The Beatles Rock Band Premium Bundle Standalone

[Fab4Bear]

I am a first generation Beatles' Fan, 58 years old. I have not been a gamer, but I am very excited about the new Beatles Rock Band Game coming out 09-09-09. I have read there is a "standalone" version. I don't have any of the other game hardware (Nintendo Wii, XBox 360, or Playstation 3) since I have not been a gamer. I'm trying to get on the "pre-order" list, but in all the searches I have done, I can't find a 9 digit number for a "standalone" version. I'm hopeful, and guessing that the standalone will include the hardware necessary to play the game? I hope I'm not going to have to buy a $600 :eek: piece of hardware to play the Beatles Rock Band game?
Can someone please help?
Email your response to: fab4bear@mindspring.com
Thank You for your help! :) I'm exasperated trying to find the item. :(

[Doc_SoCal]

Welcome to the Rockband Forums.

You will need a console to play.

A PS3 or XBOX360 would be your best choice.

In your case, I would suggest the PS3 due to the Blue Ray player so its more versatile as a home entertainment center addition.

[Death50]

Hi and welcome...

And nah, that's silly you don't need to buy a $600 system. They are a lot cheaper now and you can get used systems for cheap on Ebay.com

Check it out and shop around.

[Sayburr]

Good day,
I am only 43, but remember the Beatles well.

What I would suggest, since you have never bought a game system or the game before… and you plan on using the game system for The Beatles only is to buy the following:

System:
The Nintendo Wii is the cheapest, but weakest system and can be bought for $250 US. http://www.amazon.com/Wii-Nintendo/dp/B0009VXBAQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=videogames&qid=1241624918&sr=1-1

The problem with that system is the game will be offering downloadable content, in the form of extra songs in the future. To download those songs you will need a card to same the data to: SanDisc will run you an extra $50 to save your data.

If you would like to download more songs later, I would suggest getting an Xbox 360 for $299. http://www.amazon.com/Xbox-360-Console-60GB-Bonus-Games/dp/B001FPBZ3U/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=videogames&qid=1241625302&sr=1-2

The game system is more powerful than the Wii, so the graphics normally look better, plus there is a lot of room for additional songs.

Then you will need to order the game itself for $250 http://www.amazon.com/Beatles-Limited-Premium-Bundle-Xbox-360/dp/B001TOMQUS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=videogames&qid=1241625370&sr=1-2

Now you have the Game System (Xbox 360) for $300, and the game, drums, mic and a guitar for $250. total $550

Now, if you plan on ever playing with three others… that is how I game, you will need to pick up a second guitar controller

You can pick up a Beatles controller for $100 and can get a replica of either George’s or John’s guitar: http://www.amazon.com/Beatles-Wireless-Rickenbacker-Controller-Xbox-360/dp/B0028N13GC/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&s=videogames&qid=1241625515&sr=1-7

http://www.amazon.com/Beatles-Wireless-Gretsch-Controller-Xbox-360/dp/B0028NC8EI/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&s=videogames&qid=1241625515&sr=1-11

That will take the full band price up to $650

You can also use a regular RB2 guitar for $70 http://www.amazon.com/Beatles-Wireless-Gretsch-Controller-Xbox-360/dp/B0028NC8EI/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&s=videogames&qid=1241625515&sr=1-11


Bottom line:
System: $300
Bundle: $250
Guitar : $100

Total $650 plus tax…

[HazyCloud]

You can purchase a brand new Xbox 360 for $199 that has a small amount of internal storage for saving games. If you would like to download songs, you'll need a hard drive to store all of the songs. The Xbox 360 comes in 3 flavors. 256mb storage for 199, 60gb of storage for 299 and 120gb of storage for 399. If you are an entry level gamer and just want to rock out with The Beatles, grab the Xbox 360 arcade for 199. If you decide you want to download songs, you can always purchase the 60gb or 120gb hard drive separately.

EDIT* All of the above posts have some great info in them. Just look 'em over and decide what's best for your budget.

[Sayburr]

If you decide you want to download songs, you can always purchase the 60gb or 120gb hard drive separately.
Ack... didn't think of that... yeah, buy the $199 xbox and if you decide later you can buy the 60g hard drive for about $100.

[Neogoglu]

OUCH !

Hopefully, something good will come out from this thread,
not a console war again....

[murph]

the standalone version refers to just the game disc. it's for all the people who have a videogame console AND Rock Band equipment already.

you will need one of the game consoles first. i disagree with the prior recommendation of a PS3. it is the most expensive of the consoles, and i doubt you are interested in it's multimedia functions.

the Wii $250, or the Xbox 360 Arcade $199 would probably be your best choices. you would then need the RB: Beatles package for $250 which would give you the game, 1 guitar controller, 1 drum controller, 1 mic, and 1 mic stand.

[BStu78]

The cheapest way for you to get what you need to play the Beatles game would be...

