Harmonix announces Rock Band 2

Harmonix has announced that it will be releasing Rock Band 2 as a timed exclusive to Xbox 360 in September, with other platforms to follow later on.

However, PS3 users needn't feel too disgruntled. Probably one of the most interesting features about the new game will be the cross-compatible downloadable songs. This means PS3 users can download Rock Band 2 songs and play them on the original version and vice versa.

Apparently there are some "cool new features" to come that will allow you to play your downloaded content in "different ways", but what that is remains to be seen.

Your existing peripherals will work with the sequel, but just in an attempt to cash in that little bit more, Harmonix and MTV will be offering updated ones that are "more realistic and reliable".

The existing peripherals will work with the sequel and you would bloody hope so too, but Harmonix and MTV will be offering updated peripherals that are "more realistic and reliable".

No word yet on the songlist but the people at Harmonix assure us its the "strongest playlist" they've ever assembled.

"Rock Band 2 takes all the lessons we've learned from making a multi-instrument music game, addresses them, then adds some amazing new ways for you to experience your music library that have never been seen in a music game before," said Dan Teasdale, lead designer.

"We've been scouring forums and parties everywhere for what people liked and didn't like, and I'm pretty confident we've addressed everything I've heard people ask for."