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[Hands-on: Power Gig's AirStrike Drum]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/08/hands-on-power-gigs-airstrike-drum/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/08/hands-on-power-gigs-airstrike-drum/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/08/hands-on-power-gigs-airstrike-drum/#comments Power Gig's AirStrike Drum is either a terrific idea with terrible execution ... or just a bad idea. Seven45's drum kit takes a very different approach from the game's defining pas-faux guitar. In fact, the team has done a complete 180, going as far away from a "realistic" approach as possible.

The name does a good job of explaining how this peripheral works. Instead of hitting a toy-like facsimile of a drum, you are "hitting" air. The Simon-esque drum pad is equipped with sensors that detect when the specially-designed drum sticks are swung above. It's certainly a novel idea, one that has some immediate benefits: without the need for replica cymbals, this device is incredibly small. For those struggling with plastic instrument clutter, this is a rather clever solution. (Bonus: The AirStrike is also compatible with current Rock Band and Guitar Hero games.) Another perk of the device: it's quiet. Your roommates won't be bothered by the loud sounds of plastic tapping.

While the AirStrike offers some improvements over previous drum peripherals, it's significantly more difficult to use. With a physical object to hit, it's easy to determine what's wrong. Here, as I kept on missing a string of notes, I couldn't help but wonder what was at fault: the game, the drums or me.

Gallery: Power Gig: Rise of the SixString

Continue reading Hands-on: Power Gig's AirStrike Drum

JoystiqHands-on: Power Gig's AirStrike Drum originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Jun 2010 23:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airstrike-drumdrumsmicrosoftplaystationpower-gigpower-gig-rise-of-the-sixstringps3seven45xboxXbox-360Tue, 08 Jun 2010 23:10:00 EST<![CDATA[GM-1 connects real drums to Guitar Hero, Rock Band]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/gm-1-connects-real-drums-to-guitar-hero-rock-band/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/gm-1-connects-real-drums-to-guitar-hero-rock-band/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/gm-1-connects-real-drums-to-guitar-hero-rock-band/#comments If you're the type of person who spends the weekend stuffing wads of cash into your Skeet shooter, only to blow 'em to pieces with your golden shotgun once they're airborne, then the $250 Omega Music Technology's GM-1 may be the perfect accessory to your expensive hobbies. The system is essentially an intermediary between Guitar Hero or Rock Band gaming drums, allowing you to play along with the games' drum tracks on the real thing ($500 drum set sold separately).

As Ars Technica points out in a recent hands-on with the product, "It's an interesting idea, but you need to be willing to put some serious time and money into the project to get worthwhile results." Aside from owning a set of real drums, you'll need the "fake" ones, too -- the GM-1 sensors send feedback from your drum set to the attached Guitar Hero or Rock Band drums, which then send the in-game cues to the gaming console. Sure, it might work, but who's got the time and money? Oh, that's right, you, Mr. I Own the Biggest Music Game Peripheral Ever. Congratulations.

JoystiqGM-1 connects real drums to Guitar Hero, Rock Band originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 10:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drummingdrumsgm-1guitar-heroMicrosoftNintendoomega-gm-1omega-music-technologyperipheralsrock-bandWiiXbox-360Wed, 06 Jan 2010 10:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Swag Saturday: Guitar Hero 5 with Logitech Wireless Drums (PS3)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/03/swag-saturday-guitar-hero-5-with-logitech-wireless-drums-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/03/swag-saturday-guitar-hero-5-with-logitech-wireless-drums-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/03/swag-saturday-guitar-hero-5-with-logitech-wireless-drums-ps3/#comments
Ever dreamed of owning your very own ridiculously high-priced fake drum set? No no, silly goose, not that ridiculously high-priced fake drum set! The Logitech Wireless set, of course!

For Swag Saturday this week, we're giving you (and consequently ridding ourselves of) a mammoth wireless drum set care of Logitech (only for the PS3/PS2, folks!) and a complimentary copy of Guitar Hero 5. All you have to do is leave a comment below telling us how you're going to celebrate your Rocktober. When the contest runs out tomorrow, we'll pick one lucky winner to receive the whole schebang.
  • Leave a comment telling us how you're going to celebrate your Rocktober.
  • You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the US or Canada (excluding Quebec, mostly because of the accent)
  • Limit 1 entry per person per day
  • This entry period ends at 8:31PM ET on Sunday, October 4
  • At that time, we'll randomly select one winner to receive Guitar Hero 5 ($60 ARV) and a Logitech Wireless Drum Kit ($230 ARV)
  • For a list of complete rules, click here

JoystiqSwag Saturday: Guitar Hero 5 with Logitech Wireless Drums (PS3) originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 Oct 2009 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondrumsguitar-heroguitar-hero-5joyswaglogitechswag-saturdaySat, 03 Oct 2009 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Logitech's high-end Guitar Hero controllers headed to Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/09/logitechs-high-end-guitar-hero-controllers-headed-to-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/09/logitechs-high-end-guitar-hero-controllers-headed-to-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/09/logitechs-high-end-guitar-hero-controllers-headed-to-wii/#commentsIf you want to spend way too much money on game instruments, but don't want to buy the fancy Beatles: Rock Band box, Logitech has you covered. Following the launch of the Wireless Guitar Controller for PS3/PS2 and Xbox 360, Logitech is bringing the $199 peripheral to Wii in North America and Europe this October.

The controller, which was black in its PS3 incarnation and orange for 360, will have a white body (with room to attach a Wiimote), and the same "maple neck, rosewood fingerboard and metal frets" that help justify the price of the other versions.

Logitech is also introducing a Wii version of its $229 Wireless Drum Controller, which is designed to fold up easily, and features both drum pads and kick pedals that are improved over the basic Guitar Hero drums -- which, at that price, they'd better be.

