GamesRadar - Guitar Hero World Tour

30 percent of Guitar Hero players are girls (News)

Oct 27, 2009

Activision's goal is to expand the franchise to attract new players with differing tastes, but Guitar Hero CEO Dan Rosensweig is quick to note that the franchise already has a large female following.

Rock Band to Get Rob Zombie, Wolfmother, Morningwood, And More (News)

Oct 23, 2009

WorthPlaying writes, "Grammy Award-nominated American metal rocker and former White Zombie frontman Rob Zombie adds to his Rock Band DLC catalog (currently "War Zone") with three new tracks for the Rock Band platform, including "Dragula" and "Superbeast," from his debut solo album, Hellbilly Deluxe, as well as "Burn," from his new album, Hellbilly Deluxe 2, to be released Nov. 17. Zombie also has a film currently playing in theaters – Halloween 2, which he wrote, directed and produced."

Guitar Hero 5, Band Hero and DJ Hero priced for SA (News)

Sep 11, 2009

Megarom has announced the local pricing of Guitar Hero 5, Band Hero and DJ Hero in South Africa.

Guitar Hero World Tour Band Kit $79.99 @ Future Shop (News)

Aug 10, 2009

NextGen Player writes:

"By happenstance I checked out the Future Shop eNewsletter today and noticed they're currently doing a Web Deals of the Day promotion until August 16. There are two deals for today, both are Guitar Hero World Tour bundles."

Guitar Hero Victory Track Pack Released (News)

Jul 9, 2009

Activision today released the Victory Track Pack for Guitar Hero World Tour on Xbox 360, PS3, and Wii. The pack includes the three tracks "NJ Legion Iced Tea" from A Day to Remember, "Bomb the World" from The Sleeping, and "I Am The Arsonist" by Silverstein.

GameStop May Have Some Deals for You (News)

Jul 8, 2009

BeefJack writes: "You may be able to get $100 off Guitar Hero World Tour tomorrow at GameStops. In addition, there may be some 200 price drops at the retailer, clearing space for the fall.

If there were any games released this spring that you haven't purchased yet, you may just want to check out your local GameStop tomorrow to see what kind of deals they are running."

GameStop starts huge Guitar Hero, Rock Band sale (News)

Jul 7, 2009

Ben Kuchera of ArsTechnica writes:

"The great thing about Guitar Hero and Rock Band packages is that they come in OMG-XBOX-HUGE packages. Why is that a great thing? Because boxes that big cost retailers money to store, which means that, with new rhythm games coming by the end of the year, it costs more to keep them around than it does to sell them at a huge discount. That means it's time to blast out existing inventory at OMG-GAMEBOY-MICRO prices. Let's take a look at what you can grab.

You have the name of the game, the system, the old price, and the price that the bundle is on sale for. If you don't have the game, or if you just need to pick up a few instruments to have as extras, this is a great time to do so."

Face melting deal: GHWT guitar and mic for $50, today only (News)

Jul 2, 2009

Everyone's favorite plastic peripheral purveyor Red Octane is having a bit of a deal today. The normally $60 wireless guitar and $20 wired microphone for Guitar Hero World Tour (across all platforms) are being offered together in a $50 package -- today only..

Amazon cuts Guitar Hero World Tour's price by $100 (News)

Jun 29, 2009

Examiner: "Amazon is discounting the price of Guitar Hero World Tour Band Bundle by as much as $100."

Jack White and Jimmy Page diss 'Guitar Hero' video game (News)

Jun 23, 2009

Both Jimmy Page (Led Zeppelin) and Jack White (The White Stripes) spoke last week at a press conference in Los Angeles detailing their forthcoming 'It Might Get Loud' documentary, according to NME.

When asked for their thoughts on the popular video game music genre, the band members didn't exactly have any kind words to say.

"It's depressing to have a label come and tell you that ['Guitar Hero'] is how kids are learning about music and experiencing music," Jack White said. Though he said he doesn't care "which format people should get their music in…if you have to be in a video game to get in front of them, that's a little sad."

Gamestop.com Music Blowout Sale (News)

Jun 9, 2009

Gamestop.com is running a huge blowout sale for many different bundles of Rock Band, Rock Band 2 SE, and Guitar Hero.

