So chuffed is Microsoft that the Xbox 360 has Rock Band all to itself this summer that it's gone and created a Facebook application for the game.

Dubbed myRockBand, it enables users to create their own pretend band. They can pick their position, band name and band mates. Microsoft tells us, "Their friends can interact with the application and, just like a bonafide (sic) band, fans can action ‘scream 'you rock', ‘fling your knickers’, ‘show them rock horns’ and ‘crowd surf.‘ The critics amongst them can ‘boo the band’ or ‘put your fingers in your ears.’"

Additionally, other Facebook users who want to get in on the action can challenge any band member for their position, initiating a flash mini-game that requires players to memorise and then replicate a series of notes. If they score better than the existing band member, they're in. It's like if Ringo Starr could have replaced Pete Best in the Beatles using the internet. ie: pretty lame.

myRockBand has been developed by digitaloutlook, a web applications company.

"Want to immortalise your rocker moment? Then join myRockBand on Facebook to share in our real-world Xbox 360 Presents Rock Band Live events and loads of music stuff! It’s your Rock Band destination to share, explore and invite your girlfriend or mates – it’s just like the videogame but even better”, enthused Stephen McGill, head of gaming & entertainment, entertainment & devices division, UK.

Xbox 360 Presents Rock Band, so you know, is a series of events being held across the UK, France and Germany to pimp the 360 launch of Rock Band.

Mark SPOnG downloaded the application, but had to stop at the second stage because he didn't want anyone else to be in his band. Last time him and Jim (name changed for legal purposes) let someone else into A**s Mullet it all went to pot and they lost 40,000 fans. Jim isn't on Facebook.

While the application is pretty pointless, it marks a smart move on Microsoft's part to pimp its social networking and games-related products in one hit. Microsoft owns a 1.6% stake in Facebook as well as having an advertising partnership with it. Could Microsoft pursue a stronger gaming presence on Facebook, perhaps allowing certain titles to directly interact with the application? Give us your thoughts in the Forum.