I didn't think Rock Band 3 could wow me at all. I was so very, very wrong.  And morally reprehensible.

Now, Rock Band 3 deserves a full preview on its own (and it will receive one later on next week), but even without saying a word on the new keyboard peripheral, it does more than enough to deserve an honorable mention. Not only does it include 3-part harmonies, easy drop-in and drop-out menus during play, 83 songs including Bohemian Rhapsody, and a persistent career mode where you will earn progress points no matter what mode you're in, but it has redefined realistic music games with its Pro mode.

Blake and I were already exceedingly skeptical on Rise of the Six String and its attempt to incorporate a real guitar in a game. Most people who play a game don't really care to learn the real thing; or else, they would be getting lessons. But with Pro mode, you can hone your skills for real without being forced to do so. For keyboard, that means striking the correct keys; for drums, hitting the cymbals when indicated; and for guitar and bass, strumming the six-string, amp-ready Fender Squier Stratocaster. Trust me when I say that if you can master expert on Pro guitar, you should no trouble playing the actual melodies and chords of the song (not just plain root chords).

I, for one, can't wait for the challenge. 

You should also check out Duke's exclusive Rock Band 3 interview.