Unlike Guitar Hero band-specific-releases, this disk is all Beatles. It follows the history of the Beatles in various stages and settings. In some ways, it is a history lesson told in animation and picture montages between stages. But it is more for those how already know the story. For example, as you enter the Abbey Road chapter, there is an image of Candlestick Park and a ticket stub, but you are not told this was their last live concert ever. The songs in rest of the story start with the band members in the studio, so it is only implied. It is a beautiful game. Especially as you move into the psychedelic era. Game play is standard Rockband with a few minor “Beatles-mania” additions. The sound quality is awesome – I wonder if it uses the digitally re-mastered albums that released on the same day.
I started playing on drums (Easy) with El Mico on lead guitar (Expert) – both of us are Beatles fans. One funny thing happened near the end of our session that evening: the red pad on the drum kit quit working. This has happened before – it is a pain to re-solder the connection. But I did not want to stop to do that exercise again, so I played a couple songs pressing the CIRCLE button on the keypad with my finger and drumming with the stick in my other hand. It worked out just fine – though awkward.
I have not finished the story mode yet. I have unlocked some challenges and extras (like the Christmas album from 1960). The Beatles are very accessible to many generations – I will launch this game the next time company comes over.
I am really enjoying this “interactive documentary” of one of the best bands ever.
(Click the links in the story; it is worth your time.)