JoystiqLogitech's high-end Guitar Hero controllers headed to Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drumsguitarguitar-herologitechlogitech-wireless-guitarwireless-drum-controllerwireless-guitar-controllerWed, 09 Sep 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RedOctane unveils Guitar Hero 5 drums]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/16/red-octane-unveils-guitar-hero-5-drums/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/16/red-octane-unveils-guitar-hero-5-drums/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/16/red-octane-unveils-guitar-hero-5-drums/#comments
We're guessing that of all the tiny plastic instruments you've collected in your den, drum sets are still the most uncommon. Therefore, you may be able to scrounge up a smidgen of enthusiasm for the image above, which depicts the drum peripheral that will come bundled with select versions of Guitar Hero 5 when the game launches this September.

This revelation brings up two interesting points -- first, RedOctane is viciously taking the wind out of the sails of Logitech, who revealed its own cymbal-equipped drum peripheral yesterday at an unwelcoming price point of $229. Second, it looks like the leaked pictures and list of features we received earlier in the month were legit -- and as you surely know, every time a leak is proven legitimate, an angel gets its wings.

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqRedOctane unveils Guitar Hero 5 drums originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Jul 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondrumsguitar-hero-5MicrosoftNintendoperipheralsred-octanerhythmWiiXbox-360Thu, 16 Jul 2009 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Guitar Hero 5 drum set to look an awful lot like Rock Band's]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/rumor-guitar-hero-5-drum-set-to-look-an-awful-lot-like-rock-ban/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/rumor-guitar-hero-5-drum-set-to-look-an-awful-lot-like-rock-ban/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/rumor-guitar-hero-5-drum-set-to-look-an-awful-lot-like-rock-ban/#comments
Is the drum kit above (to the right) what Guitar Hero 5 will be shipping with when it hits this September? We're not 100% sure, but a trusted source at our sister site Engadget sent in the blurry shot, leading us to believe it could very well be.

The new set bears a strong resemblance to that other full band music/rhythm game -- hey, there's even a lower bar support where the kick pedal could possibly hook on! Additionally, as Engadget rightly points out, the system controls have been moved in front of the pads. The back of the set allegedly features two kick pedal jacks and a "mysterious black mini jack" as well. We've asked for comment from Activision for confirmation of the set and have yet to hear back.

Gallery: Guitar Hero 5

JoystiqRumor: Guitar Hero 5 drum set to look an awful lot like Rock Band's originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Jul 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondrumsengadgetguitar-heroguitar-hero-5guitar-hero-world-tourMicrosoftneversoftNintendorock-bandrumorWiiXbox-360Mon, 06 Jul 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Today only: get Guitar Hero Smash Hits with drum, microphone for $99]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/24/today-only-get-guitar-hero-smash-hits-with-a-drum-and-microphon/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/24/today-only-get-guitar-hero-smash-hits-with-a-drum-and-microphon/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/24/today-only-get-guitar-hero-smash-hits-with-a-drum-and-microphon/#commentsIf you already have a Guitar Hero guitar sitting around (at this point, it's statistically likely), RedOctane is offering an opportunity to finish your band kit and get a new(ish) game for a great price. The company's website is selling a pack containing a copy of Guitar Hero: Smash Hits, along with a drum set and a microphone for $99.99, with free shipping. That's the exact same price the company is charging for just a drum set!

This package is, inexplicably, only available for Xbox 360 and Wii, and is only available today, so you don't have too much time to think about how weird it is to sell a Guitar Hero bundle with everything but the title instrument.

JoystiqToday only: get Guitar Hero Smash Hits with drum, microphone for $99 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Jun 2009 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondrumsguitar-heroguitar-hero-smash-hitsMicrosoftNintendoredoctaneWiiXbox-360Wed, 24 Jun 2009 09:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Ben Heck creates breath-controlled drum pedal for Guitar Hero World Tour]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/ben-heck-creates-breath-controlled-drum-pedal-for-guitar-hero-wo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/ben-heck-creates-breath-controlled-drum-pedal-for-guitar-hero-wo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/ben-heck-creates-breath-controlled-drum-pedal-for-guitar-hero-wo/#comments
Last June, Kinetic Communications created a clever workaround for wheelchair-bound gamers who possess a penchant for Rock Band drumming, but were unable to use the kit's kick pedal due to their disability. Ben Heck, modder extraordinaire, recently did the same for the Guitar Hero: World Tour set -- however, rather than attaching an extra button to drumsticks, Heck found an altogether brilliant method of using the set's foot-activated percussion: He made it breath-controlled.

It took a fair amount of fancy engineering, but Heck recently uploaded instructions to his blog that show how to remove the pedal's piezoelectric sensor, and make it respond to air pressure rather than, well, foot pressure. You can get further details on the modification, as well as a video of Heck giving it a test run, on his site. It's definitely an intriguing idea, though it more or less prohibits the drummer from simultaneously singing, making Phil Collins role-playing a near impossibility. Still, great work, Ben!

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqBen Heck creates breath-controlled drum pedal for Guitar Hero World Tour originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Mar 2009 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben-heckdrum-pedaldrumsguitar-hero-world-tourhandicappedmodWed, 04 Mar 2009 14:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero World Tour standalone drums, guitar available now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/16/guitar-hero-world-tour-standalone-drums-guitar-available-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/16/guitar-hero-world-tour-standalone-drums-guitar-available-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/16/guitar-hero-world-tour-standalone-drums-guitar-available-now/#comments
Releasing right on schedule, standalone versions of Guitar Hero World Tour's drums and guitar are now available at retail. The percussion set and the axe have a suggested retail price of $100 and $70, respectively. The Guitar Hero community site notes the items are available at Best Buy and Gamestop, but we've also seen them available online at Amazon.

The standalone plastic peripherals are currently available only in North America. Europe and Australia will receive the items at "a later date." If you have any questions regarding the compatibility of the items across rhythm games, please check out our "Instrument Compatibility Matrix" for a complete rundown.

