Music instrument/theory veterans have a great advantage here, especially in the pitch tests and conducting mode, and can probably just jump right in, though novices might want to hit the practice modes before big performances. These songs work well in an arrangement with the wide instrument base (60+). Unless you watch your music performances on video, you never really get to see yourself play. Wii Music incorporates the Mii avatars to let you view your performance as well as hear it. The visuals really help with the timing on percussion instruments while other challenging instruments just take time to master. Developers throw some entertaining musical elements into the mix such as dog barks/cat meows (with your Mii in costume), modified vocals, cheerleader, martial arts and game sound effects.
The game modes and mini/side games incorporate several multiplayer and online sharing options. The jam mode has quick or custom set-up with a great improvisation set allowing you isolated performances without background music. Quick jams randomly select a song to play while custom jams allow many options as you play with Tutes, AI band mates who fill in the gaps (five maximum and two minimum). The wide musician control options produce some creative scenarios. You can toot your own horn by overdubbing an entire song yourself by performing each part individually then recording it. Recorded jam videos include big screen background, environmental effect and camera angle options. You can save as many as 30 music videos and make favorite playlists.
The exciting online options let you broadcast your creations and share videos with other Wii Music owners who can then change your performance and send the altered video back. Re-arranging songs requires a lot of talent and time investment; developers wisely give players this option so experienced players/musicians can share some amazing hints and unique spins on the whole process. The online element has great possibilities. Developers should consider more life-related songs like “Bridal Chorus” in the future so players could send them to friends as a video greeting card or announcement (using future text options for lyrics and/or messages).
Article comments
1 - Geetune Music
What will they think of next? The sense of smell on the Wii, anyone?
2 - Selena
A great ingenuity comes from this gameplay.