Music and gaming have gone hand in hand ever since 1978, when Space Invaders was released. Since then, soundtracks and SFX have become a staple component in increasing the extent to which players become immersed in games. Some games even use music as an aid to achieving the player's objective, most notably in rhythm games, from PaRappa the Rapper to Geometry Dash to Metal: Hellsinger.
With both music and games being creative vocations, it is no wonder that music-based games are not few and far between. The following games allow players to choose, develop, and shape their career to make their way to the top as a rock star.
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10 Imagine: Rock Star
IGN Rating: 3.2
- Release: June 17, 2008
- Developer: Gevo Entertainment Pte Ltd
- Platform(s): Nintendo DS
Imagine: Rock Star is an installment of the Nintendo DS's Imagine game series. The player takes on the role of a band member/manager to perform and compete to gain popularity. A combination of a visual novel and a rhythm game, the player can make choices that alter the course of the band's future in between performing a range of songs.
This game is very accessible, utilizing character customization and offering a choice of instruments (guitar, keyboard, bass, or drums). There are also three difficulty levels, and an option of pop, rock, and funk genres for all kinds of gamers.
9 To Be On Top
Lemon64 Rating: 6.5
- Release: 1987
- Developer: Rainbow Arts Software GmbH
- Platform(s): Commodore 64, Atari ST
To Be On Top is a rhythm/adventure game, originally released for the Commodore 64. The player is tasked with creating a song to reach number one in the charts. Thrown into this overarching plot of rising to fame are a multitude of mini-games, such as avoiding dangers on the street, and 'catching' inspirations.
The player can compose their song by choosing between bass, accompaniment, and melody, before creating demo tracks, and gaining access to the studio. The side scroller pixel graphics have held up well. On an emulator this game still makes for a nostalgic experience, perfect for entry-level music producers or editors.
8 SingStar Rocks!
Metascore: 69
- Release: April 13, 2006
- Developer: London Studio
- Platform(s): PlayStation 2
SingStar Rocks! Is just one in London Studio's SingStar series. It is a karaoke-style game where the player uses SingStar USB microphones to sing along to the songs, which recognize singing pitch and timing to score each player according to their accuracy.
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There is also a multiplayer option where players can duet or compete, making it the perfect game for parties. With a range of tracks to sing along to, from Nirvana to Coldplay, players can try their hand at being a rock star in real life.
7 Choice Of The Rock Star
Google Play Score: 3.5
- Release: April 3, 2014
- Developer: Choice of Games
- Platform(s): Android, macOS, Microsoft Windows, Linux
Choice of the Rock Star is a visual novel game. Players are faced with scenarios with multiple choice responses, each shaping the sound of the band, the direction of their career, and the narrative itself.
Although this game is heavily text based, the storytelling is strong and provides a surprisingly immersive experience which encourages consideration and imagination. Choice of the Rock Star has interesting plotlines, including situations with bandmates, managers, and fans, making it a fun little multiple choice game.
6 Music Wars Rockstar
Google Play Score: 3.8
- Release: 27 September 2022
- Developer: Music Wars LLC
- Platform(s): Android, iOS
In Music Wars Rockstar, players can pursue a career in music. The aim of the game is to climb the charts by following trends and creating catchy new albums. In turn, they can increase their popularity worldwide, landing record deals and making money.
This is a great simulation game for those interested in the music industry, as players must simultaneously create or buy songs, book gigs, and manage their social media. With a choice of background stories, genres, and a skill points system, Music Wars Rockstar allows players the freedom to shape the future of their music career.
5 Brutal Legend
Metascore: 82
Brutal Legend
In Brutal Legend, the player takes on the role of Eddie Riggs, a roadie supporting "Kabbage Boy." He is thrust into the position of rock star when he is transported to a metal fantasy world after spilling blood on his amulet belt buckle during an accident at the show. The player must form an army to defeat the demon Doviculus.
A combination of RTS, shooting, and racing, Brutal Legend has versatile gameplay. Players can also use different guitars to play short solos that have special effects, such as "facemelter" and "shadow blast." This game is full of Easter eggs, from cameos to unlockable songs and concept art, making it great for heavy metal fans.
4 Guitar Hero 2
Metascore: 92
Guitar Hero II
- Released
- November 7, 2006
- Developer(s)
- Harmonix Music Systems
- Franchise
- Guitar Hero
- Genre(s)
- Rhythm
Guitar Hero 2 is a guitar rhythm game. From humble beginnings, playing at Battle of the Bands, to playing at the Harmonix Arena in career mode, the player can shred their way to rock star status, progressing by beating songs at each stage.
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With a selection of inspired avatars and real guitar models to choose from, Guitar Hero 2 is one of the most popular installments of the Guitar Hero franchise. There is also a range of extra songs available for purchase and download, from Queen to Trivium, offering something for the whole spectrum of rock enthusiasts.
3 Rock Band 3
Metascore: 93
- Release: October 26, 2010
- Developer: Harmonix
- Platform(s): PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Wii, Nintendo DS
The third installment of the Rock Band series, Rock Band 3 is a rhythm game with multiple instrument and difficulty options. It includes a "Battle of the Bands" mode, where players can create and take part in challenges, and a career mode with a range of different goals to achieve. It is also optionally multiplayer.
Unlike the previous games in the series, this one has the option of going "Pro," which offers an immersive experience by requiring the player to accurately use guitar frets and entire keyboards, rather than simply using the original five-button controller. With compatible keytars, microphones, and electric drum kits, Rock Band 3 is one of the most realistic rhythm games out there.
2 RockRobin
Itch.io Score: 4.7
- Release: May 1, 2016
- Developer: Happy Backwards
- Platform(s): macOS, Microsoft Windows, Linux
RockRobin is a visual novel-style band management simulator. The player takes on the role of Robin, forming her own band after being kicked out of her last one. They must then manage the band members, each with their own "music," "writing," and "star quality" stats, to gain popularity when they perform.
Players can customize their band's genre, merchandise, logo, and gear. Working alongside unique characters with their own backstories makes for a rich story mode, but there is also an open-ended mode for those who want a less linear experience.
1 Rising Star 2
Steam User Rating: 95%
Rising Star 2
- Released
- August 12, 2020
- Developer(s)
- Gilligames
- Platform(s)
- PC
- Genre(s)
- RPG, Simulation, Indie Games
Rising Star 2 is a simulation game where the player begins as a rookie musician. They must navigate the industry by networking with others in the scene and writing songs in order to acquire record deals and producers. Much of the appeal of this game lies in its intricacy and in-depth mechanics.
When designing their starting character, the player can alter most physical aspects, as well as choose "attitudes" that affect bandmate compatibility and the success of songs. They can also pick "aptitudes" like playing, writing, and business, which affect song/performance quality. The skill points system allows players to shape their character and career over time.