JoystiqGuitar Hero World Tour standalone drums, guitar available now originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Feb 2009 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondrumsghwtguitarguitar-hero-world-tourMicrosoftNintendoWiiXbox-360Mon, 16 Feb 2009 19:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Blondie drummer and UK Universities study effects of drumming games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/10/blondie-drummer-and-uk-universities-study-effects-of-drumming-ga/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/10/blondie-drummer-and-uk-universities-study-effects-of-drumming-ga/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/10/blondie-drummer-and-uk-universities-study-effects-of-drumming-ga/#comments
Playing drums in games like Rock Band and Guitar Hero: World Tour could be far more beneficial than you may think. A study being conducted by the universities of Chichester and Gloucestershire, in collaboration with Blondie drummer Clem Burke, seeks to show the physical and mental benefits from banging away on a plastic kit.

Dr. Marcus Smith, Principal Lecturer in Exercise Physiology at the University of Chichester, explains that he's "particularly interested" in seeing how the drumming affects "child and adult obesity, autism, stroke patients, disengaged communities, and health and mental well-being in the workplace." Regarding that last part, Dr. Smith thinks that a game like Guitar Hero: World Tour could do a lot of good in the workplace, saying the game could be like "a rock venue," lowering stress and increasing "productivity for the business." Sure, if something is going to get your workers to pump out those Excel spreadsheets faster, it's taking a quick break to sing some Elvis Costello.

[Via GameDaily]

JoystiqBlondie drummer and UK Universities study effects of drumming games originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Feb 2009 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blondieclem-burkedrum-kitdrummingdrumsstudyuniversityTue, 10 Feb 2009 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero: Metallica includes extra pedal so you can try to be Lars Ulrich [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/19/guitar-hero-metallica-includes-extra-pedal-so-you-can-try-to-be/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/19/guitar-hero-metallica-includes-extra-pedal-so-you-can-try-to-be/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/19/guitar-hero-metallica-includes-extra-pedal-so-you-can-try-to-be/#commentsFiled under: ,


A listing for upcoming Guitar Hero: Metallica has popped up on GameStop, along with an interesting bonus for pre-ordering the game. According to the site, the game will include a bonus drum pedal, along with a splitter, which will allow would-be rockers to drum with dual pedals if you order early. You know, just like Lars Ulrich.

The listing is for the Xbox 360 version of the game, but it's a safe bet to expect this for Wii. It's a multiplatform game after all and if one version is going to offer dual pedals, we doubt it would be excluded from the other versions and a bonus exclusive to the Xbox.

Update: Added further clarification that this is a pre-order bonus.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqGuitar Hero: Metallica includes extra pedal so you can try to be Lars Ulrich [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Jan 2009 12:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionactivision-blizzarddrum-pedaldrumsguitar-heroguitar-hero-metallicametallicamusicpedalrhythmMon, 19 Jan 2009 12:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero: Metallica pre-orders come with bonus drum pedal]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/18/guitar-hero-metallica-pre-orders-come-with-bonus-drum-pedal/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/18/guitar-hero-metallica-pre-orders-come-with-bonus-drum-pedal/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/18/guitar-hero-metallica-pre-orders-come-with-bonus-drum-pedal/#commentsFiled under:


There's a thick cloud of fear hanging over fans of faux-drumming in games like Rock Band and Guitar Hero: World Tour -- fear inspired by the near-impossible rhythms which will need to be kept when Guitar Hero: Metallica hits store shelves. We're not sure how familiar you guys are with the speed with which Mr. Ulrich is capable of producing percussion, but we assure you, his work will be most unpleasant to attempt to mimic.

Thankfully, an uncharacteristically useful pre-order bonus from GameStop will give the game's quick-to-act reservers an extra bass drum pedal and input splitter. This will allow the player to use both pedals to tackle the game's more heel-punishing tracks. It's certainly a better option than splitting your foot down the middle, and training yourself to control both halves independently, which, now that we think about it, would be pretty rock-and-roll.

JoystiqGuitar Hero: Metallica pre-orders come with bonus drum pedal originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 18 Jan 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonusdrum-pedaldrumsguitar-hero-metallicametallicapre-orderSun, 18 Jan 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Unused RB2 drum port to unlock hidden feature]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/04/unused-rock-band-2-drum-port-to-unlock-hidden-feature/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/04/unused-rock-band-2-drum-port-to-unlock-hidden-feature/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/04/unused-rock-band-2-drum-port-to-unlock-hidden-feature/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Well, well, well. As it turns out, Harmonix hasn't been entirely honest about the unused input on the back of the Rock Band 2 drum set. Sandwiched between the orange kick pedal and multi-colored cymbal ports (see above), the extra jack was initially explained away as an expansion port for a second kick pedal, as corroborated by a review guide sent to OXM UK: "It was stated in prior interviews/demos that this input was a jack for the second kick pedal," begins the explanation, before ending with the kicker, "which is not the case." Dun-dun-dunnnh.

The guide continues, teasing that Harmonix "has not revealed the functionality for this input," which will "be announced at a later date, along with further details for double-kick functionality." So ... the port is for a second kick pedal, after all? Along with a ... what? Perhaps Harmonix is vying to make good on one of a couple shelved Guitar Hero add-ons? You tell us.

JoystiqUnused RB2 drum port to unlock hidden feature originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Dec 2008 15:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drumsharmonixPS3rock-bandrock-band-2WiiXbox-360Thu, 04 Dec 2008 15:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band 2 drum kit hides mystery port]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/04/rock-band-2-drum-kit-hides-mystery-port/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/04/rock-band-2-drum-kit-hides-mystery-port/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/04/rock-band-2-drum-kit-hides-mystery-port/#commentsFiled under: ,


The updated drum kit for Rock Band 2 apparently has a mystery port located in the back. This port, which was speculated to be used for a second kicker, won't actually be used for that. This, of course, has led to all kinds of speculation about what it's function actually is. Could it support something new, like the Guitar Hero rumor we heard awhile back? Harmonix isn't saying, for now.

[Via Engadget; image courtesy of Joystiq]

Rock Band 2 vs. Guitar Hero: World Tour. For other systems, it's an arms race for the most features. For us, it's a battle to remove the fewest. For Australian Wii owners, the winner will be the game that actually gets released!

