Is this game a rockin', or should you never come a knockin?
BTW, BWT...
The first change that's obvious is the removal of solo mode - BWT was a brilliant system, but the people without a buddy around got stuck with the old GH method of unlocking songs. With BWT now open for everyone, it has a far more enjoyable way of rocking out, getting better gear, and unlocking the whopping 84-song collection(100 if you have internet access).
Making the Band
New additions to BWT include performing music videos(with gorgeous graphics), choosing the band promotion staff, to customize how many fans you get, or how much you'll be able to earn for each gig. They're not revolutionary ideas per se, but still add a little more flavor to the rock solid(GET IT?!?..... agh...) Tour mode.
IS THAT A CHALLENGE?!
For those looking for a better test of endurance, or a quicker way to unlock songs, challenge mode has been added, very similar to the Oni mode from the later DDR Arcade games. It proves a nice addition, providing a collection of nonstop setlists that offers rewards every now and then, from expensive Übergear, to super instruments. Challenge mode also has an important feature to save your songlist progress for later, especially handy if you're trying drums on expert, wink wink.
Tangled Up In 84 Songs
All of this pales in comparison to the highlight of Rock Band 2, the drastically improved soundtrack. As nice as the original soundtrack was, few parents, relatives, and random friends recognizd most of the songlist. This sequel manages to be the polar opposite - It's hard to resist AC/DC, Duran Duran, Metallica, Judas Priest, Modest Mouse, Bob Dylan, System of a Down, and on and on. Core players need not worry either, the difficulty for all instruments has been upped - Take a listen to Painkiller by Judas Priest... and PREPARE.
And the Answer Is...
As far as my reccomendation goes, if you liked the first Rock Band, you'll be dying for the sequel. Although they did miss a few missed opportunities like the music studio, there are too many improvements in all the right places - If you were yearning for the sequel, go ahead and get it.
-Vita
Extra Notes:
Performing the vocals for Master Exploder will probably break your voice, and/or cause your head to explode. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED.
The No fail mode prevents all saving, so make sure you turn it off before going into tour mode - That would be a nightmare after doing the endless setlist... agh.