Rock Band 4
Overview -
Harmonix began both the 'Guitar Hero' and 'Rock Band' franchises in the mid-2000s, which followed the Japanese 'Guitar Freaks' series. Both of the American franchises were wildly popular and led to so many sequels, spin-offs, and expansions that the gaming public eventually grew weary and the genre collapsed under its own weight. Until now there hadn’t been a full 'Rock Band' release for five years, but Harmonix has survived with their 'Dance Central' franchise and games like 'Disney’s Fantasia'.
With 'Rock Band 4,' Harmonix is flying without the backing of EA, and instead has Mad Catz for a publisher. 'Rock Band 4' is the series' debut on PS4 and Xbox One, and coming with it is a convoluted but lengthy amalgam of compatible instruments and DLC songs from yesteryear.
Video Review
'Rock Band 4' is not a graphics powerhouse, but it does run without too many problems. As mentioned, there is a calibration issue that I cannot work out, but as I have used this TV successfully with many rhythm games over the years, I have a sneaking suspicion that the fault lies in the legacy adapter. Perhaps the new instruments fare better.
Audio Review
With the exception of spin-offs like 'Lego Rock Band', this is one of the weaker soundtracks in the series canon. There are some famous bands on the billing, but their accompanying songs are often obscure. Others are overplayed 90s pop-rock that favor radio-readiness over musical or technical quality. Over half the soundtrack was recorded in the last couple of years - the classics are decidedly less represented. There are a few surprises, but in general I played much more of my old DLC than I did the soundtrack.
Final Thoughts
'Rock Band 4' feels more like digital-only game instead of a full release. I fully agree with Harmonix’ decision to make it a singular platform going forward, one that will be constantly updated with features and songs, instead of dumping a fully-priced release on consumers every fall. It is nostalgic and enjoyable, but not the great leap forward in rhythm gaming that we were hoping for.