JoystiqRock Band 2 drum kit hides mystery port originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Dec 2008 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drum-kitdrumseaharmonixmtv-gamesmusicrhythmrock-bandrock-band-2Thu, 04 Dec 2008 13:40:00 EST<![CDATA[GHWT drum tuning app now available, Red Octane shipping midi-USB cables for free]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/01/ghwt-drum-tuning-app-now-available-red-octane-shipping-midi-usb/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/01/ghwt-drum-tuning-app-now-available-red-octane-shipping-midi-usb/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/01/ghwt-drum-tuning-app-now-available-red-octane-shipping-midi-usb/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Well, dear readers, we've got good news and we've got bad news ... and then we've got good news again. The (first) good news -- the promised Guitar Hero: World Tour drum tuning application is now available for download on Red Octane's customer support site. The bad news is that the application requires you to connect your drum kit to your computer using a midi-USB cable, which we imagine few of you actually possess. The (second) good news -- Red Octane is shipping these cables, free of charge, to anyone who requests one on their support site.

We suppose it's bad news that we'll be waiting for these cables to ship before we can give our drum kits some much-needed sensitivity training -- on the other hand, the fact that we won't be dealing with any suggestive, RealDoll-sized replacement boxes (or the resulting judgment from nosy neighbors) is good news indeed.

[Thanks, Eric G.]

JoystiqGHWT drum tuning app now available, Red Octane shipping midi-USB cables for free originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 01 Nov 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondrum-tuning-kitdrumsguitar-hero-world-tourmidi-usbPS2PS3red-octaneWiiXbox-360Sat, 01 Nov 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Activision gives sensitivity training to Guitar Hero: World Tour drums]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/activision-to-give-sensitivity-training-to-guitar-hero-world-to/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/activision-to-give-sensitivity-training-to-guitar-hero-world-to/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/activision-to-give-sensitivity-training-to-guitar-hero-world-to/#commentsFiled under: ,


Some Guitar Hero: World Tour players are reporting sensitivity issues with the drums -- basically, that they have to pound the hell out of them to register a hit. If you're tired of having to go all Keith Moon all the time, Activision and Neversoft have a solution for you, and it's kind of an unexpected one: drum sensitivity tuning software.

Activision has released Windows-based tuning software which will allow players to connect their drum kits to their PCs and manually alter the sensitivity of each input. If that doesn't help, provided your overworked (but totally buff) arms can deal with the searing pain of motion long enough to lift the phone, you can report your sensitivity issues to Activision online or by phone at (310)255-2050.


[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqActivision gives sensitivity training to Guitar Hero: World Tour drums originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Oct 2008 17:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondrumsguitar-heroguitar-hero-world-tourmusicneversoftredoctaneWed, 29 Oct 2008 17:17:00 EST<![CDATA[GHWT drum tuning app coming soon, ION Drum Rocker patch now live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/gh-wt-drum-tuning-app-coming-soon-ion-drum-rocker-patch-now-liv/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/gh-wt-drum-tuning-app-coming-soon-ion-drum-rocker-patch-now-liv/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/gh-wt-drum-tuning-app-coming-soon-ion-drum-rocker-patch-now-liv/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

In addition to announcing new track packs, Neversoft has issued a trio of updates concerning the Guitar Hero World Tour drumset. First off, those who have been experiencing sensitivity issues with the set will be happy to know that the developer will be releasing a drum controller tuning kit for Windows "very soon," so users can self-tune their skins at home. Neversoft also recommends that if you're currently having issues, you should contact Activision customer support.

For Xbox 360 owners, the ION Drum Rocker compatibility patch should now be available for download. As for PlayStation 3 owners still waiting on the promised GHWT drum compatibility with Rock Band 2, Neversoft said it's all up to Harmonix to release an update for the game. We'll poke them again to see if we can get an ETA on that patch.

JoystiqGHWT drum tuning app coming soon, ION Drum Rocker patch now live originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Oct 2008 11:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionBreakingNewsdrum-compatibilitydrum-tuning-kitdrumsghwtguitar-heroguitar-hero-world-tourneversoftPS2PS3rock-band-2WiiXbox-360Wed, 29 Oct 2008 11:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Some Guitar Hero World Tour peripherals not functioning properly]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/26/report-some-guitar-hero-world-tour-peripherals-not-functioning/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/26/report-some-guitar-hero-world-tour-peripherals-not-functioning/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/26/report-some-guitar-hero-world-tour-peripherals-not-functioning/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Many of us will find it easy to imagine the following scenario, having lived it a little over a year ago with the release of an alarmingly similar title -- hordes of rhythm game junkies returned home last night from midnight launch parties at various retailers, cumbersome Guitar Hero: World Tour bundles in tow. Shortly after failing "Eye of the Tiger" for the third time in a row, an upsetting discovery is made -- one (or more) of the bundled instruments doesn't work as intended. The rocking is abated! Hearts are broken! Hands are wrung! Teeth are gnashed!

Sadly, such a scenario has reportedly been experienced by many a concerned forum poster, as threads stating issues with the game's peripherals have sprung up like discontent weeds. Their complaints are many -- one GameFAQs thread includes reports from players with unresponsive cymbals and, less commonly, drum heads; some posters decry their guitar's inability to register every strum; and some complain of faulty fret buttons.

We should point out that there are a number of forum posters who have stated complete satisfaction with their newly acquired fake instruments -- still, Activision has been quick to direct those with busted periphs to their customer service page, where information on how to get warranty replacements from RedOctane is given. We certainly hope the replacement process is a speedy one -- not that you don't already have a gaggle of fully functional instrumentrollers strewn across your den.

[Thanks, Neb.]

