The first details are emerging about Rock Band 2, and it looks like EA and Harmonix are doing a lot of things right with the sequel. This proves to be a welcomed change of pace from some of EA's other franchises (*cough*, *cough*, Madden).  It looks the game will be hitting the 360 this September, followed by the Wii, PS3, and PS2 versions "later in the year".

Quote:

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1. Better Hardware
According to Harmonix: "Quieter, more realistic, and more reliable instruments…"

2. Third Party Hardware
"We're also actively welcoming new peripheral makers to make instruments for our game. Just like real instruments, we want players to be able to choose what instruments they use…"

3. Backwards Compatibility
Songs you purchased for Rock Band will work for Rock Band 2. Future Rock Band songs will work for both games.

4. More Meaning
"We have several new modes that not only provide new ways for you to experience your music library, but also new ways for you to transition from Expert to real instruments…"

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Backwards compatibility is a huge plus, and to me a definite advantage over Guitar Hero IV. It's good to finally see the songs I buy not become a complete waste when I sell the old game to buy the sequel (I'm looking at you, Guitar Hero II). Plus, with the "quieter, more realistic, and reliable instruments" (read: We added a sunburst to the guitar.), I may actually spend more time playing my drums/guitar, and less time sending them in for repair. I'm sold.

Really though, more meaning? If Harmonix ever really wants to create a true parallel between the Rock Band guitar and the real guitar, they're gonna need a bit more than five buttons. But hey, I'll give them the benefit of the doubt with the "transition from Expert to real instruments…" thing. They did a pretty damn good job making the guitar look "real" this time around, so I suppose anything is possible.

Via [ Gizmodo ]