11 Local Multiplayer Gems That Built Gaming Communities

6. Rock Band: Building (and Breaking) Local Legends

When Rock Band landed in living rooms, it transformed regular hangouts into epic performances. Suddenly, gamers and non-gamers alike were forming makeshift bands, grabbing plastic guitars, drums, and microphones, and living out their stadium headliner dreams. The secret sauce: playing together, not just side by side. Even the shyest friend might grab a mic for their favorite song, while competitive drummers chase high scores with rock-solid timing. It's a bonding ritual, a party ritual, and sometimes even a friendly rivalry over who gets to be the frontperson. Weekend jam sessions became the highlight of countless social calendars, setting the stage for in-jokes, running gags, and spontaneous dance-offs. While the peripherals may be harder to find these days, the memories—and the music—live on, making Rock Band an icon of community gaming.