JoystiqReport: Some Guitar Hero World Tour peripherals not functioning properly originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 26 Oct 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondrumsguitarguitar-hero-world-tourinstrumentsneversoftperipheralsPS2PS3red-octaneWiiXbox-360Sun, 26 Oct 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band portable drum kit is not 'NunchukPlus']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/23/rock-band-portable-drum-kit-is-not-the-nunchukplus/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/23/rock-band-portable-drum-kit-is-not-the-nunchukplus/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/23/rock-band-portable-drum-kit-is-not-the-nunchukplus/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

mad catz
While it looks like one helluva Wiimote attachment, this gangly peripheral is actually a portable Rock Band (or more appropriately, Rock Band 2) drum kit made by Mad Catz for Xbox 360. So no, we won't be flailing the loose ends about as we race our karts through Moo Moo Meadows. We're told the pads must be laid flat, like on a sturdy coffee table (best not glass) -- or in our case: the unpaid intern's back, or better, draped over his neck like some gaudy Jesus piece -- and repeatedly smashed to the beat of the on-screen cues. We're currently testing the "designed to withstand over 1 million strikes" certification, though the same intern has begun to complain that his wrist hurts. To which we reply: "Dude, stop hitting yourself." (Yeah, we're evil like that.)

The "Official Rock Band Portable Drum Kit for Xbox 360" is currently in limbo on GameShark for $59.99 (and Buy.com for $10 less).

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqRock Band portable drum kit is not 'NunchukPlus' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Sep 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drum-kitdrumsmad-catzportablerock-bandrock-band-2Xbox-360Tue, 23 Sep 2008 17:00:00 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[Wii Music's infamous drums]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/11/wii-musics-infamous-drums/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/11/wii-musics-infamous-drums/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/11/wii-musics-infamous-drums/#commentsFiled under:


We've all seen a fairly spastic, embarrassing live demonstration of Wii Music's drum kit -- or at least the GIF version. Honestly, it seemed pretty cool from inside the theatre, with the strobe lights flashing and the volume turned way up. It was only after arriving home and seeing Ravi Drums' performance through the filter of the Internet that face hit palm. We knew that it was confusing to play, but we didn't know until then how confusing it was to see.

This latest Wii Music "Today's Instrument" video doesn't include the Balance Board bass drum, but the same flailing is on display here. Not pictured: being unable to figure out which direction on the D-pad corresponds to which drum.

JoystiqWii Music's infamous drums originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Sep 2008 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualdrumsmusictodays-instrumentwii-musicThu, 11 Sep 2008 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[ION Drum Rocker: Unboxing and initial impressions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/25/ion-drum-rocker-unboxing-and-initial-impressions/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/25/ion-drum-rocker-unboxing-and-initial-impressions/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/25/ion-drum-rocker-unboxing-and-initial-impressions/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Update: The cymbals problems discussed below relate to a faulty "brain" for the set that ION replaced for us before the final review.

Over the past week, we've had a chance to check out ION's premium Rock Band 2 drum set, the Drum Rocker (We've played it once before at E3 2008). We're waiting for a copy of RB2 for our final impressions; in the meantime, here are our initial thoughts of the set with the original Rock Band.
  • Our order arrived in two boxes weighing in at 33 lbs. and 6 lbs., respectively. The lighter box contained the third cymbal and colored discs to put on all three cymbals for differentiation.
  • Total time to unbox: 20 minutes (although, to be fair, we were taking a lot of pictures). That said, total time for setup (no camera usage) was close to an hour, with a large amount of time spent trying to screw in the cymbal clamps. Just another 2 or 3 mm on the screw length and we would've had a much easier time here.
  • Protip: Make sure you screw everything in very tight, or you'll be having to either pause the game to make fixes mid-song or learn to adjust to the added difficult of a drooping tom or cymbal. Even then, adjustments will have to be made to get the toms placed just right.
Read on for more impressions.

Gallery: ION Drum Rocker: Unboxing, Set Up and Impressions

Continue reading ION Drum Rocker: Unboxing and initial impressions

JoystiqION Drum Rocker: Unboxing and initial impressions originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Aug 2008 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drumdrum-rockerdrum-setdrumshands-onharmoniximpressionsionjoystiqfeaturesrock-bandrock-band-2Xbox-360Mon, 25 Aug 2008 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Revolution drum compatibility detailed; game 'on track' for '08]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/22/rock-revolution-drum-compatability-detailed-on-track-for-na/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/22/rock-revolution-drum-compatability-detailed-on-track-for-na/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/22/rock-revolution-drum-compatability-detailed-on-track-for-na/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Konami has detailed how its seven-input drum set will be compatible with Rock Band 2 and Guitar Hero: World Tour's kits, which have four and five inputs, respectively. We've been informed that the game will "reconfigure" itself depending on the set being used with the game. For example, instead of seven lines of music, it will adjust to four when using the Rock Band 2 drums and five for GH:WT. The company expects its drums to be compatible with the competition's via a patch issued after launch.

The company has also told us that reports of the game's delay to 2009 only applies to Europe. The game is "still on track for a fall 2008" release in North America. We're sure all the rhythm-game fanboys out there are breathing a sigh of relief ... right? Hello?

JoystiqRock Revolution drum compatibility detailed; game 'on track' for '08 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Aug 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>compatibilitydrumdrumskonamiPS3rock-revolutionWiiXbox-360Fri, 22 Aug 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Introducing the Instrument Compatibility Matrix v3.0]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/introducing-the-instrument-compatibility-matrix-v3-0/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/introducing-the-instrument-compatibility-matrix-v3-0/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/introducing-the-instrument-compatibility-matrix-v3-0/#commentsFiled under:


Do you like rhythm games? Heck, who doesn't?! We sure do, as do our cruel overlords at Joystiq, who've fashioned together the ultimate instrument compatibility guide. Wondering if that certain piece of Rock Band equipment will work with Guitar Hero: World Tour? Don't fret, it's answered here! So head on over and check it out. It'll even let those of you picking up Rock Revolution know if Konami's drum set will work with the other games!

JoystiqIntroducing the Instrument Compatibility Matrix v3.0 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drumsguitarguitar-heroguitarsrhythmrock-bandrock-revolutionTue, 19 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq's Instrument Compatibility Matrix, v3.0]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/joystiqs-instrument-compatibility-matrix-v3-0/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/joystiqs-instrument-compatibility-matrix-v3-0/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/joystiqs-instrument-compatibility-matrix-v3-0/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

With Sony shedding some new light on the sea of plastic instrument compatibility nonsense, we thought it was time to update our compatibility charts for the Guitar Hero and Rock Band series, as well as newcomer Rock Revolution. Introducing the Instrument Compatibility Matrix, version 3.0. We'll keep updating this page as new information percolates out, hoping one day to fill in every square with a green "yes." Until that time, check out our chart skills.

