Harmonix, the worldwide leading developer of music-based games, and MTV Games, a part of Viacom’s MTV Networks, along with distribution partner Electronic Arts, announced that the Rock Band Special Edition Bundle is now available at retail stores across America for the for Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system.

Rock Band is an all-new platform for music fans and gamers to interact with music like never before. The game challenges players to put together a band and tour for fame and fortune – all while learning to master lead/bass guitar, drums and vocals. Featuring the most master recordings of any music game ever by the world’s biggest rock artists, Rock Band includes 58 tracks and spans every genre of rock ranging from alternative and classic rock to heavy metal and punk.  With multiple instruments and an impressive selection of online and offline game modes to choose from, with the ability to play as a band or individually, Rock Band offers an infinite number of ways to play each song and live out your ultimate rock and roll fantasies.

In addition to the 58 songs available on the game disc, Harmonix and MTV Games are offering a stellar first line-up of new downloadable content available at launch to satiate the desire for constantly refreshed Rock Band content and enable players to customize their game experience. The robust download calendar includes multi-song packs, full albums and individual tracks from some of rock and roll’s biggest artists.

The Rock Band Special Edition Bundle (Xbox 360 and PLAYSTATION 3 system) features a Fender Stratocaster guitar controller, an electronic drum kit, real drum sticks, a microphone and software. The Xbox 360 bundle also comes with a USB hub for easy plug-in access for all instruments.  Standalone Rock Band software is also available which supports a variety of 3rd-party instrument peripherals as well as enables owners to share peripherals with those who own the Special Edition bundle.

Rock Band is rated “T” for Teen (lyrics, mild suggestive themes) by the ESRB.

As previously announced, Rock Band is slated for release on the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system on December 18, 2007 in North America. Rock Band will ship in Canada on December 17th for Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 and PlayStation 2. Rock Band will ship in Europe for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system and PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system in the first quarter of 2008.

EA is the exclusive distribution and marketing partner for Rock Band, managing distribution for the game in US, Europe and Australia. 

For more information on Rock Band and Harmonix Music Systems, please visit www.rockband.com and www.harmonixmusic.com.