Rock RevolutionWii

Konami is arguably the originator of the ‘rhythm action’ genre, with ground-breaking titles such as the ever-popular Dancing Stage series, plus classic music-themed titles as Karaoke Stage, Beatmania and Guitar Freaks.

The publisher has now returned to the genre it pioneered with the most advanced music title for any format, with Rock Revolution boasting the most authentic drum kit imaginable, while bass and lead guitar accessories are also supported. The game has been designed and honed by real musicians, and features a wealth of innovative single-player and multi-player modes.

Rock Revolution for PLAYSTATION®3 and Xbox 360 showcases a wide-ranging set list with more than 40 tracks, wherein players are charged with matching on-screen instructions with the corresponding action on their instrument. Players can compete on and offline using one of 15 realistic avatars, while co-operative modes and band competitions up the ante as groups take on like-minded friends in a true battle of the bands. Alternatively, a ‘Rehearsal’ mode allows users to practice their favourite tracks, while a stunning ‘Studio’ mode allows users to freeform their own tracks and record them on the game’s exhaustive multi-track studio.

Konami has also ensured that the various versions of Rock Revolution are bespoke to their host format. The Wii game, for example, allows for Air Guitar and Air Drum play via the Wii Remote and Nunchuk controllers, while the motion-sensitive nature of the hardware can also reward the user for rock star-like behavior in pulling off scissor kicks or instrument abuse during the course of a performance. Up to four players are also supported in the game’s many multi-player options.

Likewise, the DS allows users to choose their instrument and use stylus gestures to match the on-screen instructions for the 20 tracks on offer. This system is also used to perform the aforementioned on stage moves, while the DS game also has customisable venues where props such as fireworks and laser shows can be unlocked to wow the crowd.