Music games off 36% this year, EA expects Rock Band sales down $400 million (News)

May 6, 2009

Buried in today's Elecrtonic Arts earnings call was this amazing revelation from COO John Pleasants: Revenue for music/rhythm games was down 36% during the first quarter of the year and 42% in March, per NPD. As a result, EA has cut the gross sales revenue it expects from its EA Partner division, which distributes "Rock Band" for Viacom.

That's a huge decline. And keep in mind that there weren't any major music game releases during the first quarter of last year, while 2009 saw "Guitar Hero: Metallica" (albeit at the very end of March). As we started to see in late 2008, sales of "Rock Band 2" and "Guitar Hero: World Tour" must be down massively from the original "Rock Band" and "Guitar Hero III."

And while EA CEO John Riccitiello said he feels "really bullish" about "Rock Band: Beatles Edition," the fact that the company is expecting $400 million less in sales indicates just how big an impact continued sales of "Rock Band" through last year mattered, and how far "Rock Band 2" is lagging.

Prince Talks About Guitar Hero, Turned Down an Offer to be in the Game (News)

May 1, 2009

Slashgamer: "Prince is considered to be one of the greatest musicians of our time. Honestly, even if for some reason you can't stand him, it's hard to argue his greatness, just look at his achievements. The artiest has won seven Grammy Awards, one Golden Globe and even an Academy Award for his work on Purple Rain.

Even with his legendary work, comes controversy. Without me getting to much into it, just go to his Wikipedia page and look under 'controversy.' With that said, PBS asked Prince on his thoughts about Guitar Hero. Although he didn't necessarily criticizes the rhythm game, he just doesn't think it should be a substitute for playing an actual guitar."

Guitar Hero World Tour Partners with Hit Musical We Will Rock You (News)

Apr 9, 2009

The critically acclaimed and longest-running musical at London's prestigious Dominion Theatre, We Will Rock You - based on the music of Queen - has partnered with Activision's Guitar Hero World Tour to offer patrons the ultimate night of rock. Before and after select performances of the hit musical, which embarks on its first UK tour this month, people will be able to rock with Guitar Hero World Tour to three of Queen's hit tracks, C-Lebrity, Fat Bottom Girls and We Are The Champions, as well as the entire 86-song on-disc set list, with prizes awarded to the best virtual performers. The game will also be featured at regional We Will Rock You preview and launch events, where members of the cast can mingle with press and VIPs.

Nyko's Metal Pedal for Rock Band and Guitar Hero now available (News)

Apr 1, 2009

Nyko's new heavy-duty drum pedal for Rock Band and Guitar Hero is now available in stores for $19.99.

The Metal Pedal is compatible with Rock Band 1 and 2, Guitar Hero: World Tour and Guitar Hero: Metallica on all consoles. Simply plug the pedal directly into the drum set and you are good to go!

The Top 7… games you either love or hate (Feature)

Mar 16, 2009

Like petty school children bickering in a playground fight, gamers are obsessed with choosing sides. Never content to rate a game as simply “above average” or “slightly disappointing,” we allow internet hearsay, magazine previews, fanboy feuds and console preferences to push our views to ridiculous extremes. We can’t just like something… we have to deem it BEST EVER. We can’t just dislike something… we have to declare it EPIC FAIL. ...

$40 Off Guitar Hero World Tour Band Kit (PS3/360/PS2) After Coupon at Red Octane (News)

Mar 10, 2009

KillerFocus of CheapAssGamer writes:

"Use coupon code BAND40 to get the Guitar Hero World Tour PS3/360 Band Kits for $130, and the PS2 version for $120. Free shipping."

Gibson Loses Guitar Hero Lawsuit (News)

Mar 2, 2009

A California court has thrown out a lawsuit filed by legendary guitar maker Gibson against Activision for allegedly violating a patent with their Guitar Hero games.

MCV Industry Excellence Awards 2009 Finalists Announced (News)

Feb 26, 2009

Taking place on Thursday April 23rd at The Brewery, Chiswell Street, London, this year's MCV Industry Excellence Awards will be the most hotly-contested ever, with 17 accolades up for grabs, across a diverse range of categories covering the entire industry.

Nintendo, EA, Ubisoft, Microsoft, Sega and Activision will battle it out for the Games Publisher Award, whilst individual titles Guitar Hero World Tour, GTA IV, FIFA 09, Fallout 3, Wii Fit and Call of Duty: World At War compete for Game Campaign.

