Rock Band 2

"And the show continues"

After milking the first Rock Band for all it's worth, I was ready for the fresh, new set list on Rock Band 2, or so I thought. In Harmonix, MTV, and EA's sequel, they bring songs ranging from old scool rock to the current Metal scene. A nice bonus is your already downloaded songs will immediately be put into the already impressive library of songs but for the small fee of $5 all the original Rock Band songs can be imported. For a rhythm game such as this I grade it on Graphics, Playability, Music, Extras and Replay Value

Graphics - 10

It's pretty much a polished version of the first Rock Band which was already a sight to be held. The blur effects in the background during Overdrive, (Or at least that's when I noticed them) Are really cool to watch when u have the time to look away from the notes flying at you. Overall it looks as sexy as can be.

Playability - 10

Here is where Rock Band 2 becomes golden. Now you are able to perform pseudo Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs with chords. This makes some songs much more enjoyable. However I have yet to see if it has affected any of the original songs. Another plus is that now the Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs are much easier to see this time around. And last but not least, there are Drum Solos.

Music - 10

As I mentioned before the range between genres is there. I can be rocking out to "Almost Easy" by A7X or I could be strumming along to "Bodhisattva" by Steely Dan. This keeps things different throughout the game. However if you are a major metal/hardcore fan then some songs will push you away.

Extras - 10

By extras I refer to the things outside the game like modes, band management, etc. In RB2 The Tour has taken a change and has included the hiring and firing of managers, roadies, sound guys and the like. Another pleasing change are the Challenges. Each instrument and the band itself has a list of challenges which include playing certain set list, never using Overdrive, and among other things. The customization option is still here but doesn't expand as much as I would have liked. Few things have been added in all departments. One other extra is the Drummer Freestyle mode. It lets you pretty much smack the drums till the sun comes up with different effects. In the Band Tour you no longer have "Band Leaders" and you can also Add-Ins whenever someone is not playing.

Replay Value - 10

This game lives on the replay value and not just on the multiplayer aspect. Some of these songs are brutal, yet they make you work harder to beat them. Just when you were able to throw down "Green Grass and High Tides"'s solos, they throw "Painkiller", "Battery", "Panic Attack" and among other songs that will make your hands hurt. Overall this game is amazing in every aspect and any fan of Rock Band or Guitar Hero for that matter should give this a good run.

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 09/16/08

Game Release: Rock Band 2 (US, 09/14/08)