I do have a few reservations about LEGO Rock Band. The first is the load times. While the customizable practice space is cool, it adds another loading screen each time you want to buy a new vehicle, or hire a new manager. Perhaps the LEGO scenery is more taxing on the system than the generic Rock Band backgrounds, but in any event, the load times are considerably longer. The song list is short when compared to other games, too. This leads to some repetition on mystery set lists. The lack of online play is a detriment, as well, but is understandable. Worst of all, my favorite co-op friendly feature, reviving failed band mates, has been eliminated. The replacement mechanic lets players their way back in alone, which is less frustrating but does take away from the co-op feel.
I really wasn't expecting much more than a track pack from LEGO Rock Band. But there's a lot more to it than that. It's fully functional, kid-friendly, super-clean version of the Rock Band platform. It's compatible with "all ages" DLC you already own, and will be forward compatible as well. You can export the LEGO Rock Band songs to use them in previous Rock Band games if you wish. The included songs are generally excellent, and songs like "Ghostbusters", "Walkin' Sunshine", and "Crocodile Rock" are from genres that have largely been untapped in music games. The cute characters, collectable aspects, and always solid Rock Band gameplay make for a surprisingly pleasing experience, for the young and old.
Verdict
Co-Op Score
Overall
The Co-Op Experience: Jam out with your friends LEGO style, in a more "pop" version of the Rock Band franchise. Players use drums, guitar, bass or vocals to play.
Co-Optimus game reviews focus on the cooperative experience of a game, our final score graphic represents this experience along with an average score for the game overall. For an explanation of our scores please check our Review Score Explanation Guide.