Update: Now with more green care of Microsoft's compatibility commitment.

JoystiqJoystiq's Instrument Compatibility Matrix, v3.0 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncomparisoncomparison-chartcompatibilitydrumsghwtguitarguitar-heroguitar-hero-world-tourharmonixjoystiqfeatureskonamimatrixneversoftPS3rock-bandrock-band-2rock-revolutiontabulatorWiiXbox-360Tue, 19 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq E3 sticks-on: Ion premium drum set]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/joystiq-e3-sticks-on-ion-premium-drum-set/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/joystiq-e3-sticks-on-ion-premium-drum-set/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/joystiq-e3-sticks-on-ion-premium-drum-set/#commentsFiled under: , ,


click to embiggen
Last week, a handful of Joystiq crew got to make fools of themselves on the mini-stage before Harmonix's Rock Band Bash featuring The Who. Set up for us on stage was the new Ion premium drum set for RB2. Over the span of the night, we drummed through a handful of songs to get a feel for the set.

Continue reading Joystiq E3 sticks-on: Ion premium drum set

JoystiqJoystiq E3 sticks-on: Ion premium drum set originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Jul 2008 06:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drumse3e3-2008ionion-premium-setjosytiqfeaturesrock-bandrock-band-2Xbox-360Tue, 22 Jul 2008 06:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mad Catz shows off line of Rock Band 2 peripherals at E3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/19/mad-catz-shows-off-line-of-rock-band-2-peripherals-at-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/19/mad-catz-shows-off-line-of-rock-band-2-peripherals-at-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/19/mad-catz-shows-off-line-of-rock-band-2-peripherals-at-e3/#commentsFiled under: ,


We all know that the talent of a musical performer is less important than the instrument through which they channel their rocking energies -- that's why we were pleased as punch to get a look at Mad Catz's impressive line of Rock Band 2 peripherals during E3. Sure, $200 might sound outrageous for a controller, but after viewing their full-sized (and realistically weighted) wireless Stratocaster and Precision Bass guitars, complete with foot pedals for easier "overdrive" activation, the list of things we would rather drop two Benjamins on quickly evaporated.

The heavyweight axes will be available Q1 2009, but Engadget got a sneak peek at some of Catz's less publicized periphs, due out this fall. These include M.I.C. ($30), a microphone with built-in buttons from a standard Xbox 360 controller, Portable Drums ($60), which include four flat pads that can be used on any surface, the "Official Cymbals" ($30 for 3 or $15 each), which will plug into three slots on the kit's center console, and the Kick Drum Screen -- though we're not exactly comfortable calling a circular piece of cardboard you apply to the front of your faux drum kit a "peripheral".

JoystiqMad Catz shows off line of Rock Band 2 peripherals at E3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 19 Jul 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>basscymbalsdrumsguitarmad-catzperipheralsprecision-bassrock-band-2stratocasterXbox-360Sat, 19 Jul 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ion reveals $299.99 price for premium Rock Band drums]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/ion-reveals-299-99-price-for-premium-rock-band-drums/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/ion-reveals-299-99-price-for-premium-rock-band-drums/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/ion-reveals-299-99-price-for-premium-rock-band-drums/#commentsFiled under: ,

Thought $180 for the original Rock Band package was expensive? You ain't seen nothing yet. The official Web site for Ion's professional Drum Rocker (as recently revealed in Game Informer) lists a $299.99 price for the deluxe drum controller. Only the Xbox 360 version of the set is currently available for pre-order, though Wii and PS3 editions are "expected to ship later in the year," according to the site. It's important to note that this is not the official drum set that will be packaged with Rock Band 2, but rather an officially licensed deluxe set that works with both Rock Band games.

While $300 may sound steep (soon, you could get a whole 'nother Xbox 360 for that price), Ion sounds like they've gone to great lengths to make sure serious virtual drummers get their money's worth. According to the site, the four high-durability, quiet, velocity-sensitive pads can be mounted and rearranged in any position and even outfitted with "professional drum brains" from Alesis. Add in a metal-reinforced kick pedal (with velcro and spikes to prevent slippage) and two packaged, mountable cymbals (with the option to add a third) and you've got what's unquestionably the Rolls Royce of drum controllers.

The web site also has a short video and some detailed photos of the set, so check it out and figure out for yourself whether it's worth dropping three Benjamins.

JoystiqIon reveals $299.99 price for premium Rock Band drums originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Jul 2008 18:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alesisbreakingnewsdrum-rockerdrumsEAElectronic-ArtsIonmtvMTV-gamerock-bandrock-band-2Xbox-360Fri, 11 Jul 2008 18:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Game Informer reveals 'Ion' premium Rock Band 2 drum kit]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/game-informer-reveals-ion-premium-rock-band-2-drum-kit/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/game-informer-reveals-ion-premium-rock-band-2-drum-kit/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/game-informer-reveals-ion-premium-rock-band-2-drum-kit/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The latest issue of Game Informer (via Score Hero) has a feature spread on Rock Band 2 and, while most of the information was released online yesterday, the magazine does have images of the new drum kit, both the upgraded basic and Ion Premium Set. The upgrades to the basic set include metal reinforcements on the foot pedal, velocity sensitive pads and expandable slots for cymbals.

The Ion set is a different beast altogether. As seen in the scan, the set gives you the option of playing the yellow, green and blue pads as cymbals. There is no indication on if you can use the cymbals for songs with long stretches of red notes used for the hi-hat beats (e.g. "Everlong"). The Ion set can purportedly be used as a real, 7-piece electronic set (albeit sans hi-hat pedal, unless we can upgrade), which then begs the question if we could find a way to make this compatible with Guitar Hero World Tour.

We're hoping to get a chance to try out the premium set next week at E3. The latest Game Informer is currently on newsstands.

