is maintained with the online modes, including Battle Of The Bands, which pits two teams of up to four players against each other over Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. The online mode is pitched as being just as impressive and enjoyable as it is on the more powerful machines.
Wii owners will also be pleased to know they will be treated to the same wealth of downloadable content the 360 and PS3 enjoys. The entire Rock Band DLC catalogue will be available, allowing gamers to download songs and stream them from the SD card.
The PS2 edition is a more limited version, but still as appealing as ever. Due to the console’s limitations, there is no DLC or online multiplayer available. However, there will be online leaderboards, enabling players to compare their scores with other PS2 owners from around the world.
Rock Band 2 for the PS3, PS2 and Wii is poised to capitalise on the Easter period, which has always been a strong time for games sales.
Not only will it capture the attention of those who have been waiting for the latest Rock Band game or have only been tempted by them in the past, it will also serve to satisfy players who are growing weary of previous rhythm action games and need a new collection of songs to reignite their interest.
