Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Fender's Rock Band 3 Squier Stratocaster guitar rocks out March 1, 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/fender-rock-band-3-squier-stratocaster-guitar-rocks-out-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/fender-rock-band-3-squier-stratocaster-guitar-rocks-out-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/fender-rock-band-3-squier-stratocaster-guitar-rocks-out-march/#comments Fender has finally announced when its Squier Stratocaster guitar, the one built and licensed for Rock Band 3, will be available and, more importantly, how much it will cost prospective rockers. The guitar is expected to be released on March 1, 2011 for $280 (with pre-orders beginning January 1). The Strat certainly isn't cheap, but it's competitively priced in the world of electric guitars.

It is an actual guitar, after all, as opposed to the 102-button Mustang controller from Mad Catz, and the Squier is expected to provide a greater level of realism to RB3's Pro Mode. In addition to teaching players some real rock chops, Fender's guitar can also be plugged into an amp and, like the Mustang, serves as a fully functional MIDI instrument.

It's worth reiterating that Mad Catz's $40 MIDI PRO-Adapter is required to use the Squier with RB3. And it should also be noted that the Squier can't be used to play the game's standard modes, meaning you'll have to resort to a good ol' plastic guitar if you want to rock along with the classic multicolored gems.

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[Thanks Nick!]

Continue reading Fender's Rock Band 3 Squier Stratocaster guitar rocks out March 1, 2011

JoystiqFender's Rock Band 3 Squier Stratocaster guitar rocks out March 1, 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Nov 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>controllerFenderGuitarHeroHarmonixmicrosoftnintendoperipheralsplaystationpricingps3release-dateRock-Band-3SquierSquier-StratocasterwiixboxTue, 02 Nov 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rolling Stone names the 50 best rock & roll games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/11/rolling-stone-names-the-50-best-rock-and-roll-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/11/rolling-stone-names-the-50-best-rock-and-roll-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/11/rolling-stone-names-the-50-best-rock-and-roll-games/#commentsFiled under:


The game industry's head-banging love affair with rock and/or roll stretches back as far as we can remember -- sometime around the late '70s. Now Rolling Stone has strummed its keyboard to capture what it calls the Top 50 Rock & Roll Video Games of All Time, laying accolades at the leather boots of Rock Band and Guitar Hero, while giving the likes of Revolution X and Crüe Ball the chance to scream into the mic one last time as if to shout, "Remember me!!?"

Lumping together the good (Loom, Frequency) with the awful (Spice World, really?) and just plain odd (are Simon's 'bleeps' and 'boops' really considered music?), the laundry list is something of a mixed bag. Though admittedly we're still reeling from the fact that whoever put together the feature managed to overlook Audiosurf and Gitaroo Man, but managed to give props to Sensible Software's canceled flamebait, Sex 'n' Drugs 'n' Rock 'n' Roll.

JoystiqRolling Stone names the 50 best rock & roll games originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Nov 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guitar-heroguitarheromusicrock-bandrockandrollrockbandrolling-stonerollingstoneTue, 11 Nov 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Top 5: Multiplayer Experiences]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/03/top-5-multiplayer-experiences/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/03/top-5-multiplayer-experiences/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/03/top-5-multiplayer-experiences/#commentsFiled under:


As someone who writes on the Internets, I do a lot of reading as well. As just about any successful author will advise, if I want to be a better writer then I should be reading as much as possible. Thus, I tend to spend a good amount of time scouring the gaming websites and reading commentary from just about anyone. I wouldn't insult anyone by pointing out flaws in their work (as I'm host to many of my own), but it is sufficient to say that there is great diversity in the quality and other general attributes of gaming commentary. One source that I do consistently enjoy comes from GoNintendo's head honcho, known as RawmeatCowboy. Equal parts Nintendo fan and beard enthusiast, RMC has a passion for gaming unmatched by nearly anyone else in the entire industry. Whereas some journalists and commentators may give off an impression of jaded cynicism, this particular blogger is a bundle of video game-loving joy. Though he's not quite the wordsmith of a Jerry Holkins, his joy and optimism transcend any potential criticism. And after all, that should be the reason we play video games: for happiness.

Stepping away from worshipping his shrine, I'll get back on target. In a recent post, RMC discusses offline multiplayer via a get-together involving several friends of his trying out Guitar Hero: World Tour. He states that multiplayer is more enjoyable in person than online, and I find it difficult to disagree. That is not to say that online multiplayer is garbage; quite the opposite is true. Aside from the obvious pragmatics of not always being able to round up a few friends to play a game you enjoy, there's the global aspect behind online gaming. Though I've been battling people online via chess years before any major console had such capabilities, the enormous power of the technology didn't register with me until very recently. As I was connecting to an online race in Mario Kart Wii, the identification of racers on the globe really hit home. Realizing that I was simultaneously connecting with individuals from Japan, China, Germany, and England was strangely beautiful.

Despite the fascinating global implications of such connections, I remain a bit of a luddite in that I don't think there's anything better than having your friends in the same room with you while fighting with or against each other. Here's the Top 5 ways we recommend that you enjoy such opportunities.


The Top 5 is a weekly feature that provides us with a forum to share our opinions on various aspects of the video game culture, and provides you with a forum to tell us how wrong we are. To further voice your opinions, submit a vote in the Wii Fanboy Poll, and take part in the daily discussions of Wii Warm Up.

