Still rockin' after all these years.
The first Rock Band game was a culmination of everything Harmonix had learned over the course of creating Guitar Hero. It was at this point that the guitar-based rhythm game had truly evolved. Now, one year and hundreds of DLC songs later, Rock Band 2 does its best to keep this IP at the top of the rock game food chain. At first glance, Rock Band 2 seemed totally moot, taking into account all the new songs that had been released weekly up to that point. But, this is more than just 80 new songs. RB2 shows that Harmonix has listened to the public and tightened some loose bolts left from the first one. It was obvious Harmonix also cares about all that DLC they put out as well. Every DLC song purchased for Rock Band seamlessly integrates with Rock Band 2. So that 30 Seconds to Mars song you "bought for your girlfriend" is already available from the start. The Solo Tour has been nixed and the "Band World Tour" mode can be played solo. It's a lot tighter without the whole "band leader" thing holding you down. Also, if you want your drummer to sing and drum like Don Henley, your character isn't tied to one instrument. The new instrument controllers are sturdier (I'm looking at you, kick pedal) and have improved features. The drums are quieter and the guitar not only looks cool, but has an IR sensor for easy calibration with your home theater settings. Full price may seem like a stiff deal at first, but take into account all things that make Rock Band 2 a tighter, more cohesive experience. The orginal will seem dated by comparison. This is also a great place to begin if you've been living under under a rock and never played the first game.
