Rock Band

Holiday shopping fervor has already infected the American mindset. Among the hottest commodities of the year will be two video games: "Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock" and "Rock Band".

"Guitar Hero III" came out last month and made $115 million in the first week alone. "Rock Band" is poised to come out this Tuesday, Nov 20th. Both games are developed by Harmonix Music Systems, based in Massachusetts.


prices at bestbuy:
"Rock Band" (with microphone, guitar, and drums): $169.99
"Guitar Hero III" (with guitar): $99.99

check out a demonstration of "Rock Band" at this year's E3 video game convention

Personally I detest these games, especially as they are being cranked out in fast food quantities these days. They are thinly-veiled marketing vehicles.

But most importantly, I've played both games and I have to say neither is as fun as playing the actual instruments. I would encourage prospective buyers to re-consider, and instead drop $100 on a cheapo guitar.