JoystiqTop 5: Multiplayer Experiences originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Nov 2008 13:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bombermangoldeneyegoldeneye-007guitar-heroguitar-hero-world-tourguitarherojoystiqfeaturesmario-kartmario-kart-64mario-kart-wiimultiplayerrock-bandrock-band-2smash-brossmash-bros-brawlsmash-bros-meleesmashbrossmashbrosbrawlsuper-smash-brossuper-smash-bros-64super-smash-bros-brawlMon, 03 Nov 2008 13:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero World Tour's mystery instrument: a MIDI sequencer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/17/guitar-hero-world-tours-mystery-instrument-a-midi-sequencer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/17/guitar-hero-world-tours-mystery-instrument-a-midi-sequencer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/17/guitar-hero-world-tours-mystery-instrument-a-midi-sequencer/#commentsFiled under: , ,


That's right, a MIDI sequencer. While a far cry from our keytar-brandishing dreams, the addition will allow those savvy enough to wrap their heads around the process to compose music on the PC and then import their creations into Guitar Hero World Tour. The feature, however, doesn't sound like it's suited for the faint of heart, as Neversoft's Brian Bright tells Shacknews that "it's going to take an FAQ on the Guitar Hero site--it's not something that your average user is gonna do."

However, MIDI aficionados planning to compose their digital masterpieces on the Xbox 360 will likely find the experience lacking. While the PS3 sequencer will reportedly support a variety of instruments, including rhythm and lead guitars, bass, keyboards and drum tracks, the Xbox 360 alternative will be limited to drums alone due to "hardware issues." Then again, for those planning on channeling their inner John Bonham, what more do you need?

JoystiqGuitar Hero World Tour's mystery instrument: a MIDI sequencer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Sep 2008 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondrumsguitar-heroguitar-hero-4guitar-hero-ivguitar-hero-world-tourguitarheroinstrumentmidineversoftPS3sequencerXbox-360Wed, 17 Sep 2008 08:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Warner Music wants more money for licensed songs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/07/warner-music-wants-more-money-for-licensed-songs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/07/warner-music-wants-more-money-for-licensed-songs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/07/warner-music-wants-more-money-for-licensed-songs/#commentsFiled under: ,


Developers vying for a slice of the rhythm game pie may soon find the cost to dig in to be increasing -- at least if they want players to nod along with music they know. According to Reuters, Warner Music's top exec Edgar Bronfman has come forward, stating that game companies should pay more to the music industry in order to include licensed tunes in their music-based games.

Says Bronfman, who compared the relationship to the likes of MTV or Apple's iPod, "The amount being paid to the music industry, even though their games are entirely dependent on the content we own and control, is far too small." Given Warner's interest in music currently flowing through both Guitar Hero III and Rock Band, not to mention the war that is about to unfold on living room stages later this year, it will be interesting to see who will 5-star this game of financial tug-of-war.

JoystiqWarner Music wants more money for licensed songs originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Aug 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ghwtguitar-heroguitar-hero-4guitarheromusicprofitrock-bandrock-band-2rockbandwarnerwarner-musicThu, 07 Aug 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Activision plans to launch iTunes alternative]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/activision-plans-to-launch-itunes-alternative/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/activision-plans-to-launch-itunes-alternative/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/activision-plans-to-launch-itunes-alternative/#commentsFiled under:

Most of you should know that two days ago Activision merged with Vivendi's games division Blizzard to form the new publisher Activision Blizzard. The chief executive of the new company, Bobby Kotick, told the Financial Times today the company plans to create an iTunes alternative based off the Guitar Hero franchise. Kotick feels this is "the natural evolution" and Guitar hero has the "potential" to be a "credible alternative to iTunes."

These plans, of course, emerged at least partly due to Activision now having access to Universal Music, which is owned by Vivendi. Vivendi is also known to have payment processing capabilities in "virtually every country." The newly formed company ain't kidding around -- with $3.5 billion dollars lying around that was originally going to be used for a tender offer, there are rumors of them after everything from the Beatles catalogue (which iTunes failed to gain access to), to entering the bidding for Take-Two. Will Activision finally get its act together with the new sources it has at hand? Rock Band has obviously become a major threat by taking market share for rhythm games away from the profitable Guitar Hero franchise. Thoughts?

JoystiqActivision plans to launch iTunes alternative originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jul 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionactivision-blizzardblizzardguitar-heroGuitarHeroThu, 10 Jul 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Deal of the Day: Guitar Hero wireless Les Paul guitar for $36]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/deal-of-the-day-guitar-hero-wireless-les-paul-guitar-for-36/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/deal-of-the-day-guitar-hero-wireless-les-paul-guitar-for-36/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/deal-of-the-day-guitar-hero-wireless-les-paul-guitar-for-36/#commentsFiled under:


Looking to rock out with an extra wireless controller for Guitar Hero III? Look no further than this deal. The official Guitar Hero III Les Paul wireless guitar controller for the PS3 shipped to your door for $35.24. Retail is $59.99 but some like Best Buy are asking for $69.99. And remember, this will not work with Rock Band. We are not sure how long this deal will last, so act fast.

[Via CAG]

JoystiqDeal of the Day: Guitar Hero wireless Les Paul guitar for $36 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionguitar-heroguitar-hero-iiiguitarheroThu, 03 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[McFarlane Toys casting Guitar Hero in plastic]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/27/mcfarlane-toys-casting-guitar-hero-in-plastic/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/27/mcfarlane-toys-casting-guitar-hero-in-plastic/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/27/mcfarlane-toys-casting-guitar-hero-in-plastic/#commentsFiled under:


You have room on your desk, right? Right there between the Varia Suit Samus statue and Battle Armor Skeletor sits a space just begging to be filled. Now, McFarlane Toys, whose figs have more in common with plastic sculptures than actual toys, has announced plans to fill that space on your already crowded desk with figures based on Guitar Hero this November.

Already known for creating figures based on other video game properties such as Metal Gear Solid and Halo, McFarlane Toys has announced a manly lineup of four Guitar Hero personalities, each featuring 15-18 moving parts and a price between $10-15. The first wave of plastic rockers will include Johnny Napalm, Lars Ümlaut, Axel Steel, and God of Rock, while Casey Lynch and Judy Nails cheer lead the first wave from the sidelines.