$200: XBox 360 Arcade
$60: Rock Band Special Edition (cheapest price online)
$60: The Beatles: Rock Band stand-alone disc

This will give you drums, a guitar, and a microphone along with the original Rock Band game which features music by The Rolling Stones, David Bowie, The Who, and others. All for just $320.

Now, the instruments have been improved since the first game, so you might want to invest in the "The Beatles: Rock Band" Premium Bundle which will come with a guitar controller that is a replica of Paul's Hofner Bass along with the latest set drum controller detailed after Ringo's set, plus a microphone AND a mic stand. The guitar and drums will also be wireless, which won't be the case with the "Rock Band Special Edition" set. You'll definitely get better product that way, but it will raise the cost from $320 to $450. If you want a second guitar controller, I'd suggest a Rock Band 2 Wireless Guitar Controller. Its designed to look like a Fender Stratocaster with a sunburst design and sells for about $70. They are getting scarce for the XBox, though.

You might want to hold off, though, and see if they are going to announce any Downloadable content for the game. This is add-on content that you purchase online through your game console. If this is something you'd be interested in, you might want to investigate an XBox 360 or a PS3 that comes with a hard drive that you'd need to store the game files you purchased. You can upgrade the XBox 360 Arcade console, though, so that's an option there.

[onduvalst]

Let's see your 58, so your probably want something quality that multi tasks. I suggest a PS3, while others will complain about the cost, what they don't tell you is that if you bought a comparable xbox it would be more in price. Its ready to use right out of the box. It has a better quality record than the 360. It also can be used for Blu ray movies and has free online content you may be interested in. On ebay you can snipe one for around 300 dollars or sometimes less thanks to the economy. Also Pawn shops are a great hunting ground.

DON'T get a 360 at a pawn shop! It's very likely someone traded it in because it was RROD (broke).

Also I would assume you are not going to like violent first person shooters so game selection would be even on whatever console you chose. The PS3 has a lot of puzzle games like Sudoku and the controller has the ability to work like the Wii's. PS3 has a bowling game for 9.99 that works just like wii's bowling game.

I like the feel of the PS3 controller as well. You may want to go to a store and handle the controllers to see which is more comfortable. I as I age my hands cramp more and more.

We as older folks understand that you get what you pay for but sometimes our wallets hold us back so if the PS3 is not for you my second suggestion is the Wii. Fun family games, user friendly,and a good quality record.

[statboyinva]

I would also recommend the Playstation 3 because of its multimedia capabilities. I'm waiting for "Help!" and "A Hard Day's Night" to be released on BluRay, at which point I will just pop them into the PS3 and enjoy the extra features BluRay provides. At this time, the Wii and the XBox 360 do not have BluRay capability, and further financial investment would be required to add a BluRay player after the fact for those consoles.

[Xydako]

The cheapest way for you to get what you need to play the Beatles game would be...

$200: XBox 360 Arcade
$60: Rock Band Special Edition (cheapest price online)
$60: The Beatles: Rock Band stand-alone disc

This will give you drums, a guitar, and a microphone along with the original Rock Band game which features music by The Rolling Stones, David Bowie, The Who, and others. All for just $320.

Now, the instruments have been improved since the first game, so you might want to invest in the "The Beatles: Rock Band" Premium Bundle which will come with a guitar controller that is a replica of Paul's Hofner Bass along with the latest set drum controller detailed after Ringo's set, plus a microphone AND a mic stand. The guitar and drums will also be wireless, which won't be the case with the "Rock Band Special Edition" set. You'll definitely get better product that way, but it will raise the cost from $320 to $450. If you want a second guitar controller, I'd suggest a Rock Band 2 Wireless Guitar Controller. Its designed to look like a Fender Stratocaster with a sunburst design and sells for about $70. They are getting scarce for the XBox, though.

You might want to hold off, though, and see if they are going to announce any Downloadable content for the game. This is add-on content that you purchase online through your game console. If this is something you'd be interested in, you might want to investigate an XBox 360 or a PS3 that comes with a hard drive that you'd need to store the game files you purchased. You can upgrade the XBox 360 Arcade console, though, so that's an option there.

Best suggestion IMO

[onduvalst]

Oh yeah, you can get some amazing concerts on blu ray. A lot of classic rock too like, Led, Moody Blues, Alice Cooper, Deep Purple, The Who, Rolling Stones, Styx, Paul McCartney, AC/DC, Jimi Hendrix, etc etc

In my opinion that alone makes me love my PS3. :)

[murph]

Best suggestion IMO
+1

you PS3 fanboys are not reading the OP where he states he is an older non-gamer who just wants RB: Beatles without spending $600. he was even under the impression that the RB: Beatles "standalone" game would work without a console. i do not forsee this gentlemen needing BluRay, or checking Ebay for PS3 deals, or caring about DLC. BStu's suggestion of X360 Arcade+RB1+RB: Beatles disc will give him everything he needs for less than the price of a PS3.

[Die-Guitar-Hero]

Why are you all trying to sell him a Blu-ray player? Good God, I feel like I am at Best Buy or something. He made it clear all he wanted was the game.

