Let me first say - I am a Guitar Hero/Frets on Fire/Guitar Zero/Freetar Hero fanboy. Seriously.

When Guitar Hero 3 came out, I downloaded all the tracks onto Frets on Fire. I loved listening to the songs as much as I did playing them. The quality of the soundtrack is insanely good, compared to that of the previous installments that Harmonix was responsible for(which is one reason I may not get Rock Band, or at least, right off the bat).

Today, I got the chance to play the actual game. Eh...

My experience was less than optimal, though, don't get me wrong - I love the Gibson Les Paul controller. I love the venues, graphics, and the same awesome soundtrack. But the gameplay was... different. I didn't like the new HOPO system. While the media constantly pushed the idea that the HOPO system would be easier, it really isn't. The window has closed up a little tighter. I especially didn't like the new star power tilt either. I play a little tilted naturally, so I'm always activating star power too soon, or attacking my opponent while trying to free myself from the dreaded "whammy" power.

Speaking of the Guitar Battles, they aren't too fun either. Since you've got to finish off your opponent before the song ends, you don't get to enjoy playing the song by yourself. You have to pick up powers the same way you pick up starpower - you must hit a series of notes charged with the attack -which makes it very difficult to see which notes are tappable.

All that being said, Guitar Hero 3 was pretty fun. Neversoft, you done a great job.

Harmonix... I hope "Enter Sandman" and "Smells Like Teen Spirit" can save your game.