Abstract: Described are methods, systems, apparatuses, computer program products embodied in a computer-readable storage medium and means for providing online challenges between bands in a musical video game. Typically the invention is executed on a game server in signal communication with a game platform and involves receiving, by the game server, musical game input data representing a musical performance of a band. Then, the game server calculates a composite score from the input data based on a gameplay challenge. Then the composite score is compared to a composite score of a second band's performance for the same gameplay challenge. In some embodiments, the comparison is displayed as a real-time representation of the two bands, even though score of the second band is based on a stored performance of the second band.

Abstract: Band members use their own performance during a song to reinstate a band member who has failed during the course of the song. Once a band member has failed, options are given to other members of the band who have achieved a predetermined bonus or performance level to save the fallen band member. Once saved, the failed member returns to normal play of the song. In this manner, failure still has the consequence of removing a player from a song at least temporarily, and perhaps permanently if bandmates are unable or unwilling to save the fallen member. However, by providing the option of reinstatement, band members can prevent their friends from long stretches of inactivity following a failure. This may have the added benefit of encouraging band members to perform strongly in order to be able to save their friends.

Abstract: Described are methods, systems, apparatuses, computer program products embodied in a computer-readable storage medium and means for providing online challenges between bands in a musical video game. Typically the invention is executed on a game server in signal communication with a game platform and involves receiving, by the game server, musical game input data representing a musical performance of a band. Then, the game server calculates a composite score from the input data based on a gameplay challenge. Then the composite score is compared to a composite score of a second band's performance for the same gameplay challenge. In some embodiments, the comparison is displayed as a real-time representation of the two bands, even though score of the second band is based on a stored performance of the second band.

Abstract: Band members use their own performance during a song to reinstate a band member who has failed during the course of the song. Once a band member has failed, options are given to other members of the band who have achieved a predetermined bonus or performance level to save the fallen band member. Once saved, the failed member returns to normal play of the song. In this manner, failure still has the consequence of removing a player from a song at least temporarily, and perhaps permanently if bandmates are unable or unwilling to save the fallen member. However, by providing the option of reinstatement, band members can prevent their friends from long stretches of inactivity following a failure. This may have the added benefit of encouraging band members to perform strongly in order to be able to save their friends.