Amplitude

Amplitude (PS2, 2003) is Harmonix’s cult-classic rhythm game and the precursor to Rock Band. Instead of plastic guitars, you “scratch” and tap notes across a psychedelic audio grid, layering beats, basslines, and vocals in real-time to electronic and rock tracks. Its addictive, precision-demanding gameplay and killer soundtrack (with original songs by Freezepop and others) make it a musician’s rhythm game—though its high skill ceiling can intimidate casuals. A foundational title for music-game obsessives.