[onduvalst]

+1

you PS3 fanboys are not reading the OP where he states he is an older non-gamer who just wants RB: Beatles without spending $600. he was even under the impression that the RB: Beatles "standalone" game would work without a console. i do not forsee this gentlemen needing BluRay, or checking Ebay for PS3 deals, or caring about DLC. BStu's suggestion of X360 Arcade+RB1+RB: Beatles disc will give him everything he needs for less than the price of a PS3.
How old are you? Why would someone want to blow 200 dollars on something that does just one thing and has no harddrive? PS3 is a multi tasker. I'm old I like things that do more than one thing! Plus I'm sure he doesn't want to deal with packing the 360 up and sending it in for repair when it RROD's or scratches his game all up. Plus its not 600 dollars for a PS3 its 399 just like the 360 Elite and just because he is 58 doesn't mean he doesn't know what ebay is, you ageist *****, He obviously has internet so I'm sure he can watch ebay and get a great deal on one. Plus he is obviously a fan of good music so the blu ray concerts would be an added benefit. Does the 360 have added benefits? No!

Your the fanboy, you came in here and posted just because you think the 360 is better. You just attacked those who didn't agree with you.:mad:


Cheaper is not always better but if he wants cheap and like you said doesn't care for DLC then he should get a Wii.

[Julio_Strikes_Back]

How old are you? Why would someone want to blow 200 dollars on something that does just one thing and has no harddrive?
Because the OP clearly stated all he wanted was to play the game.

[onduvalst]

Because the OP clearly stated all he wanted was to play the game.

Then he should buy a Wii.

[zeoavenger]

How old are you? Why would someone want to blow 200 dollars on something that does just one thing and has no harddrive? PS3 is a multi tasker. I'm old I like things that do more than one thing! Plus I'm sure he doesn't want to deal with packing the 360 up and sending it in for repair when it RROD's or scratches his game all up. Plus its not 600 dollars for a PS3 its 399 just like the 360 Elite and just because he is 58 doesn't mean he doesn't know what ebay is, you ageist *****, He obviously has internet so I'm sure he can watch ebay and get a great deal on one. Plus he is obviously a fan of good music so the blu ray concerts would be an added benefit. Does the 360 have added benefits? No!

Your the fanboy, you came in here and posted just because you think the 360 is better. You just attacked those who didn't agree with you.:mad:


Cheaper is not always better but if he wants cheap and like you said doesn't care for DLC then he should get a Wii.

Both of your ideas are dumb as hell.

PS3 is too expensive and buying a RB1 kit is ******ed because the instruments are garbage.

Wii = $250 and Xbox360 = $200. Which one is less?

[BStu78]

How old are you? Why would someone want to blow 200 dollars on something that does just one thing and has no harddrive? PS3 is a multi tasker. I'm old I like things that do more than one thing! Plus I'm sure he doesn't want to deal with packing the 360 up and sending it in for repair when it RROD's or scratches his game all up. Plus its not 600 dollars for a PS3 its 399 just like the 360 Elite and just because he is 58 doesn't mean he doesn't know what ebay is, you ageist *****, He obviously has internet so I'm sure he can watch ebay and get a great deal on one. Plus he is obviously a fan of good music so the blu ray concerts would be an added benefit. Does the 360 have added benefits? No!

Your the fanboy, you came in here and posted just because you think the 360 is better. You just attacked those who didn't agree with you.:mad:


Cheaper is not always better but if he wants cheap and like you said doesn't care for DLC then he should get a Wii.

I'm not a 360 fanboy. I have one, but a lot of it is frustrating and I do still plan on getting a PS3. I have a Wii, too. Fact is, though, Microsoft is the one marketing a simple console that just plays games. You may only want a console with a hard drive. I do, too. Someone who is buying a console just to play one game, though, might not really need it. Someone concerned about the price needed to play the game might want something more streamlined.

The cheapest way to play The Beatles: Rock Band is with an XBox 360 Arcade. And yes, you can get EVERYTHING you need to play the game for less than the cheapest PS3. You can get everything PLUS Rock Band 1 and 2 for less than the cheapest PS3. That doesn't mean that YOU might not have a good reason to prefer the PS3, but if cost is the primary concern, a console that costs twice as much as the cheapest console on the market just isn't the best option.

Die-Guitar-Hero is right, this feels like a big box store with everyone trying to upsell the guy.

[Daemius]

Why are you all trying to sell him a Blu-ray player? Good God, I feel like I am at Best Buy or something. He made it clear all he wanted was the game.

The Xbox guy threw out the fanboy insult first. As a neutral party, and I'm always the neutral party so obviously I'm infallible :D, I declare Microsoft fanboys at fault here :p

[Julio_Strikes_Back]

Then he should buy a Wii.

Wii's are more expensive than the low-storage 360s. And I'm sure the Wii version will be neutered in some way.

[onduvalst]

Both of your ideas are dumb as hell.

