Rock Band - someone school me!

[cyberswede]

So, I'm thinking of getting Rock Band (Wii) for the kiddos for x-mas. They're 8 and 10 and have both played the Beatles Rock Band at someone else's house.

My questions are:
Should I buy Rock Band, Rock Band II or Rock Band III?

I presume I can buy extra instruments down the road (e.g. the keyboard), but would then need RB III games, as they are the only ones that contain a keyboard track - is that right?

Thanks in advance - I'm lame when it comes to video games.

[LynneSin]

1. I have rock band II and love it, but without a doubt go with the best version out there

I would assume that Rock Band II discs would be compible with Rock Band III instruments. If that's the case go with III.

But ultimately I would buy what music your kids like the best. Rock Band II also has Green Day and Beatles comes with a special edition beatles kit. (looks like what Paul used)

[cyberswede]

3. Thanks! Gotta have Green Day! n/t

[Hong Kong Cavalier]

2. Rock Band 3.

Harmonix has rated the lyrics of the songs (generally) for various audiences, and you can see which songs may have "suggestive" lyrics. (There are no swear words in Rock Band songs, though.)

Also, Rock Band 3 will be compatible with the majority of songs in Rock Band, RB2, RB Lego, RB Green Day...(but not Beatles Rock Band: that's a whole different experience and they'd like to keep that separate than the standard Rock Band game)

The songs can be imported into your RB3 game for a small (usually $5-10) licensing fee if you own the game.

The keyboard for RB3 can be used as drums or guitar: there are color-coded keys and sections on the entire keyboard for such use.

Most (All?) downloadable songs from here on out will support keyboards (if there are keyboard parts in the song) and multiple singing tracks for 3-part harmonies.

Also, Rock Band 3 has "Pro" mode; the keyboard version is pretty much a trainer for learning to actually play a keyboard. As are the drums (with an addon cymbal pack).
The guitar pro mode requires one of two extra periphrials: a MIDI guitar that's out this month, or a specially made Squier Stratocaster guitar...an actual guitar with strings and a jack to plug into an amp. Harmonix hopes that this is the next step in musical rhythm games to get more kids into playing real instruments and learning how to play for real.

[cyberswede]

4. Thank you! Great advice.

I didn't realize the keyboard could be used as drums or guitar - that will be nice.

My 8 year old is taking piano lessons, and my 10 year old likes the play around on my acoustic guitar, so the "real" instrument idea sounds appealing for down the road.

I also didn't realize the Beatles RB is separate - that's the only version any of us have played (and I totally dominated! LOL!)

Thanks again!

[Hong Kong Cavalier]

5. If you purchase Rock Band 3, the instruments will be compatible all the way back to Rock Band

And Rock Band: The Beatles can be had for $30 or less now.

[taterguy]

6. You won't regret it

I hate to be a shill but it really is a great game.

We started with RB1 and later bought RB2 RB3 and Beatles.

You can buy some helpful accessories from music stores or pawn shops.

A mic stand will be worth it because if your kids play enough they'll get tired of holding the mic; and it lets advanced folks play guitar and sing at the same time.

A drum stool is also very helpful.

We don't have kids but our siblings love us because their kids can play a game that doesn't involve violence.

[blondeatlast]

7. It. Is. A. Big. Ol'. Blast.

Got it for my son (12) last year and I swear that his aunts and I have as much fun with it as he does. I'm planning on upgrading him to RB3, you betcha! (I'm repossessing that phrae in honor of my Medwestern parents, dammit!).

The best part? My son appreciates classic rock and soul now--and I've even begun to luvz me some Led Zeppelin!