Rocksmith, the popular guitar learning video game, has left many enthusiasts wondering about its current status. With the last major update released in 2016, the question on everyone’s mind is: Is Rocksmith discontinued? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of Rocksmith, explore its evolution, and provide answers to the burning questions surrounding its discontinuation.
A Brief History of Rocksmith
Rocksmith, developed by Ubisoft San Francisco, was first released in 2011 for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 consoles. The game aimed to teach players how to play the guitar through interactive lessons and exercises, using a unique approach that departed from traditional music games. Instead of focusing on button-mashing, Rocksmith used real guitar tracks and encouraged players to use their own instruments, making it a more authentic learning experience.
The game received positive reviews and attracted a dedicated community, leading to the release of Rocksmith 2014, an updated version that included new features, songs, and improved gameplay. Over the years, Rocksmith has sold over 5 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling music games of all time.
What Happened to Rocksmith?
After the release of Rocksmith 2014, the game’s development and updates slowed down. The last major patch, titled “Rocksmith 2014 Edition Remastered,” was released in October 2016, which added support for the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One consoles. Since then, there have been no significant updates, leading many to speculate about the game’s discontinuation.
So, what happened? One reason for the slowdown could be the shift in Ubisoft’s priorities. The company has been focusing on other successful franchises, such as Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, and Just Dance, which may have drawn resources away from Rocksmith.
Another possible reason is the decline in sales and interest in music games in general. The market has become increasingly saturated, and the popularity of music games has waned in recent years. This trend may have led Ubisoft to reassess its investment in Rocksmith and allocate resources to more profitable projects.
The Fate of Rocksmith’s Online Features
One of the most significant concerns for Rocksmith enthusiasts is the status of the game’s online features. In 2020, Ubisoft announced that it would be discontinuing online support for Rocksmith 2014, including the game’s multiplayer mode, leaderboards, and downloadable content (DLC) store. This move sparked outrage among fans, who felt that the online features were an essential part of the Rocksmith experience.
While the online features are no longer available, the game’s offline mode remains functional, allowing players to continue learning and playing guitar without online connectivity. However, the lack of online support and DLC updates has limited the game’s growth and potential for new content.
The Impact on the Gaming and Music Communities
Rocksmith’s potential discontinuation has had a significant impact on both the gaming and music communities. For musicians, Rocksmith provided an accessible and engaging way to learn guitar, filling a gap in traditional music education. The game’s emphasis on playing real instruments helped to popularize guitar playing and attract new enthusiasts to the music world.
In the gaming community, Rocksmith’s innovative approach to music games set a new standard for interactive musical experiences. The game’s influence can be seen in other successful music titles, such as Guitar Hero Live and Yousician.
The Rise of Alternative Guitar Learning Platforms
In the absence of Rocksmith’s updates, alternative guitar learning platforms have emerged to fill the void. Services like Yousician, Fender Play, and Guitar Tricks have gained popularity, offering interactive lessons, exercises, and songs to help learners improve their guitar skills.
These platforms often provide a more comprehensive learning experience, with features like personalized lesson plans, progress tracking, and access to a vast song library. While they may not offer the same level of immersion as Rocksmith, they have become viable alternatives for those seeking to learn guitar.
Is Rocksmith Really Discontinued?
So, is Rocksmith discontinued? The answer is nuanced. While there have been no major updates or new releases in recent years, the game remains available for purchase on various platforms, including the Ubisoft Store, PlayStation Store, and Xbox Store.
In a statement to Polygon in 2020, an Ubisoft spokesperson said, “We are not actively developing new content for Rocksmith, but the game remains available for purchase and play.” This suggests that Rocksmith is not entirely discontinued, but rather, it has entered a state of dormancy.
The Future of Rocksmith
The fate of Rocksmith remains uncertain, but there are reasons to be hopeful. In 2020, Ubisoft filed a trademark application for “Rocksmith+,” sparking speculation about a potential sequel or reboot. While no official announcements have been made, the trademark filing suggests that Ubisoft may be considering reviving the franchise.
Additionally, the continued popularity of music games and the growing demand for interactive learning experiences could lead Ubisoft to revisit Rocksmith in the future.
The Legacy of Rocksmith
Regardless of its current status, Rocksmith has left an indelible mark on the gaming and music industries. The game’s innovative approach to music education has inspired a new generation of musicians and helped to popularize guitar playing.
As we look to the future, it’s essential to remember the impact Rocksmith has had on the gaming and music communities. Whether or not the franchise is revived, its legacy will continue to inspire and influence new musical experiences.
| Game Title | Release Year | Console Platforms |
|---|---|---|
| Rocksmith | 2011 | PS3, Xbox 360 |
| Rocksmith 2014 | 2013 | PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PC |
| Rocksmith 2014 Edition Remastered | 2016 | PS4, Xbox One, PC |
In conclusion, while Rocksmith may not be actively developed or updated, its impact on the gaming and music industries will be remembered for years to come. As we await news on the franchise’s future, we can appreciate the legacy of Rocksmith and the innovative approach it brought to music education.