PS3 is too expensive and buying a RB1 kit is ******ed because the instruments are garbage.

Wii = $250 and Xbox360 = $200. Which one is less?

Again all your thinking about is price. The Wii is smaller and easier to use. It's WORTH the extra 50 bucks. You have to take worth in consideration as well not just cheap.

[Julio_Strikes_Back]

Again all your thinking about is price. The Wii is smaller and easier to use. It's WORTH the extra 50 bucks. You have to take worth in consideration as well not just cheap.

Wii games have low-grade graphics and games I'm sure a 58-year-old won't be interested in. All systems have their strengths and weaknesses that even out, so he might as well get the cheapest option, the 360 arcade.

[PCTraitor]

Yeah the OP asked for the absolute cheapest way to get into RB Beatles. Fact is that the xbox arcade is the cheapest. The OP did not ask for you to pitch him the PS3 as if you worked for Sony.

[zeoavenger]

Again all your thinking about is price. The Wii is smaller and easier to use. It's WORTH the extra 50 bucks. You have to take worth in consideration as well not just cheap.

I have both consoles and both are very easy to use. **** isn't rocket science.

[Death50]

PS2 anyone?

[Julio_Strikes_Back]

PS2 anyone?

It's not coming out for PS2.

[Daemius]

Yeah the OP asked for the absolute cheapest way to get into RB Beatles. Fact is that the xbox arcade is the cheapest. The OP did not ask for you to pitch him the PS3 as if you worked for Sony.

There was no pitching, she was simply listing off why you would want to invest more in a PS3. He may not know that game systems do other things than play games. I'm sure he likes to watch movies, maybe he didn't know he could a blu ray player that can play video games in addition to blu ray for cheaper than a friggin' blu ray player. You guys need to just chill.

[BStu78]

Again all your thinking about is price. The Wii is smaller and easier to use. It's WORTH the extra 50 bucks. You have to take worth in consideration as well not just cheap.

A Wii isn't easier to use than an XBox. It really isn't. Smaller, sure, but again the OP was concerned first with cost. There ARE reasons to prefer a Wii to a PS3 or 360. Cost is not a reason to prefer it the XBox, though, because the Arcade costs 20% less. All some people think about IS price. Which is fine. The XBox has the lowest buy-in price for current consoles. There are other factors to consider, but everyone's priorities are going to be different. Putting a high priority on affordability is perfectly reasonable and should be respected instead of insisting on trying to upsell someone.

[onduvalst]

Wii games have low-grade graphics and games I'm sure a 58-year-old won't be interested in. All systems have their strengths and weaknesses that even out, so he might as well get the cheapest option, the 360 arcade.

I'm sorry, I really don't care what he picks as long as he is happy, but I can not recommend a console that has such poor quality control issues and it's not just the rrod. The disc tray sucks as well, both the Wii and PS3 don't have this problem. I have had only one but I never play it. One friend has went through 6, yes 6 360's. Another 4 and just yesterday another friends RRODed. It's worth the extra 50 bucks for the Wii.


This is my last post in this thread, this shouldn't have become a debate.:(

[Ravaana]

I am a first generation Beatles' Fan, 58 years old. I have not been a gamer, but I am very excited about the new Beatles Rock Band Game coming out 09-09-09. I have read there is a "standalone" version. I don't have any of the other game hardware (Nintendo Wii, XBox 360, or Playstation 3) since I have not been a gamer. I'm trying to get on the "pre-order" list, but in all the searches I have done, I can't find a 9 digit number for a "standalone" version. I'm hopeful, and guessing that the standalone will include the hardware necessary to play the game? I hope I'm not going to have to buy a $600 :eek: piece of hardware to play the Beatles Rock Band game?
Can someone please help?
Email your response to: fab4bear@mindspring.com
Thank You for your help! :) I'm exasperated trying to find the item. :(

Honestly sir,

I think you should probably speak with the younger members of your family about this, instead of posting on the forums.

On these forums you will get people who are honestly trying to help you, and others who feel the need to turn it into a war between themselves. I am, by no means, saying that they are not trying to help. But disagreements online tend to jumble themselves into steady streams of curse words and immaturity.

Now, the reason I recommend asking your younger family members is quite simple. Whether they be your Grand children, nieces or nephews' children, or whatever; is because they will become interested. It may help build a bonding situation between you.

So, if I were in your situation, take into account of their ages as well.

If they are small, maybe less than teenagers, the Wii might be a better suited system for your needs. The Wii offers more family oriented games, and comes with quite a few that are actually fun. Wii sports has a friend of mine, his children, and his father all playing it continually. They love it, and it helps them bring their family closer. And with the lack of outright bloodshed, nudity, foul language, and many other things that we find on the 360/PS3 market; they have more control over what their children are exposed to at their house.

Teens, are a bit tricky and could go either way with the 360 or PS3. Sometimes Wii. But with these systems comes the addition of more violent and mature games. Granted, both of them have DvD player capabilities, which can be useful, but I assume that you already have a DvD player. And, at least with my Family, are pretty much used to switching between things to watch a movie or not. so, I don't know if that is a big deal or not.

