2008

Rock Band 2

FROM: MTV Games/Electronic Arts

BEHIND THE MUSIC: Retools and enhances celebrated features, (like its predecessor's jack-of-all-trades musical mentality, Internet readiness and stellar song library). Highlights include individualized character creation complete with the ability to buy posters and figurines featuring your fictional group; competitive Battle of the Bands scenarios; signature tracks like Bob Dylan's "Tangled Up in Blue" and debut Chinese Democracy cut "Shackler's Revenge"; revamped controllers (sorry, cymbals cost extra); and compatibility with previously-purchased songs.

WHY IT ROCKS: Expanded virtual touring options, an exclusive appearance by AC/DC, added multiplayer thrills and a constant stream of weekly contests and album/track expansions are sure to resonate with enthusiastic admirers. Most significantly, carries the torch for a new generation of music-based titles, and, given heated competition with Activision's MVP (prompting the need to instantly wow spectators) promises relationship-ending excuses aplenty, and months of productivity-crushing thrills.

• View all games