Rock Band 2 Adds 'Bandmate' Custom Figures, Merchandising

Rock Band 2 developer Harmonix has opened a new section of its game's official site allowing players to order custom merchandise based on their in-game bands -- including 6-inch figurines of individual bandmates. The figurines, manufactured by Z Corporation, are automatically generated by 3D printers and are promised to feature the same clothing and instruments with which they are equipped in the player's game. Harmonix claims the not-insubstantial $69 going rate is "nearly half the price of other made-to-order figurines." (Similar products themed around Blizzard's World of Warcraft run $130 each.) Also available are less-exorbitant items such as photographs, stickers, shirts, and posters, all emblazoned with custom text and imagery drawn from players' Rock Band characters and bands. Says Harmonix art director Ryan Lesser, "Just like with real bands, Rock Band bands need their own schwag too." The website notes that the custom merchandise is available only for Rock Band 2 on Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.