As for the game itself, the cheapest way to obtain everything you need that I can think of has already been stated. Either Purchasing a Rock Band 1 bundle, as well as the Rock Band: Beatles disc; or maybe even the Rock Band 2 bundle. You could probably get away with purchasing one "instrument" controller, and the Beatles disc. But that could lead to problems if you have anyone come over and want to play with you.

I apologize if this just bring up more questions. Or if this confuses you any further. But, in my honest opinion, you would be better off asking those closer to you.

And not us, the random names without faces, on the internet.

I hope this helps a bit.

[Quastor]

Thank god this guy asked responses to be emailed to him, as there's a very low chance he'll come back to this thread. I'd hate for him to see the bickering and general crap that's exploded all over this thread.

Surprised this isn't locked yet.

[Sayburr]

Wow, how can such a simple question cause so much problem?

The cheapest way to play the game is:

Xbox Arcade - $200
Beatles Bundle - $250
Extra Guitar (Special Beatles) - $100

The newest Xboxes are supposed to eliminate the problem described above... time will tell if that is true or not.

[murph]

How old are you? Why would someone want to blow 200 dollars on something that does just one thing and has no harddrive?

[snip]

Your the fanboy, you came in here and posted just because you think the 360 is better. You just attacked those who didn't agree with you.:mad:

Settle down Beavis. Let's see...
- I'm in my 30's, so I am not the 14 year old kid you seem to think I am.
- I own a X360 and a PS3
- Back on page 1, I recommended the X360 or the Wii. I really could care less which this guy decides to buy
- Not a single person suggested the $399 X360 Elite. Everyone has suggested the $199 X360 Arcade for this guy
- Yes the PS3 is only $400. Add in $250 for RB:B and you're at $650 before tax, and still need a 2nd guitar.
- and while I will admit the whole RROD situation is a debacle, Microsoft has improved their system's reliability AND gives a very generous 3 year warranty to cover this issue.

[odd-props]

since the beatles game is not available for a few months I would hold off purchasing a console and wait for a good deal. Just last week dell was selling ps3 for $299.http://forums.slickdeals.net/showthread.php?sduid=486280&t=1316971

I think that will be the new ps3 price for all retailers in june or july. Will xbox lower their price again in response? Why not wait and see?

[Neogoglu]

OUCH !

Hopefully, something good will come out from this thread,
not a console war again....

I knew it !

[BStu78]

Wow, how can such a simple question cause so much problem?

The cheapest way to play the game is:

Xbox Arcade - $200
Beatles Bundle - $250
Extra Guitar (Special Beatles) - $100

The newest Xboxes are supposed to eliminate the problem described above... time will tell if that is true or not.

Not actually the cheapest way to play the game, though. :D So, not necessarily that simple of a question.

On the whole XBox question, I got mine last year after waiting out the problems, and its worked fine. I think some of the issue is with a high level of use, and I think its fair to think someone getting the console for a specific game isn't likely to play the XBox into an early grave even if the XBox has a heart condition to start with.

[nicko68]

Wow, some of the comments in this thread are incredible.

An SD card for the Wii does not cost $50. A 2GB card can be had for less than $20 now.

Wiis don't have games that would appeal to a 58 year old? Seriously? The Wii has broken into the audience of people over 35. And yes, the Wii is more expensive than the 360 Arcade, but it has built in wifi and a pack in game which is fun for non-gamers.

Will there be DLC for RB Beatles? A couple people mentioned DLC.

[Doc_SoCal]

Looks like the kiddie pool is full again...

Time to flush...

[blzbub74]

Also, keep in mind he's a big Beatles fan. He may in fact want the songs that come out as dlc. Therefore, the xbox arcade may not be the best choice.

All said, I think the wii is probably the best investment for him. And this is coming from a ps3 owner. Seriously, if he's not a gamer, why would he care that the graphics aren't quite as good? And if it turns out he likes the game, he'll be able to download the additional songs without having to spend an extra 100 on a hard drive.

I'm now ducking out of what is becoming an innane console war.

[BStu78]

Also, keep in mind he's a big Beatles fan. He may in fact want the songs that come out as dlc. Therefore, the xbox arcade may not be the best choice.

All said, I think the wii is probably the best investment for him. And this is coming from a ps3 owner. Seriously, if he's not a gamer, why would he care that the graphics aren't quite as good? And if it turns out he likes the game, he'll be able to download the additional songs without having to spend an extra 100 on a hard drive.

I'm now ducking out of what is becoming an innane console war.

You're assuming there will be DLC. I'm not sure that's been confirmed yet. Still, it would be a good reason to hold off. Console prices might go down between now and September, too. Really no rush on that and I'd highly suggest waiting to buy the console until he's ready to use it. Never know what sales or discounts might come along.