Former Sega of America President Bernard Stolar lands new job at Vivo Products (News)

Feb 17, 2009

Consumer electronics manufacturer Vivo Products has announced a couple of changes in their corporate lineup today. Bernard Stolar has been appointed to Chairman of the Board and Kelli Richards assumes the role of VP Business Development&Content Partnerships.

Vivo currently boasts three products including a Jillian Michaels Flash Drive, Gene Simmons Axe, and the Vivo Video player. The famous Axe guitar from the legendary front man of KISS, Gene Simmons is forever immortalized in plastic by Vivo for use in Rock Band and Guitar Hero games on the Playstation 2 and Playstation 3 consoles. Jillian Michaels has her likeness on 2gb flash drives that are a compliment her Fitness Ultimatum Nintendo Wii game. The Vivo Video is touted as "the ultimate all-in-one mp3 and mp4 player".

Activision Sticking With A-Rod, Michael Phelps (News)

Feb 12, 2009

Yankees player Alex Rodriguez has admitted to steroid use and Olympic swimmer was recently spotted smoking pot but they won't be comically air-brushed out of the Guitar Hero: World Tour advertisements anytime soon. Activision is sticking by the embattled athletes.

School of Rock: Guitar Hero & Rock Band Summer Camps Announced (News)

Feb 7, 2009

Power Chord Academy, the nation's leading summer camp for amateur musician training, is excited to announce the addition of two new Summer programs!

GameROCKERS is an exclusive 3-day cutting edge game-musician program for the new age of musicians who play Guitar Hero or Rock Band. iROCKER is a 1-day version of the GameROCKERS program.

World Tour Doubles US Sales of Rock Band? ?2 (News)

Jan 27, 2009

GameSpot writes: "Last week the NPD Group, the industry standard of game-industry research firms, released its US sales figures for 2008. However, the company's top 10 game rankings only tracked individual products, or SKU (Stock Keeping Units), sold at retailers in the US.

As a result, it was unclear how two of the year's biggest rivals--Guitar Hero World Tour and Rock Band 2--fared against one another. Besides being multiplatform releases, the two solidly reviewed rhythm games each came in various retail configurations, such as a la carte or with one or more instruments."

UK Guitar Hero World Tour Rock Band ratio closer to 4:1, says Red Octane (News)

Jan 26, 2009

Off the back of the earlier news that Guitar Hero World Tour has outsold Rock Band by a ratio of 2:1, Red Octane's UK senior brand manager, Ian McClellan has said that in the UK, this figure is more like 4:1.

Guitar Hero: Metallica...The Songs (Full Setlist) (News)

Jan 24, 2009

Another piece of the Guitar Hero puzzle . . . the track listing! In case you're just tuning in now, the all 'Tallica Guitar Hero will be hitting the streets on March 29 with some really cool features like different classic venues such as the L.A. Forum, Tushino Airfield, and The Hammersmith Odeon, the ability to play as us or in single instrument mode, and even the Expert+ setting with double bass drum kick pedals.

So without further ado, here are the songs on the game . . . both from Metallica and from some of the bands they admire and even call friends:

Forbes writer responds to Rockband comment, still thinks it is a 'knockoff' (News)

Jan 23, 2009

Thatgamingsite writes: "Forbes Writer, Peter C. Beller has responded to criticisms made after calling music game 'Rockband' a shameless knockoff in comparison to Guitar Hero. Althought it looks like he's sticking to his guns on this one."

Forbes Magazine slams Rockband (News)

Jan 18, 2009

That Gaming Site writes: "Is Rock band a 'shameless' rip off of Guitar Hero? According to the latest article from Forbes Magazine it is."

Fender: Survey Shows Music Games Drive Students To Play Real Instruments (News)

Jan 15, 2009

Today Fender and Little Kids Rock, a non-profit music education organization, announced that an informal survey they conducted in November 2008 revealed that music games like "Rock Band" and "Guitar Hero" actually do inspire students to play real instruments. The survey polled 812 music instructors and said that enrollment in music programs has increased in the past year.

Eurogamer's Top 50 Games of 2008: 10-1 (News)

Dec 30, 2008

Here we are then, the final installment in our Top 50 Games of 2008. It's worth reiterating once again that the list is not intended as a definitive rundown of the 50 best games of the year, but instead reflects votes cast by our staff and contributors based on the games they have played and enjoyed.

