GameSpot editors' review
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CNET editors' rating:
stars
Good
Detailed editors' rating
- Reviewed on: 12/22/2008
- Released on: 11/02/2008
- Originally published on GameSpot: AC/DC Live: Rock Band Track Pack (Xbox 360) Review
Rock groups don't get much bigger than AC/DC. The Australian hard-rock act has churned out 17 studio albums over 30 years, including one of the highest-selling albums of all time, Back in Black. With that kind of success, it's a no-brainer that Harmonix signed the Thunder From Down Under for an exclusive game all to themselves, following the inclusion of "Let There Be Rock" in Rock Band 2. However, though the songs on AC/DC Live sound and feel amazing to play, with only 18 songs (the setlist from the band's famous Live at Donington DVD), no special features, and fewer modes than either Rock Band or Rock Band 2, this game feels very much like a dirty deed done dirt cheap.
Angus' new suit proved less popular than his classic schoolboy uniform.
Despite bearing the name and soundtrack of AC/DC's feted Donington Park gig, the game provides no visual indications that it has anything to do with either the band or the venue. While you're playing, the screen is simply graced with generic Rock Band band members playing a generic stage. Since there are no Brian Johnson, Angus Young, or Malcolm Young character models to be seen, the only indicator you're playing an AC/DC game is the band's iconic sound.
However, you do get some bang for your buck. The game sells for a budget price of '24.99 in the UK, or $29.92 exclusively at Wal-Mart in the US, and the tracklist should keep any AC/DC fan happy. It comes as no surprise that the audio quality is again top-notch, with the game receiving a remastered overhaul of the Live in Donington concert. Rock Band doesn't get much better than being able to rock out to classics such as "You Shook Me All Night Long," "Back in Black," "Thunderstruck," "Highway to Hell," and "For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)." Regardless of whether you're assigned to lead guitar, vocals, drums, or bass, the result should be a wide grin on your face. The highlight for many fans will no doubt be playing some classic guitar riffs as Angus, although if you're up for some screaming, Brian Johnson's vocal part is also a pleasurable--albeit raspy--experience. Brilliant beats and self-indulgent drum fills make fan-favourite tracks like "T.N.T." and "Thunderstruck" must-plays and provide a truly visceral drumming experience.
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AC/DC Live: Rock Band Track Pack (Xbox 360):
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