[GloiGloi]

I'm in a similar position to the OP (There's a lot of us out there, I promise you). Never underestimate the power of the Beatles to make the most unlikely people spend shedloads of money on them (nevermind the two box sets of remastered albums out in September too)
I've been trying to decide what to buy and I had been considering a Wii as I quite fancied the Wii fit/sports stuff, but I hadn't got round to buying one.
What do I lose in the way of graphics and other things if I bought the Wii instead of an Xbox/PS3? - or have either of these got something similar to the Wii fit package?
btw I already have a blu ray player as part of my home audio/cinema system.
-Please remember I know nothing about gaming equipment (unlike the Beatles, which I caould talk to you about for days)

[Sayburr]

I talked to the OP via e-mail. Big Beatles Fan. He plans on buying the bundle, both guitars, and both remixed Beatles releases on 09/09/09. He wants a game system that will not cost him a lot of money to play this game on exclusively.

I told him the best choices are the Wii and the 360 as far as price. I told him there are rumors of DLC so he will need storage if that is true. I told him with the storage, both systems cost close to the same with the Wii being slightly cheaper.

I then told him he would experience better graphics with the 360 or the PS3, plus the PS3 has a blue-ray player… he could care less about the player.

I believe he plans on getting the 360 with the 60gig HD… I might have also convinced him about how fun Rock Band itself is as I described game play to him and how much fun it is.

His next question was, “Are there any local clubs? Its going to take 4 to play!” I then told him about Karaoke in bars that are now using Rock Band as part of the night, he should search around. I also told him he could play on-line, but for the 360 it’s an extra $8 a month and on the PS3 its free… Not sure about the Wii, but he ruled it out anyway because of the graphics… but I told him there is nothing to compare to actually having three other people in the room playing with you, being online does not replicate that part of the game play.

Anyway, the choice is his, but I believe I was fair to all systems.

[Sayburr]

What do I lose in the way of graphics and other things if I bought the Wii instead of an Xbox/PS3? - or have either of these got something similar to the Wii fit package?

Neither the 360 or PS3 have anything like WiiFit. The 360 and PS3 are simply button pushing systems, you don't have the Wii remotes that track your body movements... that is the biggest plus with the Wii.

Rock Band does not use that feature, so if you are just talking about Rock Band, the interface with the game is the same. If you talking about a game like Bowling, there is no comparison with the Wii which tracks your movement and the way you twist and move.

As far as graphics?

Here is Eye of the Tiger for Wii:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V8NbpOio15o

Here is Eye of the Tiger for 360:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9m5D03LbN0c

Pay attention to the back ground graphic, that is what will be important for The Beatles. It just seems to me there is more detail in the 360 or in the PS3 than there is for the Wii... but it might not be enough of a difference for someone else to matter. Like I think vinyl albums sound better than CDs but to most people it doesn't matter.

[BIGFISH]

I'm in a similar position to the OP (There's a lot of us out there, I promise you). Never underestimate the power of the Beatles to make the most unlikely people spend shedloads of money on them (nevermind the two box sets of remastered albums out in September too)
I've been trying to decide what to buy and I had been considering a Wii as I quite fancied the Wii fit/sports stuff, but I hadn't got round to buying one.
What do I lose in the way of graphics and other things if I bought the Wii instead of an Xbox/PS3? - or have either of these got something similar to the Wii fit package?
btw I already have a blu ray player as part of my home audio/cinema system.
-Please remember I know nothing about gaming equipment (unlike the Beatles, which I caould talk to you about for days)

I'm sure you've read a bunch here already so i will point out some things not mentioned.

Yes the Wii graphics are inferior, but If you don't already own a gaming system you probably would never know it. Yes you will notice if you have them to compare side by side, but i wouldn't make this a deciding factor.

Not sure about instruments for the Wii version, but previous versions of instruments required wii controllers be inserted into them. This meaning additional cost if you plan on playing more than 1 player.

Xbox may require additional online adapter for online play if that is relevant.

Additional cabling if your TV is High Def and you want it to look good.

And surprisingly, I have not seen anyone mention what should be the biggest deciding factor. The likelihood that purchasing Beatles RB for a non-gamer may very well lead into a love of these types of music based rhythm games! And they should make their purchases accordingly. Go cheap as possible and you will probably be disappointed, or at least regret it later. My mother is almost 60 and i taught her how to play. She loves it! and loves playing it with her grandchildren.

I think maybe we should just tell everyone looking to get into rhythm games up front that this will probably not be a simple 400 dollar investment. A couple years ago i only intended to spend 180 dollars on rockband, as did many of us. We should ask ourselves how much we've spent since release?

In the end this will be a sizeable investment no matter which way you go, the difference in money between the big 3 will probably be the least of your concerns. If you are pinching pennies you shouldn't even be considering this. Research your options and choose what is best for you.

