Electronic Arts and Harmonix has succeeded in delivering Rock Band in time for the craaazy Thanksgiving weekend rush in the U.S.  Considering the documented misgivings both EA and certain early adopters had over some bundles being sold early, we can assume the copies hitting store shelves today are indeed EA-certified.

EA's challenger to Guitar Hero has the backing of GH's former developer (oh, and MTV), but Rock Band is still expected to face an uphill battle if it wants to beat the game which is putting Activision well into the black.  GH already enjoys signifigant market and mind share.  On top of that, Rock Band will have a higher cost of entry for gamers, including longtime Guitar Hero fans.  While they may already have a guitar controller compatible with all Guitar Hero releases, everyone at this point in time will be starting from scratch with Rock Band; remember that Rock Band will also require more peripherals for the different instruments.

That said, Rock Band is certainly not without anticipation.  Demand will mean the title will become a chase item at retail in its own right.  Indeed, EA is not confident stores will be able to keep the game in stock for quite some time.