****** - Verified Buyer
4.5
The bad:Throws double stops and chords at you in 'learn a song' mode before training you on themBuilt-in tuner is suspect when compared to an external tunerOversensitive to intonation, under sensitive to rhythmRequires a lot of use of the xbox controller, so you're frequently switching between guitar and controllerComplicated symbology that takes a while to get used toSomewhat limited in very easy beginner songs. The easiest song, blitzkrieg bop, has a fairly frenetic pace even though it has simple notes/chordsRegisters plucked strings the same as hammer-ons, and can't be as critical as a real instructor in general due to platform limitations. The game also has limitations in reading bendsSome of the games have annoyingly long unskippable introsCord should be longer (I used a USB extension on mine)There are some drawbacks to the gamification--like causing you to be more concerned with points than with your soundThe good:Includes an arcade mode for gamified skill building drills, which is excellent. Who knew scales could be fun?Includes a lesson mode that teaches you new techniques, and evaluates your performance of themIncludes diverse songs to learnJam session mode to simulate practicing w/ a band, but I haven't really used it yetComes with the cable, which is all the hardware you need besides your guitarRhythm, lead, and bass guitar training in one game. Can simulate a 4-string bass with a 6-string guitarCan slow down segments to work through difficult portions of songsLarge catalog of available songs (for some $)Enormous capability to customize tonesKeep stats on your training (total hours, arcade time, learn a song time, etc)The gamification aspect keeps you motivated to practice and improve, and makes learning funNext best thing to a real life lesson, but for far cheaper - excellent bang for the buck