Guitar Hero "Reaching its Peak" - Analyst (News)

Dec 8, 2008

Edge writes: "Lagging Guitar Hero: World Tour sales are an indication that Activision's explosively popular series is finally "reaching its peak," claimed Electronic Entertainment Design and Research analyst Jesse Divnich in a Monday research note.

Ahead of U.S. NPD Group November sales data, Divich said, "Currently, we expect unit sales to decline by more than 50 percent series-over-series for November. This is coming off the October month where series-over-series units declined by more than 60 percent."

Guitar Hero: World Tour sales had been initially hampered by tight supply, but now Ebay reseller prices are beginning to register below the bundle's $189 retail tag, "a strong indication that demand and supply are currently in equilibrium," said Divnich."

Defending the Plastic Guitar! (News)

Dec 5, 2008

That Gaming Site Writes: "I play real Guitar and Guitar Hero.

Being a fan of both, I've been subject to numerous arguments over and over about how playing Guitar Hero or Rock Band is a waste of time and that 'nerds' should try picking up a real instrument and do something productive for a change. It was in this week's edition of NME (a British Indie Music Publication) that brought me this comment, in an article that........"

Gene Simmons AXE Controller Launches (News)

Dec 4, 2008

...Gene Simmons has a lot to say about it.

"I never do anything half way. My AXE controller is the closest thing you can have to being onstage in KISS. I created and designed the Gene Simmons AXE bass guitar and I can't wait for the fans to experience it for themselves," said Gene Simmons. "The Gene Simmons AXE guitar is such a recognizable symbol - people have been asking for a gaming replica ever since Guitar Hero was first introduced."

Resellers take advantage of World Tour shortages (News)

Nov 22, 2008

Shortages in the supply of Guitar Hero World Tour's full band kit for all platforms is driving resale demand to above the USD 300 mark.

Analysts at Cowen and Company downplayed concerns over the latest instalment of the Guitar Hero's sales, labelling them "overblown", and putting down the underperforming results to a limited supply - something the soon to be released PlayStation 2 SKU should go part way to solving.

However, the analyst group did say that the poor supply was being exploited by resellers selling the full kit at a cost many times higher than the retail price.

Nickelback slam Guitar Hero (News)

Nov 20, 2008

MCV: 'Rock Star' combo blame rhythm action titles for lack of new US bands

Guitar Hero World Tour's Dollar Sales More Than Double Rock Band 2 (News)

Nov 17, 2008

October was a pretty impressive month for the video game industry considering the overall economic environment in the U.S. Although neither Guitar Hero nor Rock Band made it into the NPD's top 10 selling games for the month, the two popular music franchises still helped boost sales overall. Guitar Hero World Tour placed 11th, 12th and 20th on the Xbox 360, Wii, and PS3, respectively, while Rock Band 2 for PS3 placed 16th.

What's more interesting, however, is a direct dollar sales comparison. According to data provided by Deutsche Bank Securities, Activision's Guitar Hero easily outsold MTV's Rock Band 2 (distributed by EA). Sales for Guitar Hero totaled $67 million for the month of October compared to just $27 million for Rock Band 2.

Sony Hands Microsoft Guitar Hero Advantage (News)

Nov 11, 2008

What is going on with the pricing of the DLC for Guitar Hero. Gameplayer are reporting some marjor variations between the PS3 and X360 version of the game online.

'Mario,' 'Zelda' Tunes Deleted From 'Guitar Hero' Music-Sharing Service (News)

Nov 9, 2008

Is it any surprise that some of the most popular tracks being created in "Guitar Hero: World Tour"'s music creation studio are ripped from video games?

When GH Tunes launched in late October, the most popular songs on the service were based on music from "Super Mario Bros." and "The Legend of Zelda."

But they aren't anymore.

Based on a recent search, those songs do not appear to be on the service any longer, likely a result of copyright infringement monitoring from Neversoft and Activision Blizzard - but they are still on my hard drive. The creators of the game can't remotely delete material.

However, the blips and bloops of Mario and Link have been replaced with other video game jingles, ranging from "Final Fantasy" to "Sonic the Hedgehog" and even "DOOM."