Wii is a great entry level game player and may provide you with more gaming entertainment than just the rockband series has to offer, such as Wii Fit, Wii Sports and others. Although I believe the Rockband experience is somewhat crippled by the Wii's processing power. Add in at least 1 more controller(likely required for the guitars) and a memory card and we're talking 300-350 dollars. But seriously look into the controller issue before purchase. If each instrument requires a separate Wiimote, that's an additional 120 dollars after the console purchase if you expect to play 4 players.

360 is more geared towards the hardcore gamer and that reflects in many of it's titles. It does have some nice online options, but at a monthly cost. and you can get one for 200 dollars, but that severely hamstrings the functionality of the unit with no hard drive. add in a hard drive and and wireless adapter and you are talking 400 dollars.

PS3 is a gaming unit and multimedia player with wireless internet connectivity right out of the box. Yes the cost for the initial unit will be a little more, but you won't be spending money to upgrade anything should you want to download content, and connect wirelessly. 400 dollars.

Of course this is all based on retail pricing and smart shoppers can do better on any of them. I own all 3 personally and based on what I am hearing from the Beatles fans looking to jump into this.... I would go with the PS3. You are already looking at a minimun 550 dollar investment if you went the cheapest route with stripped down options. That is for Beatles RB, extra guitar and cheapest console. Spend the extra 200 and rest assured you will not have to worry about anything when you decide you want more!

[Doc_SoCal]

I think maybe we should just tell everyone looking to get into rhythm games up front that this will probably not be a simple 400 dollar investment. A couple years ago i only intended to spend 180 dollars on rockband, as did many of us. Ask yourself how much you've spent since release?

Brilliant point.

I ended up with all three consles, an e-drum set and now a sound proof booth and a full on acoustic drum setup.

It all started with a plastic guitar...

Its a long and winding road... indeed..

[ryanco64]

I have 2 consoles now. ._.

[BIGFISH]

Brilliant point.

I ended up with all three consles, an e-drum set and now a sound proof booth and a full on acoustic drum setup.

It all started with a plastic guitar...

Its a long and winding road... indeed..

Wow. i was just talking about what I've spent on plastic intrument upgrades and DLC! Not to mention the monthly expense of throwing a Rockband kegger!

[Sayburr]

Not sure about instruments for the Wii version, but previous versions of instruments required wii controllers be inserted into them. This meaning additional cost if you plan on playing more than 1 player. The RB controllers do not require the use of a Wii controller.

Wii Amazon.com $250 (http://www.amazon.com/s/qid=1241707852/ref=sr_st?keywords=ps3+console&rs=468642&page=1&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Aps3+console%2Ci%3Avideogames%2Cn% 3A468642%2Cn%3A%2111846801&sort=salesrank) - Built in WiFi, includes one game (Wii Sports), no storage. Song storage requires SanDisc cards... 2Gig = $10, about 50 songs (http://www.amazon.com/SanDisk-Secure-Digital-Gaming-Memory/dp/B000M6DHA2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=videogames&qid=1241708009&sr=1-1). Swap out SanDiscs when one card is full, a lot of extra songs are expensive. I have 309 DLC, that would be 6 cards or $60. Graphics not quite as good as 360 or PS3.... Does NOT support HighDef or Dolby 5.1 sound... Does it cost to play on-line? Total = $310

PS3 $400 at Amazon.com (http://www.amazon.com/PlayStation-3-80GB/dp/B001COU9I6/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=videogames&qid=1241707858&sr=1-5) Includes Wi-FI, Has Bluray Player, Free on-line play. No game. 80 gig HD, about 1600 songs... Total =$400

Xbox 360 $300 at amazon.com (http://www.amazon.com/Xbox-360-Pro-60GB-Console/dp/B001BZ3PY6/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=videogames&qid=1241708562&sr=1-3) 60 Gig HD, about 1200 songs. Wi-Fi adapter $80 (http://www.amazon.com/Xbox-360-Wireless-Network-Adapter/dp/B000B6MLV4/ref=acc_glance_vg_ai_782_3_***), $8 per month to play online ($95 per year)... Total=$475

Looks like if you plan on playing on-line and buying additional songs, the Wii is the best deal. If you want convience with large hard drive and better graphic... looks like PS3 is the way to go.

If you never plan on playing on-line... 360 is the way to go.

The choice is yours...

[GloiGloi]

Thanks for everyone who has taken the time to reply.
I would expect to normally be playing with 2 players and I doubt if I would be playing on-line or wanting to build up a big library of other bands songs.
There was a big difference in the video quality between those two video clips shown and I think I really need to go somewhere and see the kit being demonstrated for real before I shell out my money. In most ways a Wii would probably be best for me because the sports type games are the only other things I would be likely to play as I have zero interest in shooting aliens, but I don't really want to compromise too much on the processing power/graphics.
I think a trip to a shop is in order to see for myself.

[BT67]

Also no one mentioned or the people acquiring about the Beatles is what kind of setup do you have? Are you running your home theatre setup through a surround sound system? Do you have a HDTV w/HDMI? Do you have a home network setup? Do you have a wireless network running?

