Harmonix, the leading worldwide developer of music-based games, and MTV Games, part of Viacom’s MTV Networks, along with distribution partner Electronic Arts, announced today that the Rock Band Special Edition Bundle for the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system will ship to U.S. retail stores on Tuesday, December 18, 2007.

Developed in collaboration with Pi Studios, Rock Band for the PlayStation 2 system showcases many of the same challenging modes and rock music featured in the PLAYSTATION3 computer entertainment system and Xbox 360 video game entertainment system from Microsoft versions, including Band World Tour and Score Duel, which allows drum vs. drum, guitar vs. guitar and vocal vs. vocal play.

“Our team was honored to work side by side with Harmonix to create Rock Band for the PlayStation 2 and extremely proud of the result,” stated Robert Erwin, CEO of Pi Studios. “Together, we were able to deliver the addictive nature and brilliance of the core Rock Band gameplay while giving PS2 owners the ultimate rock experience just in time for the holidays.”

Rock Band invites players to interact with music like never before, challenging them to join a band and set out on tour – 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 for the PlayStation 2 system includes 58 tracks and spans every genre of rock ranging from alternative and classic rock to heavy metal and punk. 

The Rock Band Special Edition Bundle for the PlayStation 2 system features a wireless Fender Stratocaster guitar controller, an electronic drum kit, real drum sticks, a microphone and software and has a suggested retail price of $159.99.  Standalone Rock Band software for the PlayStation 2 system is also available for the suggested retail price of $49.99.  Rock Band for PlayStation 2 and PlayStation 3 use the same instruments so players do not need to buy new instruments if they upgrade their console.

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

Rock Band is also available on Xbox 360 and the PLAYSTATION 3 system in North America. Rock Band will ship to retail stores in Canada on December 20th for the Xbox 360 and the PLAYSTATION 3 system. Rock Band will ship in Europe for the Xbox 360, the PLAYSTATION 3 system and the PlayStation 2 system in the first quarter of 2008.

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

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