Harmonix looks beyond Rock Band
Not attempting to become Behind the Music fodder two months after their incoming success, Harmonix is already looking forward to life after Rock Band and keeping their eyes on the prize. Speaking with Next-Gen, Studio Lead Alex Rigopulos says they want to expand the music genre, noting that there are "other instruments that we haven't touched yet" (like cowbell) and more music genres to explore. Harmonix is also playing around with allowing players to make their own music, with Rigopulos labeling his games as "performance simulations." The developer is currently considering "freestyle and creative elements" for future titles.
On a related note, he doesn't consider the $170 price tag expensive if you think of Rock Band as a platform with longevity. According to Rigopulos, the game itself will be available separately at launch, allowing people to pool their money with friends for the bundle (remember, this holiday there is only the bundle) and exchanging instruments to play solo. The man also discounts those whining about fake instruments -- apparently, Harmonix has heard anecdotes about games like Guitar Hero inspiring people to get real guitar lessons. All we know is that it's only a matter of time before an actual Real Guitar Hero gets made. Sure, it'd be expensive, but the potential is clearly there -- for profit.