Gallery: Guitar Hero McFarlane Toys

JoystiqMcFarlane Toys casting Guitar Hero in plastic originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Jun 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guitar-heroguitarheromcfarlanemcfarlane-toysmcfarlanetoystoysFri, 27 Jun 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq eyes and ears-on: Guitar Hero: World Tour]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/joystiq-eyes-and-ears-on-guitar-hero-world-tour/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/joystiq-eyes-and-ears-on-guitar-hero-world-tour/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/joystiq-eyes-and-ears-on-guitar-hero-world-tour/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Activision invited us out to the House of Blues last week, which was a fitting place to give us a first look at Guitar Hero: World Tour in action. Though we didn't get to play it, we did watch the folks from RedOctane take a spin through all the new features. Suffice it to say, this isn't simply Guitar Hero: Rock Band ... which is what we thought it might turn out to be. Read on after the break to find out why you'll soon have a closet filled with enough peripherals to make your own one-man band.

Gallery: Guitar Hero World Tour (06/20/08)

Continue reading Joystiq eyes and ears-on: Guitar Hero: World Tour

JoystiqJoystiq eyes and ears-on: Guitar Hero: World Tour originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionGuitar HeroGuitarHeroPS3RedOctaneWiiWorld TourWorldTourXbox-360Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ozzy-signed GHIII package up for auction]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/19/ozzy-signed-ghiii-package-up-for-auction/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/19/ozzy-signed-ghiii-package-up-for-auction/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/19/ozzy-signed-ghiii-package-up-for-auction/#commentsFiled under:


This is a pretty interesting auction, if we may say so. For one, we can understand if, say, Slash or Tom Morello, signed this Guitar Hero III package, but why would anyone get Ozzy to sign this? He's not in the game!

Still, it's pretty impressive to have Ozzy sign your toy guitar. The auction ends on June 25th, so get while the getting is good.

[Via Gamesniped]

JoystiqOzzy-signed GHIII package up for auction originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Jun 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionauctionebaygh3guitar-heroguitarheroozzyozzy-osbourneslashtom-morelloThu, 19 Jun 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Possibly the best Guitar Hero III player ever]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/this-might-be-the-best-guitar-hero-iii-player-ever/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/this-might-be-the-best-guitar-hero-iii-player-ever/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/this-might-be-the-best-guitar-hero-iii-player-ever/#commentsFiled under:


We've seen our fair share of fantastic Guitar Hero performances here at Wii Fanboy, but this one takes them all, pushes them to the ground and buries them beneath mounds and mounds of dirt. YouTube user iamchris4life comes out of the ending song in Guitar Hero III, DragonForce's "Through the Fire and Flames," with a 100% completion. As much as we'd like for you to already be watching the video at this very moment, we had to place it after the break. The end of the video has a lot of naughty words being screamed in celebration. So it's NSFW.

Continue reading Possibly the best Guitar Hero III player ever

JoystiqPossibly the best Guitar Hero III player ever originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jun 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondragonforcegh3guitar-heroguitar-hero-3guitarherothrough-the-fire-and-flamesThu, 05 Jun 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Coldplay to make Guitar Hero debut]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/coldplay-to-make-guitar-hero-debut/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/coldplay-to-make-guitar-hero-debut/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/coldplay-to-make-guitar-hero-debut/#commentsFiled under:

According to Entertainment Weekly, British music act Coldplay have said that their single, Violet Hill, will be on Guitar Hero. The article did not specify which Guitar Hero this will be, but it's more likely than not to be Guitar Hero III since it was mentioned that the track will be DLC.

The downloadable song is part of a huge publicity campaign for the band's new album, Vida La Vida, which is out June 17. A date was also not specified, but it's safe to assume that Violet Hill will appear sometime before, around, or on June 17.

[Via X3F]

JoystiqColdplay to make Guitar Hero debut originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coldplayguitar-heroguitar-hero-iiiguitarheroTue, 03 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero: On Tour video of genius]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/guitar-hero-on-tour-video-of-genius/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/guitar-hero-on-tour-video-of-genius/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/guitar-hero-on-tour-video-of-genius/#commentsFiled under:


Our two immediate thoughts upon loading up this Guitar Hero: On Tour "How To Rock Out" video:
  1. Pshaw, like we really need anyone telling us how to rock out
  2. Ugh, not this Patrick Fugit wannabe from the first trailer again
As it turns out, despite the almost Almost Famous kid, it's a hilarious video very reminiscent of Budweiser's "Real Men of Genius" campaign! And, even when the accompanying singer gets annoying towards the end, the video stays informative with previews of multiplayer attacks -- like swapping their screens or sending shirts for your opponents to autograph. "Now, who do I make it out to? To your mama?"

JoystiqGuitar Hero: On Tour video of genius originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 May 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbudweiserguitar-her-on-tourguitar-heroguitarheroon-tourreal-men-of-geniusred-octanerhythmtutorialWed, 28 May 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamestop prices Guitar Hero: World Tour bundle at $189]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/25/gamestop-prices-guitar-hero-world-tour-bundle-at-189/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/25/gamestop-prices-guitar-hero-world-tour-bundle-at-189/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/25/gamestop-prices-guitar-hero-world-tour-bundle-at-189/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


In order to remain competitive with Harmonix's pre-existing multi-instrument rockstar simulator, Activision's upcoming entry in their insanely lucrative franchise, Guitar Hero: World Tour, needs to match the price of the game it so closely resembles, Rock Band. According to a recent listing on Gamestop, it'll do just that -- the game alone will cost $59.99 on PS3 and 360 ($49.99 on Wii and PS2), a "guitar kit" bundle will run you $99.99, and the full band kit (which we assume will contain a guitar, a mic, and a drum kit) will run you $189.99 on 360, Wii and PS3, and $179.99 on PS2.

If these prices are accurate, you'll be paying $20 more for Activision's bundle than Harmonix's -- perhaps their five-piece drum kit costs more to produce than Rock Band's four-head. We don't mind shelling out the extra Jackson to get our hands on Activision's new skins -- the thousands of dollars we'll spend expanding our living room to contain two fake drum kits and four fake guitars, however, may have a noticeable impact on our finances.

