14 DAY TRIAL // The music game market is a very tough one, with the two main competitors, Activision Blizzard's Guitar Hero and Harmonix's Rock Band doing whatever it takes to be number one. Except the battles for songs and albums to come exclusively to their games, they also venture out in creating customized experiences based on world famous bands. Guitar Hero attempted this with Aerosmith and Metallica, so Harmonix wasn't going to just stand around and do nothing. Rumors have been going around that a special project based on AC/DC is in development by the developer. With no news whether it will be a special game or just a DLC (Downloadable Content) pack, fans were left to wonder and fantasize on the presumed project.
But no more, as the New York Times has reported that MTV, the publisher of the game, would be making an announcement in which the AD/DC Live: Rock Band Track Pack would be unveiled. The pack will most likely contain tracks recorded from their recent Castle Donington Show and is part of a global campaign made by the band's record company. As a special venture, this pack will be available only in the Wal-Mart stores, in future exclusive AC/DC areas where besides this content, albums and merchandising related to the famous band will be on display.
Van Toffler from MTV shared his thoughts on the move, “They rock hard, and that still works for our audience. It comes down to getting really great marketing, because Wal-Mart is so meaningful in terms of sales if they get behind something”.
Also, Steve Barnett from Columbia Records, the company which promotes AC/DC declared that “If you want to be a physical band, you better make an alliance with a strong physical retailer. It’s a great way to sell the new album, the catalog, the game, merchandise and DVDs”.
The pack will be available for all consoles in November with prices starting from 30 dollars. It will consist of 18 tracks, which will supposedly by playable in both Rock Band and its sequel. Until then, AC/DC fans can just listen to some old tracks of their favorites and play the air guitar.