Things to take into consideration when buying ROCKBAND.
A few things you might want think about before purchasing a X Box 360 Rock band bundle, there is NOT a shortage of this item in many area's throughout the US as rumored to be. Many stores here in Iowa still have bundles to sell. There's also a widespread problem with the strum bar on the Rockband guitar. Retailers will not accept defective hardware or software, but the EA website has been very good in replacing the defective items. Many can be simply repaired by removing the back of the guitar & adjusting the 2 tension screws by the strum bar. Also spraying compressed air around the strum bar will do the trick. Just remember, removing the back of the guitar, may void the warranty, so I'd highly suggest going to the EA website for a replacement.
Compatability wise, the GH II & III guitars will work with Rock band, but the Rock band guitar will not work with either GH II or III, so instead of buying an extra Rock band guitar for playing bass, the GH II & III guitars work just fine. One problem may arise, if you purchase only the Rockband software, if planning on buying the Microphone, Drums or Guitar, they're not available until Feb. '08, with you ending up paying another $80.00 buying the hardware seperately. If you're planning on just playing Guitar, the GH II & III guitars are compatible with "SOLO," "CO-OP" or "LIVE"(online).
Another of the hot selling points is being able to download new material, not just being stuck playing the same songs over & over. As of yet, there's not many downloads available & if they are the cost is $6.99 for a block of 3. The same as GH III, having available downloads, GH III seems to have many more available & they are NOT compatible or interchangable with Rock band.
On the upside, Rock band is one of the best video games available, great graphics, surround sound, co-op playing with 3 other bandmates at home or online. As of now, I've played with people from 3 different countries & 22 states, making new friends as you play & scheduling your next practice/playing session.
It's a great game for the whole family, in my situation my 11 year old daughter & 14 year old son play along with me, their 50 year old Father or with many of their friends here or online. Each can play at their own skill level, be it easy, medium, hard or expert.
My advice would be call around to find the bundle that fits your gaming system, X Box 360, Wii or PS 2. They're out there to be sold, there may be some shortages in certain area's of the US, but it's the best $180.00 odd dollars I've spent for the whole family to enjoy.Read full review
