Rock Band 2 perfects every fault in the last game, and even adds several new modes to unleash your inner rock star.

User Rating: 9 | Rock Band 2 X360
Rock Band propelled the music genre in games from simple guitar strumming to a great multiplayer party. And with over 80 songs on the disc, and over 200 downloadable songs, it's apparant just how much content there really is. The question here is, does the sequel make enough improvements on the last one to garner a purchase?

The answer here is yes, and there's no doubt that Harmonix did all they could for their sequel. There are 84 songs on the disc itself. Not only that, but you can actually export 55 out of 58 of the songs from the first game to play on Rock Band 2, so there's no need for swapping discs. All of your downloads from the first installment are also forward compatable for Rock Band 2, so once again, there's no need to swap discs.

There are also several new online modes, including Battle of the Bands, where your band can compete with another one online. Other than new clothes and band customization, Rock Band 2 goes with the 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it' approach. If you liked the first one, you would definitely enjoy the sequel, since not much of the gameplay has been dramatically changed. And if you already own the first game, all it costs you is 60 bucks to get started with your rocking.

The game adds a Drum Trainer mode as well, which really is what will catch the newer players', and even more experienced drummers' eyes. This mode has a Beat Trainer, Fill Trainer and Freestyle Mode, each of which are excellent additions to the game. Beat Trainer is all about keeping simple beats for a certain period of time, Fill Trainer teaches players how to create simple and complex fills that don't cause their friends' ears to bleed, and Freestyle Mode allows you to jam freely on tons of different kits. It adds a lot more depth than you would think.

Rock Band 2 doesn't make huge steps as far as new content, but in a way, that's a good thing. All the key gameplay elements are still there, and nothing has changed. The massive library of songs and all types of new customization options will keep your band playing to the last venue. And with Guitar Hero on the horizon, only time will tell if Rock Band's enormous song list will win the battle, or if the GHTunes service will. For now, Rock Band 2 earns its place in the hearts of rock aficionados everywhere, and even to those new to the music genre.