14 DAY TRIAL // Rock Band 4, the next rhythm-based music game from Harmonix, allows players to better express themselves and not just keep following the prompts on the screen in order to get the best score. What's more, these new moments are compatible with old and new songs in the new title.
The Rock Band series has offered a lot of different experiences over the years, as Harmonix has not only brought forth major releases, like the most recent Rock Band 3, but also collaborations with famous bands like The Beatles, so all sorts of music fans have reasons to enjoy the series.
After a rather lengthy hiatus during which rhythm-based games went on the decline, Harmonix is ready to bring back the series with Rock Band 4, which was confirmed earlier this year.
Rock Band 4 expands on previous titles
After having shared a few early details at that time concerning peripheral compatibility and support for DLC made for previous titles, Harmonix is now talking about the ways it's elevating the Rock Band experience with this fresh iteration.
First up, according to Rock Band 4 Product Manager Daniel Sussman, who talked with IGN, the studio has gone to great lengths to encourage personal expression amidst players, instead of just having them follow the prompts on the screen.
"Personal expression is one of those areas where, when you’re playing a song, regardless of one of those areas, the music doesn’t happen unless you play it," he says. "And giving people that sense of ownership of the song is really important, and it’s a huge part of the fantasy, and it’s one of the things you want to do as the spotlight’s on you. It’s your moment to do something, and it’s not just about execution, it’s about expression."
Examples of these new ways to encourage expression arrive when fans play the drums. The mid-song drum fills, which were freeform in previous games, are now randomly picked from a group of appropriate fills so that players can switch things up.
Those who perform on the vocals will enjoy the harmonies seen in The Beatles: Rock Band, as well as freeform melodies that just task fans with matching the tune in order to rack up points as usual.
Expect to hear some more details about Rock Band 4 as we get closer to its debut this fall for PS4 and Xbox One.