Kotick: Guitar Hero Song Creator Might Be Our 'Newest Subscription Opportunity' (News)

Nov 6, 2008

Gamasutra writes: "Having gained a stable subscription revenue base from World of Warcraft, Activision Blizzard may look to monetize some of its other titles through subscriptions -- like Guitar Hero, CEO Bobby Kotick said today.

Activision Blizzard beat estimates to the tune of $711 million in revenues for its first quarter as a combined company, the company revealed today.

Anticipating investor concerns about an uncertain economy, president and CEO Bobby Kotick reassured them on the company's results call that stable subscription revenue from World Of Warcraft "gives us advantages over many of our competitors -- especially as we enter the holidays.'"

Heidi Klum Dances In Underwear For Guitar Hero Commercial (News)

Nov 4, 2008

Harmonix and MTV may have secured the rights to use the Beatles' songs in an upcoming video game, but Guitar Hero publisher Activision has a black belt in marketing and fanboy-baiting. They've just released a commercial for Guitar Hero: World Tour that features super model Heidi Klum dancing around in her lingerie.

Guitar Hero: World Tour / Rock Band 2 - Drum track comparison pt. 1 (Video)

Oct 30, 2008

Guitar Hero branches out for its fourth core installment by adding drums and vocals to the mix, as well as allowing us to unleash our own musical creations upon the world via its in-built music studio.

Guitar Hero: World Tour / Rock Band 2 - Drum track comparison pt. 2 (Video)

Oct 30, 2008

Brett Ratner Directed the Guitar Hero Commercial (News)

Oct 30, 2008

Slashgamer Writes: "Remember the Guitar Hero commercial featuring some of America's favorite athletes (besides A-Rod) that we posted a few days ago? Well you're not going to believe who directed it. Brett Ratner (Rush Hour) was the mastermind behind the commercial. Of course when I use the term mastermind I use it loosely…very loosely."

Tongues out for the Kiss Guitar Hero controller (News)

Oct 29, 2008

"Want something that looks just that little bit more authentic when you're playing Guitar Hero?

How about a three-quarter replica of Gene Simmons' guitar from Kiss?

Yes folks. You too can paint your face black and white and strut around the living room with your unfeasibly long tongue hanging out as you get to grips with the latest Guitar Hero game..."

Excerpt quoted from PS3 Attitude

Guitar Hero World Tour DLC - Jimi Hendrix and The Raconteurs Available in November (News)

Oct 28, 2008

The Raconteurs and Jimi Hendrix will both take to the virtual stage this November as DLC in Activision's Guitar Hero: World Tour.

Activision Issues Statement Addressing Broken Drum Complaints (News)

Oct 28, 2008

1UP writes: "Activision has issued a formal statement addressing the growing complaints over defective Guitar Hero World Tour drum kits, which have spread across the Internet over the last 48 hours since the game was released. Calling the defects "an isolated manufacturing issue," Activision contends the problem only lies with drums made earlier in the manufacturing stage, and promises a "drum tuning kit" that presumably will allow gamers to fix their drums themselves.

We have learned that certain drum kit controllers manufactured for Guitar Hero World Tour have sensitivity issues. We believe that these controllers are limited to ones in the earlier manufacturing stages. While we believe that this was an isolated manufacturing issue, we are stepping our efforts to randomly test our drum kit controllers so customers can be assured they work properly. In the event any consumers do experience problems with their drum kit controllers associated with sensitivity issues, Activision will soon be offering a drum tuning kit that will enable players to fully optimize their drums."

Buyers Complain of Faulty Guitar Hero World Tour Instruments (News)

Oct 28, 2008

ShackNews writes:

"Some buyers of Guitar Hero World Tour--which launched yesterday--are complaining of faulty instruments, mirroring the issues that afflicted last year's debut of the Harmonix-developed rival series Rock Band.

Complaints regarding the wireless drum kit focus on drum pads and cymbals that don't register every hit. The wireless guitar has also drawn criticism, with many, such as Shacknews' own GoS-CPT-Stewart and dblagent, finding that the guitars have stopped registering downward strums after a few hours."

How To Unlock Every 'Guitar Hero: World Tour' Song Right Away (News)

Oct 27, 2008

MTV Multiplayer writes:

"Are you tired of bringing home a new music game, inviting friends to rock and discovering most of the good songs have to be unlocked?

"Guitar Hero: World Tour" - like every music game before it - is no different. But the developers have been generous enough to also include cheat codes!"

