How to Play Expert on Guitar Hero 3

Step up your skill level and make the jump to Expert in Guitar Hero 3. Playing Guitar Hero 3 on Expert can be more enjoyable because the notes match up to the song that is being played. This gives you the illusion that you are actually playing the song with a real guitar.

Instructions

1. Master the Easy and Medium levels. Earn at least an 85 to 90 percent grade before attempting to play Expert. Transitioning from Medium to Hard is much more difficult than it is going from Hard to Expert. Pass every song with a 90 percent grade or a majority of songs on Hard before making the transition to Expert.

2. Practice shifting your fingers over one button to reach the orange button. Using the orange button is the most difficult aspect of Hard. Expert just uses it more often. Use all of your fingers. Reach the orange button by placing your index finger on the red button, middle finger on the yellow button, ring finger on the blue button and pinkie on the orange button.

3. Choose the easiest Expert-level songs such as "Cherry Pie" and "Heart-Shaped Box." Attempting the hardest songs on Expert will only leave you feeling more frustrated. Play these songs until you get a passing grade that is in the 80s. They never get boring. Raise your guitar to earn Star Power if you find that you are on the brink of failing.

4. Learn how to hammer-on. A hammer-on is when you don't have to strum a note. Hammer onto notes that have a black ring around them. To hammer-on, simply press down on the buttons with your fingers without strumming. This is especially helpful for fast solos.

5. Use alternate picking rather than down picking. The notes on Expert match up exactly to the song. Alternate picking will make your hand feel less tired, and it will help you develop rhythm. Developing a sense of rhythm is essential to being able to play songs on Expert. Tap your foot and listen to the drums and bass as you play along.

Tips & Warnings

• Play with a bassist. Teaming up with friend is another way to prevent you from failing. The points he earns will keep your game alive much longer because the bass lines are easier. Play in Practice mode if you find that one part of a song is particularly difficult. Practice playing the solo over and over again until it is mastered.