[Thanks, Hashbrown Hunter.]

JoystiqGamestop prices Guitar Hero: World Tour bundle at $189 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 25 May 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbundledrumsgamestopguitarguitar-heroguitar-hero-world-tourguitarheropricePS2PS3WiiXbox-360Sun, 25 May 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ted Nugent confirms his appearance in Guitar Hero IV on talk radio show]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/18/ted-nugent-confirms-his-appearance-in-guitar-hero-iv-on-talk-rad/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/18/ted-nugent-confirms-his-appearance-in-guitar-hero-iv-on-talk-rad/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/18/ted-nugent-confirms-his-appearance-in-guitar-hero-iv-on-talk-rad/#commentsFiled under: ,


For a game subtitled "Legends of Rock", Guitar Hero III didn't feature that many real-life six-string virtuosos. Sure, you had Rage's Tom Morello, GnR's Slash and a brief cameo by VH1's latest lothario, Poison frontman Bret Michaels -- but many classic rock aficionados who tried their hand at Activision's shredding simulator were left unsatisfied in terms of quantity (and in the minds of those belonging to the churches of Hendrix and Clapton, quality).

Until now, we've yet to hear anything about the roster for the next legit entry in Activision's golden goose franchise (no, we're not nor will we ever count Guitar Hero: Aerosmith), however, that silence was recently broken by the whistle of a flaming arrow through the night air, fired from the heavenly compound bow of the Motor City Madman himself, Ted Nugent. Listen to his radio interview on Detroit's WRIF (about 12:30 in), where he uses all manner of colorful language to describe the mocap process. Now, if they could only get the rest of the Damn Yankees involved, it would definitely ensure a purchase on our end. How 'bout it, Blades?

[Thanks, Tyler.]

JoystiqTed Nugent confirms his appearance in Guitar Hero IV on talk radio show originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 18 May 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionguitar heroguitar-hero-ivGuitarHeroguitarheroivnugetedtednugentSun, 18 May 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero III getting triple-pack of Muse on May 8]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/03/guitar-hero-iii-getting-triple-pack-of-muse-on-may-8/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/03/guitar-hero-iii-getting-triple-pack-of-muse-on-may-8/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/03/guitar-hero-iii-getting-triple-pack-of-muse-on-may-8/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It seems that Activision has stumbled across the correct formula for getting us to drop our drumsticks and don our trusty, dusty Les Paul peripherals -- a three-song DLC pack for Guitar Hero III featuring the music of the epic British prog-rock trio, Muse. As of May 8, "Supermassive Black Hole" and "Exo-Politics" from their 2006 album Black Holes and Revelations as well as the fan-favorite "Stockholm Syndrome" from 2003's Absolution will be available to download for a heretofore unannounced price (we're assuming it will match the $6.25 price of former GHIII packs). We've got videos for all three tunes after the jump -- go decide which ones are purchase-worthy! (Hint: All of them.)

Continue reading Guitar Hero III getting triple-pack of Muse on May 8

JoystiqGuitar Hero III getting triple-pack of Muse on May 8 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 May 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondlcexo-politicsguitar-hero-iiiguitarheroguitarheroiiimusemusicPS3red-octanestockholmsyndromesupermassiveblackholeXbox-360Sat, 03 May 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch Aerosmith's digital selves rock out in Guitar Hero]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/02/watch-aerosmiths-digital-selves-rock-out-in-guitar-hero/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/02/watch-aerosmiths-digital-selves-rock-out-in-guitar-hero/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/02/watch-aerosmiths-digital-selves-rock-out-in-guitar-hero/#commentsFiled under:

Having an Aerosmith-only Guitar Hero game sounds like a great idea for fans of the band; however, non-Aerosmith followers will probably want to skip over this one. So, with that said Aerosmith fans, this one is for you. Check out this footage of the digitized musicians rocking it out on the virtual stage. Get a taste of "Sweet Emotion," "Love in an Elevator," and also a bit of the few non-Aerosmith tracks in the game. So, enjoy the performance, but whatever you do ... don't follow Steven Tyler backstage if he calls you to walk this way, capiche?

JoystiqWatch Aerosmith's digital selves rock out in Guitar Hero originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 May 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aerosmithguitar-heroguitarheroFri, 02 May 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GHSkinz adds style to your fake instruments]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/ghskinz-adds-style-to-your-fake-instruments/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/ghskinz-adds-style-to-your-fake-instruments/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/ghskinz-adds-style-to-your-fake-instruments/#commentsFiled under: ,

Folks looking to jazz up their plastic Les Pauls for Guitar Hero or instruments they'll be jamming with in Rock Band, take note. Website GHSkinz is looking to offer you skins and other accessories for your fake instruments.

The skins themselves look like they're high quality, but with that comes the problem of price. It won't be cheap to outfit your instruments. But, then again, when your guitar looks as badass as this, we're not sure you're going to care about how much you spent to make sure it looks this way.

See also: Give your Rock Band drums some extra lives

JoystiqGHSkinz adds style to your fake instruments originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Apr 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioneaguitar-heroguitar-hero-iiiguitarheroguitarheroiiimusicrock-bandTue, 15 Apr 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii and friends: A Great Match]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/09/wii-and-friends-a-great-match/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/09/wii-and-friends-a-great-match/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/09/wii-and-friends-a-great-match/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Why do we love the Wii with friends? Because we want all to share the splendor and majesty that comes from playing the best home gaming console around. So that's why we set out to bring you a nice, easy package of great multiplayer games for the Wii.

Both online and local multiplayer is covered, as well as games that have released and those that are still in production. We hope you find this useful in your own life, in some small way, or at least a good place to link a friend who has no idea what they're getting into with the Wii. So read on and see what we have in store, then come back here and tell us what multiplayer experiences you enjoy most on the Wii!