Guitar Hero World Tour - Launch trailer (Video)

Oct 27, 2008

Neocrisis: Guitar Hero World Tour DLC Revealed Wii (News)

Oct 26, 2008

Neocrisis: Here is the list of songs which can be downloaded on the Wii's version of Guitar Hero World Tour.

New Game Releases for the Week of October 26, 2008 (News)

Oct 25, 2008

Gamerdeals.net writes:

"The late October holiday assault continues with a loaded release week. Highlights include LittleBigPlanet (PS3), Fallout 3 (Xbox 360/PS3/PC), Guitar Hero World Tour (360/PS3/Wii/PS2), Motorstorm: Pacific Assault (PS3), Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3 (PC), plus much more!

Check out the full list of new video game releases (USA) for the week of October 26, 2008 on Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Nintendo Wii, Sony PS2, PSP, Nintendo DS, and PC!"

Logitech Answers Guitar Questions of Cross-Game Compatibility and Other Platforms (News)

Oct 25, 2008

Yesterday, Logitech revealed its new $250 wireless guitar controller for Guitar Hero for the PlayStation 2 and PlayStation 3. However, there were some questions about whether or not the peripheral would see a release for the Wii or Xbox 360, or if it would work with other non-Guitar Hero branded games. And now, those questions no longer remain unanswered.

$250 Guitar Hero Controller Made by Logitech (News)

Oct 23, 2008

Slashagamer writes: "For those who wanted to be a rock star but never achieved their dream, but pretend every night when they play Guitar Hero – this could be for them. Logitech has created a wireless guitar officially for Guitar Hero: World Tour."

X-Play's 'Guitar Hero World Tour' Special Tonight (News)

Oct 21, 2008

Tonight, X-Play's World Premiere Tuesdays continues with Adam Sessler and Morgan Webb bringing you a full episode devoted to Guitar Hero World Tour.

You'll get a look at the gameplay, how the game was made, the mapping and character creation of the game, the musicians and artists and how they got the music they got, as well as a preview and Hands-On of the game.

The game, developed by Neversoft and published by Activision, will release next week on the PS3, PS2, Wii, and Xbox 360 featuring an impressive song list with bands like Jimi Hendrix, Ozzy Osbourne, Tool, and more!

If you missed it, here's X-Play's All Access preview for Guitar Hero World Tour from earlier this year:

Oasis Joins Forces With Guitar Hero World Tour to Bring New Album, Dig Out Your Soul, as Downloadable Content (News)

Oct 17, 2008

'Bag it Up,' 'Waiting for the Rapture' and Hit Single 'The Shock of the Lightning' to arrive in November; Full Album Available in 2009.

Crazy Rock Band vs. Guitar Hero Price War (News)

Sep 26, 2008

Gameplayer has unearthed an interesting development in the pricing of Rock Band and Guitar Hero this Christmas that could change the way music game fans approach their purchases.

Activision pooh-poohs Rock Band's Success (News)

Sep 19, 2008

Ever since Sunday, Rock Band 2 has been the talk of the town. Xbox 360 owners have been digging deep into the game's new set list, as well as the online battle of the bands, instrument challenges, and revamped World Tour mode. You'd think that maybe we've all started to forget about a little franchise known as Guitar Hero, but according to Activision CEO Bobby Kotick, you'd be wrong. He would like to take a moment to remind you that Guitar Hero is still the world's number one music franchise.

Slash Leaks Guitar Hero: Hendrix? (News)

Sep 17, 2008

1UP writes: "In a Rolling Stone interview with Slash, the legendary guitarist discussed his new solo project, his random sexual conquests at a David Bowie concert, and -- here's the kicker -- a potential Jimi Hendrix-focused Guitar Hero.

Referring to the evolution of the Guitar Hero brand since he was featured in Guitar Hero III, Slash said the following:

"Well, having the Aerosmith guys do it was very cool 'cause Aerosmith's one of the bands I was heavily influenced by. And Metallica's doing it, that's great. Those are two ones that I think gives it some credibility. And they're doing a Hendrix one, which is great."

Now, this statement should be taken with more than a grain of salt. Remember that this is a musician we're talking about -- not an Activision representative -- and he may simply be referring to the inclusion of Hendrix's music and likeness in Guitar Hero World Tour. After all, it's not like it's his job to be totally clued-in on game industry happenings. We'll try and get a comment from Activision sometime today."

