I actually started with the video game (Rocksmith), and I bought a cheap Epiphone just to play the game. I though it would be fun and maybe I'd learn very simple songs. But after 2 months I realized that I was a quick learner and I stopped playing the game and started practicing more seriously. Then I joined Guitar Tricks which has helped me a lot.
I don't play much rhythm, but I had all my basic chords and bar chords down after a few months.
Good luck!