LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - The makers of video game "Rock Band 2" said on Monday the sequel to last year's best-selling predecessor "Rock Band" will be released for the Xbox in September, months ahead of key rival "Guitar Hero."

Both games allow players to simulate being in a rock band by playing musical instruments.

"Rock Band 2" makers Harmonix Music Systems Inc, Electronic Arts Inc and MTV games, a unit of Viacom Inc, said the new version would include more instruments, a new soundtrack and an online community. Music downloads for the first "Rock Band" will be compatible with "Rock Band 2."

The game will be available initially for Microsoft Corp's Xbox, with versions for other game consoles released later in the year. Further details are expected to be revealed at the E3 video game conference in Los Angeles, July 14-17.

Since the first game's release last November, the "Rock Band" online music store has sold more than 15 million music downloads. Over 200 tracks are available.

"Rock Band" can be played with up to four people and includes a drum set, microphone, guitar and bass controllers. Players follow notes streamed on a television screen and earn points if they hit the notes on their instruments accurately.

Activision's new "Guitar Hero: World Tour" will be released during the upcoming Christmas season and include a drum set and microphone in addition to its guitar controller.

Reuters/Nielsen