What is Rocksmith?
Rocksmith is a music video game that aims to teach players how to play the guitar in a fun and engaging way. Unlike other music games that only focus on rhythm and button-mashing, Rocksmith actually teaches you how to play the guitar by using a real guitar as the controller. The game takes you through a series of lessons and exercises that help you develop your playing skills, from basic chords to more advanced techniques.
With Rocksmith, you don’t need to have any prior knowledge of playing the guitar to get started. The game begins with the basics, teaching you how to hold the guitar, tune it, and play simple chords. As you progress through the lessons, you’ll learn more complex techniques, such as strumming, picking, and playing melodies. The game also features a variety of songs to play along with, which helps to make the learning process more enjoyable and rewarding.
How does Rocksmith compare to traditional guitar lessons?
Rocksmith is often compared to traditional guitar lessons, and while it’s not a replacement for one-on-one instruction, it’s a great supplement to traditional lessons. The game provides a structured learning approach that’s easy to follow, and the interactive exercises help to make learning fun and engaging. Additionally, Rocksmith provides instant feedback on your playing, which helps you identify areas where you need to improve.
That being said, traditional guitar lessons do offer some benefits that Rocksmith can’t replicate. For example, a human teacher can provide personalized feedback and correct bad habits before they become ingrained. They can also help you develop your own style and sound, which is something that Rocksmith can’t replicate. Ultimately, Rocksmith is best used in conjunction with traditional lessons, as it provides a fun and interactive way to practice and reinforce the skills you’re learning.
What kind of guitar do I need to play Rocksmith?
To play Rocksmith, you’ll need a guitar that’s compatible with the game. The good news is that you can use a variety of guitars, including acoustic, electric, and bass guitars. The game is compatible with most standard guitars, as long as they have a standard 1/4-inch output jack. You’ll also need a cable to connect your guitar to your gaming console or computer.
It’s worth noting that the game doesn’t require a specific guitar, so you can use one you already have or purchase a new one specifically for playing Rocksmith. If you’re a beginner, you may want to consider investing in a guitar that’s designed for beginners, as they tend to be more affordable and easier to play.
Can I use Rocksmith to learn bass guitar?
Yes, Rocksmith can be used to learn bass guitar. The game includes a special bass mode that adapts the lessons and exercises to the bass guitar. You’ll learn how to play bass lines, chords, and melodies, and you’ll have access to a variety of bass-centric songs to play along with.
The bass mode is a great feature for those who want to learn bass, as it provides a structured approach to learning this instrument. The exercises and lessons are tailored to the bass guitar, which means you’ll learn the specific techniques and playing styles that are unique to this instrument. Additionally, the game’s feedback system helps you identify areas where you need to improve, which is especially useful for bass players.
How long does it take to see progress in Rocksmith?
The amount of time it takes to see progress in Rocksmith varies depending on how often you play and practice. Like any skill, learning to play the guitar takes time and effort, and the more you practice, the faster you’ll see progress. With consistent practice, you can expect to see noticeable improvements in your playing skills within a few weeks to a few months.
It’s also important to keep in mind that Rocksmith is a game, and it’s designed to be fun and engaging. The progress you make will be incremental, and it’s meant to be a journey, not a destination. The game is designed to keep you motivated and engaged, so even if you don’t see progress right away, you’ll still have fun playing and learning.
Is Rocksmith suitable for kids?
Yes, Rocksmith is suitable for kids, but it’s recommended for children aged 10 and up. The game is designed to be fun and engaging, and it’s a great way to introduce kids to the world of music and playing the guitar. The game’s lessons and exercises are structured in a way that’s easy for kids to follow, and the feedback system helps them identify areas where they need to improve.
However, it’s worth noting that kids may need some supervision and guidance when playing Rocksmith, especially if they’re beginners. The game can be challenging, especially for younger kids, and they may need help understanding the instructions or navigating the menus. With some guidance and support, Rocksmith can be a great way to introduce kids to the world of music and playing the guitar.
Is Rocksmith available on multiple platforms?
Yes, Rocksmith is available on multiple platforms, including PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, and PC. This means you can play Rocksmith on a variety of devices, whether it’s a gaming console or a computer. The game is also available as a digital download, which makes it easy to purchase and play without having to physically go to a store.
The game’s availability on multiple platforms is a great feature, as it means you can play Rocksmith on the device that’s most convenient for you. You can play on your TV with a gaming console, or you can play on your computer, using a controller or even just a keyboard. The game’s flexibility makes it easy to fit into your lifestyle and play whenever and wherever you want.