JoystiqWii and friends: A Great Match originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Apr 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bombermanbwiicapcomdeca-sportsendless-oceanguitarherohudsonjoysoundjoystiqfeaturesmadden08mariomario-kartmario-kart-wiimario-partymarioparty8mariostrikerschargedmp8multiplayernintendonintendo-wiipbrpokemonresident-evilreucrock-bandsmash-bros-brawltetristrauma-centertraumacenterumbrella-chronicleswariowarewiiWed, 09 Apr 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Les Paul costs less money]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/04/les-paul-costs-less-money/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/04/les-paul-costs-less-money/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/04/les-paul-costs-less-money/#commentsFiled under:


Those of you in the market for another guitar for Guitar Hero III will be happy to know that RedOctane has dropped the cost of the wireless Les Paul guitar. Originally fetching a price of $69.99, it is now $10 cheaper.

Have you been holding off on picking up an extra guitar until the price dropped? Have you been waiting to get one but just can't find one? Want a free one? Or do you go from hotel to hotel enjoying the Guitar Hero III they have to offer?

[Thanks, Eric!]

JoystiqLes Paul costs less money originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Apr 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionguitar-heroguitar-hero-3guitarheroguitarhero3guitarheroiiiles-paulwireless-guitarFri, 04 Apr 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero III squeezes out version for BlackBerry]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/guitar-hero-iii-squeezes-out-version-for-blackberry/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/guitar-hero-iii-squeezes-out-version-for-blackberry/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/guitar-hero-iii-squeezes-out-version-for-blackberry/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Poor Bessy, the Guitar Hero cow is getting her teats squeezed raw by Activision. Hands-On Mobile announced another addition to the GH III oeuvre as the "number one selling" mobile version of Guitar Hero III became available for BlackBerry smartphones. Come on Bessy, just keep squirting.

According to Hands-On the mobile version of Guitar Hero III has achieved 7.5 million song downloads in less than six months and will be available on the nation's top four mobile carriers by April. Oh well, more power to 'em. Observing someone play GH III on a phone can't possibly be more awkward than it'll be watching someone play the DS version of GH III on the subway in the morning.

JoystiqGuitar Hero III squeezes out version for BlackBerry originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Apr 2008 22:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionguitar-heroguitar-hero-3guitar-hero-iiiguitarherohands-onMobileTue, 01 Apr 2008 22:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Come for the soft beds, stay for the Wii Sports]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/come-for-the-soft-beds-stay-for-the-wii-sports/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/come-for-the-soft-beds-stay-for-the-wii-sports/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/come-for-the-soft-beds-stay-for-the-wii-sports/#commentsFiled under:



What's a good way to get folks into your hotel? We have no clue, what with being a game blog and all, but it looks like some hotels might have found a good way to get folks in their doors: gaming. We imagine if you have something the people like and want, they'll flock to you. That must be the thinking behind some hotels in the U.S. incorporating some of the most popular games into their repertoire of activities available to patrons. Games such as Wii Sports and Guitar Hero III.

While we can't comment on whether this is a good decision from a business perspective, we can comment that this is a good decision from a customer service perspective. Now top Wii Sports bowlers and fast-fingered freaks in Guitar Hero III need not worry about getting rusty while they're attending that convention in Tuscaloosa.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqCome for the soft beds, stay for the Wii Sports originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guitar-heroguitarheroguitarhero3hotelhotelswiisportsTue, 01 Apr 2008 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[First Guitar Hero: Aerosmith tracks include 'Draw the Line,' 'Sweet Emotion']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/28/first-guitar-hero-aerosmith-tracks-include-draw-the-line-sw/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/28/first-guitar-hero-aerosmith-tracks-include-draw-the-line-sw/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/28/first-guitar-hero-aerosmith-tracks-include-draw-the-line-sw/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Though we were briefly distracted by mention of some other bands set to feature in Guitar Hero: Aerosmith, Activision has reminded us that the rhythmography will, in fact, include Aerosmith tunes. Gamespot reports that of the 40-plus songs in the game, 60 percent will be devoted to the increasingly decrepit crooners.

Ah, but age is just a number and fans aren't likely to care when they start pressing plastic in rhythm to these confirmed numbers:
Expect further songs to be revealed at an excruciatingly slow pace as the game's June release walks this way.

JoystiqFirst Guitar Hero: Aerosmith tracks include 'Draw the Line,' 'Sweet Emotion' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Mar 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionaerosmithGuitar-Heroguitar-hero-aerosmithGuitarHeroNeversoftPS2PS3WiiXbox-360Fri, 28 Mar 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Counting Rupees: Battle of the brands]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/counting-rupees-battle-of-the-brands/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/counting-rupees-battle-of-the-brands/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/counting-rupees-battle-of-the-brands/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Each week Jeff Engel and Geoff Brooks contribute Counting Rupees, a column on the business behind gaming:

When Guitar Hero 3 launched last year it was an immediate success, selling out at a fairly quick pace throughout the holiday season. Following just behind it was Rock Band, selling very well, but not nearly as quickly as Guitar Hero. So far, all versions of Guitar Hero III have sold about 9.1M copies, versus just roughly 1.5M for Rock Band. Of course, part of the discrepancy lies in the fact that Rock Band launched on two platforms while Guitar Hero 3 launched on four, but that is about to be remedied with Harmonix's recent announcement of Rock Band for Wii. While Rock Band was a more ambitious game and representative of an evolution of the music game, it did seem like Activision may have made the right choice in buying the Guitar Hero publisher (and thus the Guitar Hero brand), but not the developer. With so much brand awareness already built into Guitar Hero, was there any way that Harmonix could possibly top the original creation that it no longer owned the rights to?

