Rocksmith 2014 System Of A Down - Aerials -exclusive May 2026
Before you launch the track, understand what you are plugging in for. System Of A Down doesn’t play in standard E. For "Aerials," guitarist Daron Malakian utilizes Drop C Tuning.
"Aerials" by System of a Down is part of the System of a Down Song Pack Rocksmith 2014 , which also includes "Toxicity" and "B.Y.O.B." Song & Gameplay Details The song uses Availability:
Originally released on January 28, 2014, it is available for electric guitar and bass on Steam, Xbox Live, and PlayStation Network.
The track includes authentic tones specifically designed to match the band's sound. Difficulty/Style:
Players have noted the song features a fun, recognizable main riff that is repeated often, making it approachable yet engaging for various skill levels. Performance References
You can find various community playthroughs to see the chart in action: Lead Guitar: High-accuracy runs including a 98.1% Masterful Performance 100% Score Attack show the full arrangement. There are specific Bass DLC walkthroughs available for those looking to learn the rhythm section. Important Note on Delisting
Master System Of A Down’s "Aerials" on Rocksmith 2014 Since its release as part of the System of a Down Song Pack on January 28, 2014, "Aerials" has remained one of the most sought-after tracks for Rocksmith 2014 players. This hauntingly ethereal anthem offers a unique blend of melancholic arpeggios and crushing heavy metal riffs, making it a perfect study in dynamic range for guitarists and bassists alike. Overview of the System of a Down Pack
The "Aerials" DLC was launched alongside two other SOAD juggernauts: "Toxicity" "B.Y.O.B."
While originally available for individual purchase at $2.99 or as a bundle for $7.99, it is important to note that Rocksmith 2014 and its associated DLC were delisted from digital storefronts in late 2023 due to expiring music licenses. For those who already own it, the track remains a cornerstone of the library. Technical Breakdown: Drop C Mastery
To play "Aerials," you must tune your instrument to Drop C (C G C F A D). This low tuning is essential for achieving the heavy, "wobbly" resonance that defines Daron Malakian’s signature sound. Key Techniques Featured:
Clean Arpeggios: The intro and verses utilize clean arpeggiated picking sequences. These are often considered the most challenging parts of the song, requiring precise fingerstyle or pick control to maintain a "droning" effect while the bass line moves underneath.
Heavy Power Chords: The chorus and bridge sections shift into high-gain territory, using syncopated 16th-note strumming patterns and simplified power chords that leverage the Drop C tuning.
Dynamic Articulation: Players must master palm muting (P.M.) and "let ring" sections to capture the song's "waterfall" flow. Learning with Rocksmith 2014 Tools
Rocksmith 2014 provides several "exclusive" ways to master this complex track that traditional tabs cannot match:
The System of a Down "Aerials" track was officially released as downloadable content (DLC) for Rocksmith 2014 Rocksmith 2014 System Of A Down - Aerials -EXCLUSIVE
on January 28, 2014. It was featured in a three-song pack that also included the hits "Toxicity" and "B.Y.O.B.". While "Aerials" is widely known for its appearance in this pack, it is now considered an "exclusive" or "legacy" item because it has been delisted from most digital storefronts along with the game itself. Song Overview and Technical Details
"Aerials" is a metal anthem that provides a significant technical challenge for both guitarists and bassists in Rocksmith. Tuning: The song is played in Drop C tuning (
). This requires a significant drop in string tension compared to standard tuning, often necessitating a specialized setup or a "Drop Pedal" for players using lighter string gauges.
Authentic Tone: The DLC includes a custom-designed Authentic Tone that replicates the heavy, distorted sound and atmospheric qualities characteristic of System of a Down's original recording.
Gameplay Support: Like all official DLC, it features support for Lead, Rhythm, and Bass guitar tracks. Availability and Delisting
The availability of "Aerials" has changed significantly since its 2014 release:
System of a Down Song Pack Rocksmith 2014 , which features the hit "Aerials," was originally released on January 28, 2014. This official DLC pack brought three iconic SOAD tracks to the game, allowing players to learn both guitar and bass arrangements with custom-designed authentic tones. DLC Overview: System of a Down Pack
This pack is a must-have for fans looking to master the unique drop-tuning style of System of a Down. Included Tracks: : Known for its melodic atmosphere and heavy drop-C riffs. "Toxicity"
: Features fast-paced rhythmic changes and intricate picking. "B.Y.O.B."
: A high-energy challenge with technical riffs and shifting dynamics. Key Features: Authentic Tones:
Each song includes unique presets modeled after SOAD's studio sound. Full Instrumentation: Compatible with both electric guitar and bass. Note that SOAD frequently uses
tuning, which may require multiple "precision passes" in the Rocksmith tuner for stability. Availability & Delisting Update Due to expiring music licenses, Ubisoft began delisting Rocksmith 2014
and its associated DLC from digital storefronts (Steam, Xbox, PlayStation) starting in October 2023
Since the official lesson is lost media, here is the exclusive Riff Rehab practice plan based on the leaked difficulty scaling. Before you launch the track, understand what you
Week 1: The Octave Shuffle Set Rocksmith to "Riff Repeater" mode. Slow the intro verse to 50% speed.
Week 2: The Slide Accuracy The exclusive chart marks specific slides as "Legato." You cannot re-pick the note.
Week 3: The Chorus Transition The hardest part of the official chart is the mute before the beat.
Final Boss: The Outro (03:00) The solo is not fast; it is phrased. The exclusive difficulty map lists this at 95% difficulty only because of the use of Unnatural Harmonics at the 2nd fret on the A string. If you don't know how to pinch harmonic on a dropped tuning, you will fail.