The Wii, does not support HD, I beleive it does not support Dolby Digital (I maybe wrong on this, so someone correct me if I'm wrong), it does have wireless built in but I'm not sure about a wired connction though.

PS3 does support all of the above out of the box but you will need to purchase a component cable or HMDI cable to get HD, if you do not have wireless you will need to get a wireless router or run a wired cable to it. Online play is free.

The 360 supports HD out of the box (w/ HD cable) and wired ethernet connection or you can purchase the wireless adaptor for it (about $80+) plus they charge about $4.16 a day (yearly subscription is $50) to play online key word being "PLAY".

Just to add more to the conversation.....

[GloiGloi]

Also no one mentioned or the people acquiring about the Beatles is what kind of setup do you have? Are you running your home theatre setup through a surround sound system? Do you have a HDTV w/HDMI? Do you have a home network setup? Do you have a wireless network running?
.....

Sheesh, more to think about.
I have a 5.1 home theatre system with HDTV & HDMI and a wireless network.
I want good sound, if they are using the remastered tracks in the game it seems a shame not to take advantage of that.

[DMBillies]

I think the answer to this question is quite simple. No matter what your age...if you are not a gamer but have an HDTV and had been considering buying a blu-ray player, go with the PS3. If your only concern is legitimately getting into this game alone, then XBox and Wii are pretty comparable options in my opinion. That said, like it or not, the Wii has a lot more casual/non-gamer games that OP might like if he gives Wii Sports a try or starts playing with some of his younger family members.

No matter what, if you just want a gaming system, you are in $200 (Xbox with no real storage and no wireless...$100 more for a harddrive), $250 (Wii with no real storage but built in wireless...~$30 for SD card), or $399 (PS3 with 80Gb hdd, blu-ray, and wireless...).

So, basically comparing the PS3 and 360, you'd pay $100 more for a Blu-ray and wireless internet assuming a similar storage potential. As I see it, storage should be taken into account since I imagine the OP... willing to spend hundreds to play The Beatles... will definitely want to download songs IF DLC is an option for the game (who knows he may even go for some of The Who or other classics already available). Is the Blu-ray and wireless worth $100... depends on your situation. If he thinks he might like some of the Wii games or has younger kids who periodically hang out, the Wii will get him in and will allow limited storage for a minimal price... and allow him to easily buy that storage a little while after he drops a huge wad of cash on the system/game.

We simply don't know enough about this guys situation to make this call for him... so the flaming is crap.

One fact remains, after the console, the options for getting into RB are pretty much the same price/same options as far as I can tell. So, he can take that from this post. For the consoles... you can probably see internet forums are a bad place to ask about that.

[Sayburr]

The Wii, does not support HD, I beleive it does not support Dolby Digital (I maybe wrong on this, so someone correct me if I'm wrong), it does have wireless built in but I'm not sure about a wired connction though.
That is something I did not know...

[AndywinXp]

The Wii DOES support Dolby Digital :)
And it does support wired connection.

[BIGFISH]

Sheesh, more to think about.
I have a 5.1 home theatre system with HDTV & HDMI and a wireless network.
I want good sound, if they are using the remastered tracks in the game it seems a shame not to take advantage of that.

I know you aren't the original OP but since you are a concerned individual with the same issues...

The Wii will still look great on your HDTV but you should invest in some component cables for better bicture quality. You would have to buy special component cables as the Wii's connection is unique but it will look fine. Sound on the other hand, the PS3 will be better. You will also be able to load up a PS3's hard drive with mp3 files and use it as a stereo system in your living room. Also don't underestimate how much you will love playing the Beatles game. It may make you want to go pick up copies of RB1 and RB2 just to have a larger song library to play from. Of course with a PS3 an additional HDMI cable should be purchased for best picture quality. I definitely recommend visiting a shop and discussing your options. There are used stores such as Play N Trade that encourage you to try things in the store before you buy. I think in the end, your decision will come down to how important the other games on the Wii are to you. The Ps3 will definitely play your RockBand options better than the Wii will in my opinion. I think most will agree with me on that.

If you do consider a PS3 i know Sony used to run a promotion that if you applied for and received a Sony consumer credit card you could get 150 dollars off your 1st Sony Store purchase. Effectively getting a PS3 for 250 dollars. You could then just pay it off immediately and cancel the card. Check their website to verify the details if it is still going on, but that might be something to consider if you are leaning in that direction.

[BT67]

The Wii DOES support Dolby Digital :)
And it does support wired connection.

I don't remember seeing a port on the back and saw this on Wiki (I know but it was the first source I ran across)

* Compatible with optional USB 2.0 to Ethernet LAN adaptor

Does this mean it needs extra hardware to support wired?

[Jankee]

I don't remember seeing a port on the back and saw this on Wiki (I know but it was the first source I ran across)

* Compatible with optional USB 2.0 to Ethernet LAN adaptor

Does this mean it needs extra hardware to support wired?

Yes, you have to purchase the adapter and use a USB port. It has built in Wireless.