Guitar Hero In Store Display Democracy Guide

Three games will most likely dominate the in store displays at Best Buy and WalMart this holiday season. Rock Band 2 was released September 14th and Guitar Hero World Tour was released October 26th. Guitar Hero on Tour: Decades will be released November 16th. Establishing a Guitar Hero democracy among a gathering of friends, whether at someone’s home or at the local tavern, is no easy task. Establishing a Guitar Hero democracy in the midst of an electronics super store or a shopping mecca is almost impossible. So with a Rock Band synthesized drum roll, I unveil the Guitar Hero In Store Display Democracy Guide.

Age Is Not A Factor. Whether you are 70 or 7 do not be afraid to step up to the plate and take your turn at virtual rock stardom. If you are a bystander in the crowd, do not judge a player by their cover. I have seen an eight year old rip a twenty-something to shreds playing guitar on “Satch Boogie” and watched a baby boomer who could have schooled Alex Van Halen himself on the game version of “Hot For Teacher”.

“Satch Boogie” footage on YouTube.com“Hot For Teacher” footage on YouTube.com

Take Turns. The mantra that we have heard since we were one holds true in a Guitar Hero democracy. First come, first serve is the standard for establishment of turns. Once you have played your song, if someone is in line behind you who obviously “has next” hand the controller over. If your onlookers have not established a visible line of players, turn around and ask if someone else wants to play. When someone steps forward hand the controller over. If no one is up to the challenge go ahead and play another song and repeat the process. If you have completed three songs and no one wants control of the game, set the controller down and walk away from the gaming area. Upon returning to the gaming area after two to three minutes, if no one else has started playing you can resume play. If someone else is playing take your place at the back of the line. Don’t be a bogart!

Song Failed. If you fail the song before 25% completion you are allowed one retry. If you fail the song after 25% completion your turn is over. Refer to “Take Turns”.

Song Difficulty. Player difficulty is completely up to the player whose turn it is. Play within your comfort level, now is not the time to try ramping up from easy to expert level.

Monday Morning Quarterbacking. If the player makes obvious mistakes or does not activate star power when you think they should it is NOT up to you to coach them. If a player is on their way to virtual stardom do not distract them with your play by play commentary. Keep your comments and your hands to yourself.