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Rock Band 3 Review

Rock Band 3 continues the evolution of the series, offering new instruments and modes of play that bring music closer than ever to reality

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One issue that has always hanged above the heads of fans that enjoy rhythm games is their relatives or friends telling them to go learn a real instrument instead. While the drums were always at least a respectable start in learning the real trade, the rest of the instruments resembled only the basics of playing the real thing. Enter the new “Pro” mode in Rock Band 3. With this mode, players are challenged to actually perform the music as it would be played on a real instrument, making it that much more difficult but also closer to reality than ever before. With drums, players will need to purchase the added cymbals kit, and can start playing realistic beats and practice as if on a real drum kit set. The keyboard that comes with the game also features a Pro mode, in which all keys are their own notes and songs can be played with 1 to 1 precision – since this is, after all, a real MIDI keyboard. With keyboard and bass, things get complicated with a whole new controller. Instead of five colored buttons, there will be 6 buttons across 17 different frets, for a total of 102 buttons on the guitar. Players are tasked with hitting the frets, approaching close to what it is like playing the real instrument.
 
Rock Band 3
 
Undoubtedly, the Pro Mode is a great evolutionary step forward for the whole genre, but it certainly comes at a price. With the Pro guitars retailing at well over $100, owning the latest Rock Band 3 tech definitely costs a fortune. Considering that the players will already spend $120 on the game and the keyboard, plus (if needed) the whole instrument set from previous Rock Band games, RB3 is the most costly entry in the series yet, especially for new players. Sure, in technical terms all of the peripherals are worth their production cost, but there is a lot of ongoing debate if players may as well take up a real instrument, instead of spending over $200 to get the best that Rock Band 3 has to offer. Again, because of the high costs and limited availability, the “Pro” grade instruments were not tested and are not included in the scope of this review.
 
Rock Band 3 continues to involve the series with a mix of new additions to the gameplay that make it an easier and more personal experience. From new sorting options, to the fully customized band, to the over 2000 songs readily available – music fans can’t go wrong. The new Pro mode is a step forward for the whole genre, and the possibilities now are truly endless – though it all comes at a cost that is beginning to run too steep, particularly for the uninitiated. As it is, Rock Band 3 is sure to please all existing fans with its host of new gameplay features and improvements, as well as general ease of use. But for those just entering the scene, prepare to spend a fair amount of cash if you’re looking for the full experience.

Our ratings for Rock Band 3 on PlayStation 3 out of 100 (Ratings FAQ)
Presentation
82
The game's visuals remain stylish and clean, while the menu and navigation have been revamped for easier use.
Gameplay
87
The addition of the keyboard expands the series in a new direction, while the Pro modes and instruments - while rather costly - evolve the whole genre.
Single Player
80
The game is still aimed at group play, but there is still enough to do on your own, like perfecting songs or trying to learn an actual instrument.
Multiplayer
90
Still at the core of the experience, playing with a full band of friends is as fun as it's ever been.
Performance
85
The game runs well overall, though a few crashes were encountered.
Overall
83
Rock Band 3 is everything that fans could want, and a standout experience on its own. While it's a costly entry point for newcomers, those who take the plunge will be rewarded with a great musical experience.
Comments
Rock Band 3
Rock Band 3 box art Platform:
PlayStation 3
Our Review of Rock Band 3
83%
Great
The Verdict:
Game Ranking
Rock Band 3 is ranked #295 out of 1957 total reviewed games. It is ranked #32 out of 103 games reviewed in 2010.
295. Rock Band 3
296. Rock Band 3
Xbox 360
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Screenshots

Rock Band 3
9 images added Oct 25, 2010 20:15
Videos
Rock Band 3 - Keyboard trailer
Posted: Oct 12, 2010 02:58
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