Since I have started on my Rockstar energy reviewing, I have been regularly impressed with their flavors. They seem to go hard and heavy when it counts, so I was looking forward to this staple from Team Rockstar. This is one of those brands that have been around in stores since the start of the energy drink boom, and can be found anywhere and everywhere. Thing is, so is the much tastier and stronger Zero Carb flavor.

So why come out with a weaker, less cool and more bitter flavor? While I understand that this is is a decent product and probably a big seller just because it is everywhere – I still think this is like an automotive upgrade. If the ’08s are ok and the ’09s are better, the dealer should get the latest model. It is not like people are clamoring for the “classic” flavor of Rockstar diet – and it is not like the design is particularly collectible. SO while this will take you from point A to point B in a reasonable amount of time, the same company has a product for the same price which can get you there so fast your lips will get pinned to your earlobes.
BUZZ/Nutrition:7
Not a bad buzz – although it does not last that long. I got about 3 hours of awake and perky before needing to refresh my intake of energy drink. I did get a nice jitter going after I downed a serving quickly, getting 80mgs + a bit of guarana. This drink has the usual EDM, with the addition of gingo biloba leaf and milk thistle. Milk thistle has been used for stomach and appetite complaints, liver problems, gallbladder problems, and as an antidote to death cap (Amanita) mushroom poisoning. SO if you are going out mushroom hunting, I guess it would be safe to keep a can of this around?
I understand this is supposed to be like the original, only with sucralose. Still, I could not help hoping for a higher from it. With all the choices of Rockstar, I would go for bigger, longer, and stronger.

Taste:6
Reminds me of a non-alcoholic sparks. While not the worst energy drink I have had – I have had a lot better, ever from Rockstar itself. I was hoping for something very unique and refreshing, and unfortunately, the use of sucralose in here just did not kill the bitterness of the ingredients. I would definitely go for a Rockstar Zero Carb over the flavor of this one. Again, not bad, but with the same passion as the newer Rockstar flavors.

Packaging:5
Nothing too special here – white can and logo in gold. it is a little bling, but not enough to make you reach out for it. Their low card offering is much more pleasing. I get the whole sugar free can in white, but it is busy and uncoordinated, with golden locks framing the logo – overall they can and have done better than this. I do like that they are now listing their caffeine content – a smart move that I WISH monster would soon follow suit. They keep upgrading to slicker and prettier, but overall you can only do so much with gold on white