Constructive criticism from the band actually was instrumental in pushing for many of the improvements noted an Activision representative. Chief among those criticisms was a stiff learning curve that has been toned down to for greater accessibility. While it was noticeable easier to play through the opening acts than the tough-as-nails tracks of Guitar Hero III, the Aerosmith tunes still offered up a considerable challenge. We’ll have to wait and see if the songs are too easy in the final game.

The graphical update and slate of new songs sets the game apart from being a lackluster expansion, but it's difficult not to imagine the availability of these tracks as downloadable content for Guitar Hero III. Unfortunately, that is unlikely to occur despite the potential for that form of reaching an audience hungry for new tracks. The only way of jamming to the dozens of new songs will be to pick up the game when it launches later this month. Both standalone copies and bundles with a guitar will be available on Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Wii, and PlayStation 2.

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