Continue reading Counting Rupees: Battle of the brands

JoystiqCounting Rupees: Battle of the brands originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Mar 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionAerosmithCounting-RupeesDSEAElectronic-ArtsGuitar-HeroGuitarHeroHarmonixMTVNeversoftPCPS2PS3Red-OctaneRedOctaneRock-BandRockBandWiiXbox-360Thu, 27 Mar 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero: Aerosmith gets more non-Aerosmith tracks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/25/guitar-hero-aerosmith-gets-more-non-aerosmith-tracks/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/25/guitar-hero-aerosmith-gets-more-non-aerosmith-tracks/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/25/guitar-hero-aerosmith-gets-more-non-aerosmith-tracks/#commentsFiled under:


For all of you that were hoping a game called Guitar Hero: Aerosmith would contain as littleAerosmith as possible , know that today pushes the title further into your good graces. A slew of new bands were confirmed to be in the game and not a single one of them is called Aerosmith.

New tracks confirmed for Guitar Hero: Aerosmith (via Game Informer) include Mott the Hoople's "All the Young Dudes", The Kinks with "All Day and All Night," Joan Jett with "Hate Myself for Loving You" and Cheap Trick with "Dream Police." While not entirely clued in to the kids and their crazy music, our interest in this game is growing through each new non-Aerosmith song. What about you all?

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqGuitar Hero: Aerosmith gets more non-Aerosmith tracks originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 25 Mar 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionaerosmithguitar-heroguitar-hero-aerosmithguitarheroneversoftTue, 25 Mar 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Friday Video: Guitar Hero world record-setter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/21/friday-video-guitar-hero-world-record-setter/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/21/friday-video-guitar-hero-world-record-setter/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/21/friday-video-guitar-hero-world-record-setter/#commentsFiled under:


It may not be the Wii version of the game, but anyone that can throw down in Guitar Hero as good as this kid can is certainly deserving of all the fame and fortune that comes from being featured on Wii Fanboy. The fame of being recognized by avatar-less commenters and the fortune of having 14 people see your video are just some of the small things Wii Fanboy can bring to the table.

All kidding aside, this guy is good. In fact, we wonder what would happen if him and that little kid got together in the same room. It'd like totally cause a rift in the space/time continuum or something.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqFriday Video: Guitar Hero world record-setter originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Mar 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiongh3guinessguitarheroguitarhero3guitarheroiiiles-paulrecordFri, 21 Mar 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Activision believes Gibson's patent has 'no merit']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/activision-believes-gibsons-patent-has-no-merit/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/activision-believes-gibsons-patent-has-no-merit/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/activision-believes-gibsons-patent-has-no-merit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Activision has made a formal statement about its lawsuit against Gibson Guitar Corporation's patent claim on Guitar Hero. Activision calls Gibson's squeeze-play a "transparent end run ... on patent assertions that Gibson knows have no merit." According to Activision, Gibson waited three years until this past January to make its patent allegations and only did so after Activision said it was no longer interested in renewing its "marketing and support agreement with Gibson."

Poor Gibson, looks like it's just a little bitter about (Warning: double cliché alert) not seeing the light on its patent many moons ago and missing the boat on a billion dollar franchise. Meanwhile, Harmonix is still making money off the franchise it lost and is currently working out a deal with Activision over the $14.5 million the company says it's due in royalty fees.

JoystiqActivision believes Gibson's patent has 'no merit' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 16:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionghgibsonguitar-heroguitarheroharmonixlawsuitPS3WiiXbox-360Thu, 20 Mar 2008 16:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero III Guinness record holder wins tournament, beats previous record]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/gh-guinness-record-holder-wins-gh-iii-tournament-beats-previous/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/gh-guinness-record-holder-wins-gh-iii-tournament-beats-previous/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/gh-guinness-record-holder-wins-gh-iii-tournament-beats-previous/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Chris Chike, currently the Guinness world record holder for points in Guitar Hero III, won the Play N Trade GHIII tournament last weekend and bested his record-setting score. Chike's Guinness score was 870,647 (seen in video above) before he won the tournament, along with $2000 of in-store credit, with 889,256 points.

The best part of this story is that Chike actually drove two hours to compete at the Play N Trade store in Bloomington, Minnesota. Guess when you're the world record holder the trip seems worth it, considering you've probably got the win in the bag. Chike says he still hasn't done as well at any tournament event than he's done at home. The good thing about tournaments and competition is you only have to be better than second place.

JoystiqGuitar Hero III Guinness record holder wins tournament, beats previous record originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chikechris-chikeghgh3ghiiiguitar heroguitarheroguitarheroiiiplay-n-tradePS3WiiXbox-360Thu, 20 Mar 2008 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[The best thing you'll see today: Guitar Hero for the Commodore 64]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/11/the-best-thing-youll-see-today-guitar-hero-for-the-commodore-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/11/the-best-thing-youll-see-today-guitar-hero-for-the-commodore-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/11/the-best-thing-youll-see-today-guitar-hero-for-the-commodore-6/#commentsFiled under: ,

After Guitar Hero made its way to mobile phones, this shouldn't come as much of a surprise: The game has (unofficially) made its way to the Commodore 64. Creator Toni Westbrook calls it Shredz64. We call it a ridiculously cool labor of love, and the best thing we've seen today.

Far from master tracks, the game only plays SID files, but for the decidedly (and necessarily) retro graphics of the game, it totally works. If you need proof, skip to about 4:30 in to see Toni wail through the Legend of Zelda Overworld theme. There's another equally impressive song after the break if you're interested. And if you're not, we're totally breaking up.

Continue reading The best thing you'll see today: Guitar Hero for the Commodore 64

JoystiqThe best thing you'll see today: Guitar Hero for the Commodore 64 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Mar 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commodore64guitar-heroguitarheroTue, 11 Mar 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Huckabee decompresses after election defeat with lasagna and Rock Band]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/09/huckabee-decompresses-after-campaign-with-lasagna-and-rock-band/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/09/huckabee-decompresses-after-campaign-with-lasagna-and-rock-band/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/09/huckabee-decompresses-after-campaign-with-lasagna-and-rock-band/#commentsFiled under: ,


Following the primary elections of Vermont, Rhode Island, Texas and Ohio on March 4, a date affectionately known by many political junkies as "Super Tuesday 2: Electric Boogaloo", the Republican party found themselves with a candidate presumptive in John McCain following Mike Huckabee's resignation. How did the former Arkansas governor recover from watching his presidential aspirations crash and burn, you ask? He did what any of us would do -- he played some Rock Band, and he macked on some 'zanya.

