One of the biggest gaming crazes to hit store shelves is Rock Band. Bigger, more elaborate, and more exciting than Guitar Hero, Rock Band gives you the whole band experience right in your living room…or online. But what is there to know about Rock Band?

What is Rock Band ?

Rock Band is a music/rhythm game. Using instrument peripherals, players can simulate performing in a real rock band by playing their instruments alongside hit songs. The game features single player and multiplayer modes for up to four people, as well as online multiplayer in the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions.

What consoles is this game available on?

Rock Band is available for the Xbox 360 , PlayStation 3, and PlayStation 2. It is also due to come out for the Wii in the near future.

What comes with Rock Band when I purchase it?

The traditional Special Edition comes with one copy of the game, one guitar , one microphone , one drum set , and a USB hub to have all of your instruments plugged in.

Can I purchase everything individually?

Yes. Everything is sold separately as well.

How do I play the game?

The game operates similarly to Guitar Hero . A line of notes comes down the screen, each one colored and corresponding to a colored button on your instrument. When the notes reach a certain point, you must press the corresponding button (hit it with a drumstick for drums, press the button and use the strum bar with guitar and bass). For vocals, players must sing along with the song and match the pitch of the vocals.

Can I use my Guitar Hero guitars with Rock Band?

With the exception of the PlayStation 3, yes. Xbox 360’s Guitar Hero II and III guitars will work, PlayStation 2’s Guitar Hero I, II, and III guitars all work with Rock Band. Currently, the PlayStation 3 version is the only one that does not support Guitar Hero instruments.

Can I use my guitar with the Guitar Hero games?

No, all Rock Band guitars are for use with Rock Band only.

Are the instruments wired, or wireless?

The Special Edition instruments all feature wired, USB-based controllers. However, the guitars that are available separately are wireless for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

Can I use any USB microphone for the singing?

Yes, any USB microphone works for this game.

Can I download songs for use in the game?

Both Xbox Live and the PlayStation Network add an average of three songs every week for use in the game. Prices are roughly $2 a song, or $5.50 for a three pack. The PlayStation 2 version does not offer downloadable content.

Can I upload and use my own songs for the game?

No. The process of having a song for use in the game is an extremely complicated process and would be practically impossible in the game.

How many people can play the game, and does it feature online play?

Up to four people can play: guitar, vocals, bass, and drums. Online play for up to the same amount of people is available on the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions.

Can each person choose their own difficulty level in multiplayer?

Yes. To make the experience best suited for beginners as well as pros, everyone can choose their own difficulty for multiplayer.

Do I have to play with other people?

Nope. A single player option is available for both quick play as well as career mode. However, most consider the game to be at its best with two or more players.

If I just want the game, no instruments, can I play with a controller?

Aside from vocals, yes you can. However, it is considered by many to be not only difficult and clunky, but defeating the purpose of the game.

Does the game support alternative control schemes for left-handed people?

As with the Guitar Hero series, there is a lefty switch available.

Just a note about the writer of this guide/review:

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