‘Rock Band 2’

‘Rock Band 2’

(MTV) for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Wii, PS2

Genre: Party; Rating: T

Grade: A

I love me some “Guitar Hero,” but at some point the folks over at Activision are going to have to make some serious upgrades in order to compete with the “Rock Band” franchise. As far as party games are concerned, there is nothing more invigorating and equally hilarious than getting some friends together and jamming out.

Not much has changed from the first “Rock Band” game to the sequel, but the improvements made are noticeable and duly welcome.

Most important is that the learning curve has been dramatically scaled down. Instead of sounding like a 3-year-old banging on the drums, more tutorials and even a “no-fail” feature allow you to thrash without fear of being so easily embarrassed.

A much deeper track list helps give “Rock Band 2” increased replay value, though you need to enjoy all sorts of music in order to get the most out of it. Some of the tracks are certainly not “rockers” by any stretch, and so before you get all riled up over 80-plus songs, prepare yourself for some duds.

The singing can be a little tricky this time around also, since most of the bands will sound familiar. But the tracks being used are more obscure, so instantly recalling the lyrics can be challenging.

The best feature by far is being able to rock out online with others. Now you don’t have to be ashamed when doing your Eddie Vedder or Jack Black impersonation.

‘NHL 09’

(EA Sports) for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC, PS2

Genre: Sports; Rating: E

Grade: A

I can fully admit to having all but given up on hockey after the strike wiped out the entire 2004-05 season. My Chicago Blackhawks jersey has not been worn in ages, and the new scoring rules meant even bad teams cold pull off wins without much effort.

Slowly, however, I have begun to pay more attention. I have not yet attended any games, but maybe this season will be different. One thing is for sure: “NHL 09” has me thinking that hockey can be fun again.

While EA Sports has done its best to ride the status quo with its football and basketball titles, it truly has done some amazing work with its hockey franchise. Not many know it because hockey doesn’t haul in legions of gamers. But if they were to give it a chance, they would find a compelling and addictive sports game.

The game’s success lies particularly in its smart AI. More realistic strategy on the ice is required, so no longer are you just button-mashing your way down the ice and slamming home wrist shots. The game also looks amazing, and there are lots of options to suck you in long after you think you are done playing.

Here’s hoping that EA can start melding some of its new techniques into its other sports franchises, because then EA would be playing with power. In the meantime, I think I will dust off that No. 4 Blackhawks jersey.

‘NHL 2K9’

(2K Sports) for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Wii, PS2

Genre: Sports; Rating: E

Grade: C+

It is wonderful having both hockey franchises be released just shy of the beginning of hockey season, but what leaves you feeling cold is when one far outpaces the other. In “NHL 2K9’s” case, more of the same means more time playing EA’s version instead.

Now, there is something to say for casual gamers being able to quickly pick up “2K9,” lace them up and go for the net. Its control scheme is much easier to grasp and nonhockey fans will enjoy that beginner’s experience. But beyond that, you do get the sense that “NHL 2K9” is frozen in an earlier time.

The graphics just are not as advanced as they should be. The modes of play don’t seem to have progressed, either. I will admit to laughing at the Zamboni race feature, but is that enough to buy this game? Probably not.

Two tiers definitely exist in the hockey realm this year, so choose wisely or be left disappointed.

— Chris Campbell