It was a fitting end for the bass-slapper-turned-presidential-candidate, as his staffers gathered around to enjoy the layered Italian treat, and to witness Huck's well-documented aptitude with peripheral-based rhythm games. Regardless of your political views and endorsements, we think we can all agree that the gaming community would be well-served by a president that shared Huckabee's fervor for video games of any kind. His reported Garfield-esque penchant for lasagna, however, we could take or leave.

JoystiqHuckabee decompresses after election defeat with lasagna and Rock Band originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 09 Mar 2008 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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As our bat-eared readers discovered when the game was first released, the Wii edition of Guitar Hero III, though advertised as possessing Dolby Surround Sound capabilities, could only duplicate one channel of audio through multiple speakers (a.k.a. mono sound). Incensed, Nintendo's virtual troubadours demanded action -- Activision responded with a somewhat less-than-timely disc replacement program. Now, four months after the game was released, Activision has announced another method of atonement for their single-channel sins.

Instead of replacing your half-mute disc with a standard one (though this option is still available), you can now replace said disc with cold, hard cash (or warm, soft cash, depending on your local climate and the weariness of the bills you receive). While we're sure this policy will be exploited by those who tire of faux rocking and simply want the cash, it's refreshing to see Actie-V face their shortcomings so directly -- if not a tad unpunctually.

[Via Evil Avatar]

JoystiqActivision offering refunds for Wii version of Guitar Hero III originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 24 Feb 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Well, for those of you who had time to check in on our poll and voiced that you would like a full refund for the game, Activision has announced that they're doing just that. If a replacement disc doesn't sound like your cup of tea, you can instead fill out a hefty form and send it in for cash monies instead of a disc with surround sound.

Which would you choose?

[Thanks, Tom!]

Read - Full refund details
Read - PDF refund form

JoystiqActivision offering full refunds for Guitar Hero 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiongh3ghiiiguitarheroguitarhero3Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Fanboy poll: How can Activision make it up to you?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/wii-fanboy-poll-how-can-activision-make-it-up-to-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/wii-fanboy-poll-how-can-activision-make-it-up-to-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/wii-fanboy-poll-how-can-activision-make-it-up-to-you/#commentsFiled under:


You know, the whole Guitar Hero 3 debacle has been our minds a lot lately. Mainly because folks are finally starting to get their packages that they send their busted copy of the game out with (you know, where they wait 3-4 weeks for a new disc). We can't be the only ones peeved at this whole state of affairs, right?

So, as a responsible blog, we decided to toss up a poll with some ideas on how Activision can win back some of you angry wanna-be rockers. If you want your voice heard, head past the break.

Continue reading Wii Fanboy poll: How can Activision make it up to you?

JoystiqWii Fanboy poll: How can Activision make it up to you? originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiongh3ghiiiguitar-heroguitar-hero-3guitarheroFri, 22 Feb 2008 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Nyko not the only ones making a guitar]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/19/nyko-not-the-only-ones-making-a-guitar/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/19/nyko-not-the-only-ones-making-a-guitar/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/19/nyko-not-the-only-ones-making-a-guitar/#commentsFiled under: ,


While many of you wait on the official Les Pauls to hit the open market, third-party solutions from companies like Nyko are likely presenting themselves as increasingly better choices as each new day passes. It's okay, we think they look kind of sweet, too!

Now, there's another option courtesy of CTA Digital. The guitar (pictured) looks like the inside of a ski lodge, to be honest. At least it's a dark shade, as an oak-like finish would've not been all-too-pleasing to the eye, if we may say so.

One problem we've encountered is we can't find it anywhere. We've searched some of the distributors that are listed on CTA's website, but none lead to an actual listing for this guitar. So, we have no idea in regards to price at this moment.

[Thanks, Dan!]

JoystiqNyko not the only ones making a guitar originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Feb 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gh3ghiiiguitarguitarheroguitarhero3Tue, 19 Feb 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Guitar Hero: Aerosmith to use drum and mic peripherals]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/17/rumor-guitar-hero-aerosmith-to-use-drum-and-mic-peripherals/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/17/rumor-guitar-hero-aerosmith-to-use-drum-and-mic-peripherals/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/17/rumor-guitar-hero-aerosmith-to-use-drum-and-mic-peripherals/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


While you might think a game titled Guitar Hero: Aerosmith would have you playing, you know, guitars, a Best Buy advertisement for the latest mistake chapter in the rhythm game franchise claims you'll be able to play as all of the "famous rock legends" in "America's greatest rock and roll band" -- including the drummer, Joey Kramer, and band's own lady-lookin'-dude, Steven Tyler, using a drum peripheral and microphone peripheral (complete with flamboyantly colored scarf, we assume).

If true, we wonder if Activision would release their own controllers for the game, or count on backwards compatibility with the Rock Band peripherals (fat chance, considering the near feud between Harmonix and Activision over Rock Band's guitar compatibility issues). Not that it matters to us -- the only devices we'd use to interact with a rhythm game featuring songs by Aerosmith are a clay pigeon launcher and our trusty pump-action shotgun.

[Thanks, Waffle Slayer.]

JoystiqRumor: Guitar Hero: Aerosmith to use drum and mic peripherals originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 17 Feb 2008 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionaerosmithdrumsguitarheroguitarhero:aerosmithjoeykramermicmicrophoneneversoftPS3steventylerWiiXbox-360Sun, 17 Feb 2008 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Activision files trademark for 'DJ Hero']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/17/activision-files-trademark-for-dj-hero/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/17/activision-files-trademark-for-dj-hero/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/17/activision-files-trademark-for-dj-hero/#commentsFiled under:


Activision, publishers of Guitar Hero 2 and 3 (and the abomination known as Guitar Hero Encore: Rocks the 80s), recently filed for a trademark for the name "DJ Hero". No, it's not an adventure game featuring everyone's favorite character from Full House -- the trademark references software to be released with a special controller, leading us to assume we'll be living out our fondest Mix Master Mike fantasies with a rhythm game, complete with tiny plastic turntables when, and if, the game comes out.