Update: Made the image text red so no one got their hopes up too high by overlooking it. It should be noted that the above set is produced by ION, although the Rock Band 2 version is admittedly prettier.

JoystiqGame Informer reveals 'Ion' premium Rock Band 2 drum kit originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jul 2008 22:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drum-setdrumsion-drum-kitPS3rock-bandrock-band-2Xbox-360Thu, 10 Jul 2008 22:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Konami wants music peripherals to be universally compatible]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/konami-wants-music-peripherals-to-be-universally-compatible/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/konami-wants-music-peripherals-to-be-universally-compatible/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/konami-wants-music-peripherals-to-be-universally-compatible/#commentsFiled under: ,

Rhythm game fans seem to be in a tough spot. It used to be that we could just buy whatever interested us, and that was that. Now, as new peripheral after new peripheral gets manufactured (of the same instruments), there's a problem: we're running out of space. Not all of us live in big, swanky mansions (or even small, cozy houses for that matter). Another problem? Money. Faux guitars and drum sets don't come cheap, so buying multiple game instruments isn't very economical.

Konami feels our pain, which may end up being their pain if people start avoiding Rock Revolution. We think Konami might be in a lot of trouble, since Rock Band and Guitar Hero are already well-established in the gaming world. Rock Revolution is the new kid on the block, and if people already have closets full of peripherals and empty wallets, the game might suffer for it. Since Guitar Hero is currently the most owned of the bunch, Activision has no plans to make things any easier for its competitors. Harmonix, meanwhile, preaches universal instruments, but Rock Band's drum set might be too different from Rock Revolution's to even aim for compatibility.

What do you think, though? Is there room for another multi-instrument rhythm game in today's market?

[Via GamesIndustry.biz]

JoystiqKonami wants music peripherals to be universally compatible originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Jun 2008 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncompatibilitydrumsguitarguitar-heroharmonixinstrumentskonamimusicrhythmrock-bandrock-revolutionThu, 26 Jun 2008 08:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Ultimate Band uses ultimate pantomime]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/ultimate-band-uses-ultimate-pantomime/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/ultimate-band-uses-ultimate-pantomime/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/ultimate-band-uses-ultimate-pantomime/#commentsFiled under: ,


Okay, so Disney's Ultimate Band will eternally be overshadowed by the multi-instrumental extravaganza Guitar Hero: World Tour, and even by the irritating Wii version of Rock Band. And it's true that Ultimate Band suffers from a case of miserable cover songs. But Disney and Fall Line Studios have impressed us with smart design that plays to the Wii controllers' strengths.

Rather than merely simulating the experience of having a guitar or drum controller, producer Manferd Naber explains that Ultimate Band takes an impressionistic approach to simulating the act of playing music. You play notes in time to music as usual, but there's also an emphasis on rock-star gestures like the Pete Townshend windmill maneuver or "a belt buckle spin a la ZZ Top."

The lack of actual singing is also turned into an interestingly bizarre gameplay mechanic. As the "Frontman," players wave around with the controllers representing their hands, to "pump up the crowd." Ultimate Band may turn out less than great, but at least it's going for something original.

JoystiqUltimate Band uses ultimate pantomime originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>disneydrumsfall-lineguitarmusicultimate-bandMon, 23 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[This Week in Review wants to rock (ROCK!)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/this-week-in-review-wants-to-rock-rock/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/this-week-in-review-wants-to-rock-rock/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/this-week-in-review-wants-to-rock-rock/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A multi-instrument Guitar Hero World Tour means only one thing: more plastic controllers strewn about our living room. So goes the life of the virtual rocker. Check out all of our impressions and reviews from the Joystiq Network this week:

Multiplatform
Nintendo Wii
Check out the Wii Fanboy review archives!

Continue reading This Week in Review wants to rock (ROCK!)

JoystiqThis Week in Review wants to rock (ROCK!) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Jun 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drumsDSgarthPS3this-week-in-reviewwaynes-worldWiiXbox-360Fri, 20 Jun 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Comparing Rock Band Wii drums with current drum kit]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/comparing-rock-band-wii-drums-with-current-drum-kit/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/comparing-rock-band-wii-drums-with-current-drum-kit/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/comparing-rock-band-wii-drums-with-current-drum-kit/#commentsFiled under: , ,


For those of you still down with Rock Band for the Wii, despite its lack of DLC, you'll be interested to know that IGN recently took the Wii drum kit for a spin. Apparently, when Rock Band first released on the PS3 and Xbox 360, some folks were having trouble with the bass pedal (among other things), so a revision to the hardware was initiated. With the Wii drum kit, all of those changes are already in effect.

IGN says it best, though: "If you have the option, buy Rock Band for any console that's not the Wii, as you'll get the same drums (in black) and have access to downloadable content." Seriously, the Wii version isn't going to be that good, but if it's your only option, we wish you the best in rocking out and cross our fingers that Rock Band 2 isn't as lacking in the features department when it hits retail shelves.

JoystiqComparing Rock Band Wii drums with current drum kit originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jun 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drum-kitdrumseaelectronic-artsharmonixrock-bandWed, 11 Jun 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Control chaotic NES noise with custom drum software and controller]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/control-chaotic-nes-noise-with-custom-drum-software-and-controll/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/control-chaotic-nes-noise-with-custom-drum-software-and-controll/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/control-chaotic-nes-noise-with-custom-drum-software-and-controll/#commentsFiled under: ,


Ever wanted to make music that sounded like stuff exploding in Contra? The Elecrokraft Super Synth Drum set, consisting of a custom NES controller and a special cartridge, allows you to play 8-bit drums just by pushing controller buttons. You could do it on any two NES controllers, but the Sonic DrumAxe controller is a lot easier for one person to manage.

The program is pretty slick: controller 1's buttons make tones, and controller 2's buttons control on-the-fly looping. It's available on the creator's website for $50. Apparently he sells DrumAxes on eBay occasionally, but none are currently available. After the break, we've got a demonstration of the amazing DrumAxe/Super Synth Drums at work.