Guitar Hero DLC Subscription Being Evaluated by Activision, Plans to Make Lots of Money (News)

Sep 17, 2008

Shacknews writes: "Activision is considering a subscription service to deliver new songs monthly for its music-rhythm series Guitar Hero, according to Activision Publishing CEO Mike Griffith during Activision Blizzard's Analyst Day event yesterday. As Griffith explained:

Looking even further out, we're exploring new models, like an annual pass subscription where players can subscribe and get a certain number of songs downloadable each month.

No further details, such as a price or a start date for such a program, were made available. The plan would, however, be just part of Activision's plan to "monetize" the Guitar Hero series. "

'Guitar Hero' movie isn't happening...yet (News)

Sep 17, 2008

Director Brett Ratner has been plenty vocal about wanting to develop a movie based on the game Guitar Hero. But Activision, the company that owns the franchise, isn't going for it. "I'd really like to do it, but they're not letting me," he tells EW.com. "I expressed my interest, but because it's such a success, it's like now there's no reason to make a movie about it."

Ratner is a big fan of the game, incorporating it into videos he's directed for Miley Cyrus and Mariah Carey, and he envisioned a story about a small-town kid who dreams of fame and wins a Guitar Hero competition. "The game is wish-fulfilling, everyone can be a rock star."

But despite the setback, Ratner is not giving up hope. "I might prevail," he says. "I usually do."

Ted Nugent joins Guitar Hero: World Tour (News)

Sep 11, 2008

Eurogamer reports that Ted Nugent, the rocker that likes to shoot animals but doesn't drink or do drugs, has become the latest rock star to join the ranks of Guitar Hero: World Tour.

He, hopefully complete with cowboy hat and sleeveless top, will be both playable and open to battle challenges or co-operative jams.

Nugent also comes complete with 1975 smash hit "Stranglehold", one of many songs released during nearly 50 years of recording, which claimed over 35 million sales.

The Top 7... New franchises that already feel old (Feature)

Sep 8, 2008

Mario is a cultural phenomenon. Final Fantasy is epic. Resident Evil, Fallout, Diablo... all of these classic franchises will eventually be tossed away, but they won't be stamped with expiration dates anytime in the foreseeable future.

Other franchises started growing mold before they even left the grocery store shelves.

The somehow-less-inspired franchises may sell millions, contain lovable ...

Tool Confirmed For Guitar Hero: World Tour (News)

Sep 8, 2008

Kotaku: Stop asking, Tool fans. Actually, stop endlessly whining, because you've got your wish: Tool will be appearing in Guitar Hero: World Tour. Not literally appearing, mind you, as they won't be in-game characters, but they will have an in-game arena, which they co-designed and which will highlight "the art style that has become a staple in their music videos, live shows and album artwork". The songs featured are all of the more recent variety (no Forty-Six & 2, sorry), with Parabola and Schism from Lateralus joined by Vicarious, from 10,000 Days.

Play Tool on Fake Instruments (Guitar Hero) (News)

Sep 5, 2008

Edge writes: "Songs from Grammy-winning progressive metal band Tool will be part of Guitar Hero World Tour's growing roster of rock tunes, Activision announced Friday.

"Parabola" and "Schism," both from the 2001 album Lateralus, will be included in the game, along with "Vicarious" from the 2006 album 10,000 Days.

Activision also said Police frontman Sting will have music featured in the game. The singer/bassist is offering his voice and likeness for the title as an in-game character."

Sting playable in Guitar Hero World Tour (News)

Sep 5, 2008

Eurogamer writes: "Sting is the latest in a long line of rock-stars to be playable in Guitar Hero World Tour.

That's according to The Sun, to whom the former Police frontman admitted: "I tried to play Guitar Hero and I'm not very good. My kids can do it."

His nod of approval follows deals to replicate Jimi Hendrix, Ozzy Osbourne, Zakk Wylde and Billy Corgan in the Q4-bound game."

Aussie Guitar Hero World Tour full pricing revealed! (News)

Sep 4, 2008

Activision Blizzard have finally announced the pricing for the Australian version of Guitar Hero: World Tour for all consoles. The Wii version kicks off from $79.95AU for the game by itself and goes up to $159.95AU for a Guitar and the game. The most expensive option is the "Super Bundle" which contains the drums, a guitar, microphone and of course the game for $319.95AU. While that's just $80AU short of a Wii it's a lot cheaper than the $500AU that Rock Band is rumoured to cost when it arrives here. Guitar Hero: World Tour will hit Australian shelves on November 12, 2008.