Wait a minute -- doesn't that sound a lot like Beatmania, a popular Konami rhythm game using a turntable peripheral that's been around since 1997? Now that we think about it, Konami also came up with Guitar Freaks in 1998, long before the release of the similarly designed Guitar Hero. And that Rock Band drum peripheral looks a heck of a lot like the one used in Konami's 1999 arcade hit DrumMania. We wonder what Harmonix and Activision's next project will be -- Vampire Killer Hero or FOXHOUND Hero?

JoystiqActivision files trademark for 'DJ Hero' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 17 Feb 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbeatmaniadjdjherodrummaniaguitarfreaksguitarheromixmastermikemusicrhythmturntablesSun, 17 Feb 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero: Aerosmith announced, GHIII getting 'Dream On' for free]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/15/guitar-hero-aerosmith-announced-ghiii-getting-dream-on-for-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/15/guitar-hero-aerosmith-announced-ghiii-getting-dream-on-for-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/15/guitar-hero-aerosmith-announced-ghiii-getting-dream-on-for-f/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


In an announcement that may just usurp the throne from Electronic Arts as the king of milking franchises, Activision has announced plans for a new Guitar Hero title, casting aside the franchise's reputation for offering a wide breadth of rocking tracks in favor of highlighting a single band -- Aerosmith. The news echoes comments made by guitarist Joe Perry last year regarding the series' next installment, at which time he said that the next Guitar Hero game would be dedicated to the band's music.

The announcement comes following Activision's promise earlier this month to return to the well this year, with the newly announced Guitar Hero: Aerosmith currently expected to ship to retail in June with Neversoft handling the game for the Xbox 360 and PS3, and Vicarious Visions taking care of development on the Wii. Details remain nonexistent concerning what tracks we can expect to make the cut, with guitarist Joe Perry commenting only that the title is "based on the diversity of the Aerosmith catalog." With a game dedicated to one -- and only one -- band, we have to assume that whatever songs do find their way onto the disc, they'll be master tracks (they better be).

And if June seems to far off for those of you hugging your Steven Tyler doll while staring at the Pump tour poster on the wall, Activision has announced plans to release the band's 1973 power ballad 'Dream On' as a download for the Xbox 360 and PS3 versions of GHIII (Sorry Wii owners, but you knew what you were getting into). The song will be free from February 16-18, so get it while it's hot!

JoystiqGuitar Hero: Aerosmith announced, GHIII getting 'Dream On' for free originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Feb 2008 09:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Reader Joe wrote in to us to inform that he had gotten his mailer for his replacement copy of Guitar Hero III. It's something we talk about quite a bit around the offices here and you all no doubt have a somewhat bad taste in your mouth after finally getting the Guitar Hero franchise on a Nintendo console. We're hip to it, we understand.

But, were you one of the folks who are in need of a replacement disc? Have you received your mailer too? Or, are you waiting for this all to blow over before jumping into Guitar Hero III? Perhaps you're waiting on the competition first?

JoystiqWii Warm Up: Are you ready for your replacement? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Feb 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiongh3ghiiiguitar-hero-3guitarheroguitarhero3guitarheroiiireplacementsTue, 12 Feb 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Activision's 2008 promises more Guitar Hero, James Bond, Spider-Man]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/activisions-2008-promises-more-guitar-hero-james-bond-spider/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/activisions-2008-promises-more-guitar-hero-james-bond-spider/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/activisions-2008-promises-more-guitar-hero-james-bond-spider/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Activision's recent conference call didn't consist entirely of gloating about those record holiday-quarter sales, as the publisher also took the opportunity to outline some of its plans for 2008. It seems we're in for quite the party, albeit one where you'll actually remember everybody's name. Guitar Hero? James Bond? Tony Hawk? Spider-Man? Yeah, we've met.

According to a Variety report, the aforementioned party will see multiple performances by The Instrument Protagonists, due to promote two Guitar Hero "add-ons" in Spring and a full sequel in Fall. While party animals debate the game tie-ins to animated films Kung Fu Panda and Madagascar 2, suave gentleman will attempt to decrypt James Bond's film adaptation, Quantum of Solace. A roughly equal amount of solace will be found by the comic fans huddled around the punch bowl, as new Spider-Man and Marvel Ultimate Alliance games are expected to knock on the door at some point during the festivities.

Finally, don't expect Tony Hawk to be turned away (he's on the guest list), especially since he's bringing his friend ... uh ... Call of Duty? We honestly don't know where we're going with this analogy.

[Via The Cut Scene]

JoystiqActivision's 2008 promises more Guitar Hero, James Bond, Spider-Man originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Feb 2008 06:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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One of the nice things about being the top US publisher in a booming game industry is that it affords you the privilege of announcing record holiday sales. Activision's third fiscal quarter, stretching from October to December 2007, saw the publisher's sales increase by 80% over the year prior to $1.48 billion, with profits amounting to $272.2 million. Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock and Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare are the key titles to praise if you're Activision and blame if you're a consumer wondering where all your hard-earned money went.

Activision anticipates a further $350 million in sales to originate from its fourth fiscal quarter (ending in March), ultimately contributing to a projected $2.65 billion for the entire fiscal year 2008. As long as shootin' and shreddin' remain popular and the upcoming Vivendi merger stays on track, we don't expect to put "bankrupt" and "Activision" in the same sentence for a very long time. Well, not unless one those words is preceded by "creatively."


JoystiqActivision Q4 sales up 80% to $1.48 billion originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Feb 2008 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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