Continue reading Control chaotic NES noise with custom drum software and controller

JoystiqControl chaotic NES noise with custom drum software and controller originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jun 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drumsnessonic-drum-axesuper-synth-drumssynthFri, 06 Jun 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Friday Video: Rock Band in the blind]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/friday-video-rock-band-in-the-blind/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/friday-video-rock-band-in-the-blind/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/friday-video-rock-band-in-the-blind/#commentsFiled under:


With Rock Band coming out shortly, we know some of you are still excited for the game, despite its shortcomings. But, that isn't the topic of discussion here, the topic of discussion is OHMYGOD 5 STARS WITH NO TV ON?! Ahem, sorry -- can you believe that he just got 5 stars on Molly Hatchet's "Flirtin' With Disaster" with the TV off? That's pretty darn good, if you ask us.

Now if this dude got together with the Guitar Hero virtuosos, he could be in the greatest fake band in the universe.

See also: Rock Band drum kit mod allows disabled gamers to get in on the action



Each week, our Friday Video segment takes a look at the gaming landscape online and brings forth an interesting video that (hopefully) gets the dialog started. Our previous week's coverage featured a video of Samus as a playable character in the Activision game, Marvel: Ultimate Alliance.

JoystiqFriday Video: Rock Band in the blind originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jun 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blindblindfolddrumdrum-kitdrumsrock-bandFri, 06 Jun 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band drum kit mod allows disabled gamers to get in on the action]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/rock-band-drum-kit-mod-allows-disabled-gamers-to-get-in-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/rock-band-drum-kit-mod-allows-disabled-gamers-to-get-in-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/rock-band-drum-kit-mod-allows-disabled-gamers-to-get-in-on/#commentsFiled under:


For us, no joy on this earth can compete with that of introducing someone to gaming. Whenever we stumble upon someone who hasn't heard of a game or knows little-to-nothing about a console, we find great pleasure in introducing them to the subject at hand. We could go on at length about what we find so interesting about Game X or Console Y, so our passion shows.

That's why this mod appeals to us so much. It allows an individual to get in on drumming in Rock Band, even if they're unfortunately confined to a wheelchair. If you want to do this mod yourself when Rock Band releases on Wii, hit up the guide here.


[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqRock Band drum kit mod allows disabled gamers to get in on the action originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drummingdrumsearock-bandrock-band-accessibility-modwheelchairTue, 03 Jun 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DIY: Make your Rock Band drum kit wheelchair accessible]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/01/diy-make-your-rock-band-drum-kit-wheelchair-accessible/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/01/diy-make-your-rock-band-drum-kit-wheelchair-accessible/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/01/diy-make-your-rock-band-drum-kit-wheelchair-accessible/#commentsFiled under: ,


The raw, unbridled power of The Rocking is an equal opportunity force that can be tapped by anyone with a strong enough desire to evoke its boundless energies. Unfortunately, physical restrains can often limit a person's personal rocking aptitude, as most instruments are not created with those with disabilities in mind. Take, for instance, the Rock Band drum kit, which has a pedal that cannot be operated by those inflicted with paraplegia and other ailments affecting the lower body.

Fortunately, for every peripheral made unaccessible to those with disabilities, there's an altruistic, MacGuyver-esque modder with a solution. The folks over at Kinetic Communications recently solved the bass drum dilemma with a doorbell receiver and some audio cable, placing the foot pedal substitute directly onto a pair of drumsticks -- and it only cost them around $20. If you're in need for a stick-pedal, they've got simple instructions on how to make your own. Rick Allen would be so very proud.

JoystiqDIY: Make your Rock Band drum kit wheelchair accessible originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 01 Jun 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drumdrumsdrumstickhandicapkineticcommunicationsmodparaplegiapedalperipheralrock-bandrockbandSun, 01 Jun 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero World Tour drums compatible with drummers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/26/guitar-hero-world-tour-drums-compatible-with-drummers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/26/guitar-hero-world-tour-drums-compatible-with-drummers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/26/guitar-hero-world-tour-drums-compatible-with-drummers/#commentsFiled under: ,


Activision invited some celebrity drummers to be seen playing test the Guitar Hero World Tour drum kit, including The Police's Stewart Copeland, Blink 182's Travis Barker, and The Red Hot Chili Peppers' Chad Smith (who looks exactly like Will Ferrell). The three talk about the more realistic layout of the new drum controller, and, of course, how awesome drumming is. Surprise! They love Guitar Hero, and they love the new drum kit. Anything to lure kids into drumming before they know how their future bandmates will regard them!

The video is suspiciously light on footage of the three playing the controller, which leads us to think that maybe they all totally busted it. Barker, who can be seen performing motion capture for the game, mentions that on the expert level the drum charts are virtually identical to the real drum sequences in the original songs, which is actually very cool!

JoystiqGuitar Hero World Tour drums compatible with drummers originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 May 2008 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondrumsguitar-heroguitar-hero-world-tourmusicredoctaneMon, 26 May 2008 12:45:00 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[Here come the drums in this Guitar Hero World Tour trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/24/here-come-the-drums-in-this-guitar-hero-world-tour-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/24/here-come-the-drums-in-this-guitar-hero-world-tour-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/24/here-come-the-drums-in-this-guitar-hero-world-tour-trailer/#commentsFiled under:

"What's the best way to demonstrate how awesome the Guitar Hero World Tour drums are?" ponders the Activision Marketing department. Somehow the subsequent meeting resulted in some bright spark suggesting that they call in a few professional drummers to act completely up themselves and unrealistically compare GHIV's drums to a real set. Nice.

We're not prejudice towards Guitar Rock Hero Band World Tour. We're holding out until we can try all the aspects of the game first hand -- particularly the content creation stuff. In the meantime, however, videos like this don't really help. Did you hear the drums are wireless? We thought we'd mention it in case the video didn't push that point enough for you. That's sarcasm, by the way.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqHere come the drums in this Guitar Hero World Tour trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 24 May 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondrumsguitar-heroguitar-hero-ivneversoftSat, 24 May 2008 18:00:00 EST