Why is "Aerials" such a big deal? System Of A Down is notoriously difficult to license for interactive media. Unlike the aggressive, drop-tuned palm muting of "Toxicity," "Aerials" offers a rare dichotomy: a soft, arpeggiated verse colliding with a crushing, pentatonic-heavy chorus.
The leaked Rocksmith 2014 arrangement confirms that Ubisoft San Francisco had completed a 100% authentic transcription for Lead, Rhythm, and Bass paths before the license was pulled by the label at the 11th hour.
The Rocksmith 2014 System Of A Down - Aerials - EXCLUSIVE story is a tragedy of the digital music era. We came within weeks of having an officially transcribed, professionally mixed, game-ready version of one of the greatest alternative metal songs of the 2000s.
While Ubisoft has moved on to Rocksmith+ (the subscription model), the fans keep Rocksmith 2014 alive on life support. "Aerials" remains a white whale: a song that teaches you that the guitar doesn't have to be loud to be heavy, and that silence (or a perfectly executed rest) is the most difficult note to play.
Until the licensing hellscape collapses, keep the custom DLC community alive. Play loud. Drop tune low.
Have you found a copy of the leaked arrangement? Did you score 100% on the harder CDLC version? Sound off in the comments below.
Keywords: Rocksmith 2014, System Of A Down, Aerials, EXCLUSIVE, SOAD DLC, Rocksmith custom DLC, Drop C# tuning, Daron Malakian lesson.
Rocksmith 2014 System Of A Down - Aerials -EXCLUSIVE System of a Down has always been defined by their ability to blend frantic aggression with haunting, melodic beauty. No track exemplifies this duality better than Aerials, the closing masterpiece of their seminal 2001 album, Toxicity. For guitarists and bassists using Rocksmith 2014, mastering this track isn’t just about hitting notes; it is about capturing the atmospheric soul of Armenian-inspired alternative metal.
The exclusive Rocksmith 2014 experience for Aerials offers players a deep dive into Daron Malakian’s unique rhythmic sensibilities. To play this song correctly, you must first drop your tuning. The track utilizes Drop C tuning (C-G-C-F-A-D), a staple for the band that provides that signature low-end growl while allowing for open-string drones that are essential to the song’s Eastern-influenced melody.
The song begins with a clean, hypnotic arpeggio that requires precision and a light touch. Rocksmith’s Riff Repeater is an invaluable tool here, allowing you to slow down the tempo to ensure every note in the intro rings out clearly. The challenge in the opening section lies in the timing; the rhythm is fluid, almost breathing, and rushing the notes will strip the song of its tension. Week 2: The Slide Accuracy The exclusive chart
As the track transitions into the heavy choruses, the dynamic shift is massive. This is where the exclusive Rocksmith 2014 tone modeling shines. The software automatically switches your virtual rig from a crisp, chorused clean tone to a wall of high-gain distortion. Moving from the delicate plucking of the verse to the thundering power chords of the chorus provides a physical rush that few other songs in the Rocksmith library can match.
For bass players, Aerials is a masterclass in foundational playing. Shavo Odadjian’s bass line doesn’t just mimic the guitar; it provides a percussive heartbeat that drives the song forward. The syncopation between the kick drum and the bass notes in the mid-tempo sections requires a steady hand and a keen ear for the pocket.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the Aerials DLC is the "hidden" outro. In the original recording, the song transitions into a hidden track often referred to as Arto, featuring traditional Armenian instruments and chanting. While the Rocksmith arrangement focuses on the core instrumentation, the lingering echoes of the final chords provide a perfect moment to practice your sustain and vibrato techniques.
Whether you are a beginner looking to understand Drop C tuning or an advanced player wanting to perfect your dynamic control, the Rocksmith 2014 System Of A Down - Aerials -EXCLUSIVE pack is an essential addition to your digital library. It captures the essence of a modern metal classic and provides the tools necessary to perform it with the intensity it deserves. To help you master this System of a Down classic: Check your intonation before tuning down to Drop C.
Use Riff Repeater on the bridge section to nail the rapid tremolo picking.
Focus on the dynamic contrast between the verses and the chorus.
If you want to dive deeper into the technical side, let me know: Your current skill level (beginner, intermediate, or pro) If you need help with Drop C tuning stability Other System of a Down tracks you want to learn
The System of a Down Song Pack, featuring "Aerials" in Drop C tuning, was released for Rocksmith 2014 on January 28, 2014, including authentic tones and Riff Repeater support. Following a 10-year licensing term, this content was scheduled for delisting from digital storefronts on January 26, 2024, though it remains playable for existing owners. Read more at Hardcore Gamer ROCKSMITH 2014 LEAVING STORES - Ubisoft 23 Oct 2023 —
Rocksmith 2014 will be removed from all digital storefronts on October 23rd, 2023, with DLC packs and singles to follow over time.
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Rocksmith 2014 | System Of A Down - "Aerials" (Exclusive Playthrough) Option 3: Short & Punchy Aerials - System Of A Down [Rocksmith 2014 EXCLUSIVE] Option 4: Descriptive (Best for SEO/Search)
How to Play "Aerials" by System Of A Down on Rocksmith 2014 - Exclusive Full Song Preview
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As of my last knowledge update in October 2023, there is no official, platform-wide exclusive DLC track for Rocksmith 2014 titled System Of A Down – "Aerials" as a standalone exclusive. However, there is important context that might explain why you’ve seen this mentioned: