Concert tours have the option to provide minimal showmanship or pull out all the stops to create the ultimate concert experience. A set list is created for each tour. Finding the right mix of popular new songs along with some oldies but goodies is important to the success of the tour and any albums that may have been recently released by that act. The mechanisms controlling profitability of the tours are extremely well done. Companies can schedule each individual tour stop or can allow the system to auto-schedule the tour for those not interested in that level of micromanaging. Schedule the tour well in advance and it is relatively easy to have the choice of which locations to select for a tour. If the tour is schedule relatively close to the actual dates, many locations may be already scheduled and few options for tour stops may be available. PR dates with various media outlets can also enhance the fame of the act and stir up additional album sales.

An interactive mode gives a better idea of how well your acts are performing. Concerts and festivals can be ‘viewed’ by the owner. The viewing consists of a window that shows instant feedback on each song during the performance. The idea is for the owner to refine the set list to get the best songs in the performance. When the optimal set list is found, the reviewer and crowd impressions improve and create a public relations buzz around the act. Another great interactive feature is the music award shows. Each show has a host which announces award categories and nominees then proclaims the winner. The hard-working, deserving recipient gives a speech thanking the usual suspects before moving on to the next award.

As the business develops a steady profit base and a good variety of talented performers, the corporation options expand. Building a distribution office or a recording studio can provide extra income needed to boost the company to a higher level. Lack of hands-on control options is disappointing in regards to the further business aspects. Once a studio or distribution center is built, there is not much else to do.

The company is at the mercy of the game universe, which puts a high emphasis on the quality of the product being offered. Skimp on the quality of the product, and the business could lie dormant without any income. If money is spent to create a quality product, the overall business could end up burdened with monthly expenses that bankrupt the company. Perhaps more emphasis will be placed on this aspect of the game in future versions?

It should be mentioned that the game universe editing options are plentiful. All record labels, acts, festivals, and concert tours can be fully customized. Pictures of acts can be loaded to the game. Names of acts can be altered in addition to all of their talent ratings. Expect edited universes with pictures, real acts, and real record companies to emerge from the fan base for those that are interested in a real world game universe.

Music Wars: Rebirth has done a great job of bringing a tough but fair record industry simulation to the market. While certainly not a game for the casual gamer, there is a lot of depth in this game to provide a great challenge for business simulation fans. With some additions to the business model in regards to the distribution and recording studio and improved documentation, this game would probably have received a top rating. Even with those issues, it is still a welcome addition to the business simulation niche.

Questions or comments? We'd love to hear from you .