Wayne Kramer, Sex Pistols, And Motorhead Re-Record For GH: World Tour (News)

Sep 3, 2008

Kotaku writes: "The only thing better than original master recordings in a rhythm game is having the original artists go back and do the whole thing over again, and Guitar Hero: World Tour is boasting three separate re-recordings on its set list when the game hits store shelves. In addition to The Sex Pistols' "Pretty Vacant" and Motorhead's "Overkill", MC5 guitarist Wayne Kramer has recruited a little help and hit the studio to re-record the classic "Kick Out the Jams". The new recording uses the original vocals from singer Rob Tyner from 1968, with Kramer, Alice in Chains (the press release says Alice "and" Chains) guitarist Jerry Cantrell and former Guns 'N' Roses guitarist Gilby Clarke."

The Smashing Pumpkins to Debut New Single 'G.L.O.W.' as Part of Downloadable Songpack Exclusively for Guitar Hero World Tour & New Trailer (News)

Sep 2, 2008

In-Game Model of Vocalist and Lead Guitarist, Billy Corgan, and 'Today' from Four Times-Platinum Album Siamese Dream To Rock On-Disc at Launch. Also inside is the Billy Corgan Trailer.

Guitar Hero World Tour – hands-on (Preview)

Sep 2, 2008

Los Angeles may be a town known for the highest excesses of rock n’ roll debauchery (with legendarily wayward rock acts such as Mötley Crüe and Guns N’ Roses synonymous with the city) but Activision’s headquarters – a dull grey box located in sleepy Santa Monica – is hardly the most thrilling place in the world to get our hands on with Guitar Hero World Tour for the first time. ...

The Smashing Pumpkins will release their new song "G.L.O.W" exclusively through Guitar Hero World Tour. (News)

Sep 2, 2008

In an absolute first for music the song G.L.O.W will be released on Guitar Hero before, not only Rock Band but before anywhere else.

Guitar Hero World Tour dated down under (News)

Sep 2, 2008

GameSpot AU reports that GH: World Tour will land down under on November 12.

GH dev mocks Rock Band cymbals (News)

Aug 28, 2008

It was never going to be pretty - and with Guitar Hero World Tour set to go head to head with Rock Band 2 this autumn, the rock 'n' roll royal rumble has begun in earnest.

Speaking to Eurogamer last week at Game Convention 2008, Guitar Hero director Brian Bright scorned Harmonix' attempts to match the feature set of the World Tour drum kit, while ostensibly clearing up the mystery surrounding the rumoured new peripherals for Neversoft's title.

"I don't know how far ahead they planned that - we obviously revealed [our drum kit] much earlier than they did," said Bright, referencing Harmonix' plan to release separate clip-on cymbals for Rock Band set-ups.

"I've a feeling there was a: 'Oh s***! There's cymbals! How can we put cymbals on our kit?' That would be the easiest way without having to rewire everything and re-engineer the entire circuit board."

Guitar Hero World Tour to Feature Partnerships with Prominent Music Instrument Manufacturers (News)

Aug 28, 2008

After raising the bar of authenticity with every release in the Guitar Hero franchise, Activision Publishing, Inc.'s (Nasdaq: ATVI) Guitar Hero World Tour is cranking it to 11 by featuring several of the most influential instrument and equipment brands in the music industry.

Guitar Hero World Tour's Mystery Peripheral is Not a Keyboard (News)

Aug 27, 2008

Alright, all you people that bet on keyboard for the mystery peripheral coming to Guitar Hero World Tour's Studio mode -- it's time to pay up, as Neversoft's Brian Bright has said that that accessory won't be added to the World Tour instrument lineup.

"No, there are reasons why we haven't included a keyboard controller. Not all of our songs have keyboard parts, so we didn't want someone to come into a game, pick up the keyboard controller, and then have nothing to do in any of the songs that are selected. We wanted a big mix of music in World Tour and adding a keyboard controller would either have limited our choices, or the players'.

A keyboard controller deserves to be introduced with its own game. This is something we're thinking about." -- Guitar Hero World Tour project director Brian Bright to Joystiq

Mystery peripheral of of World Tour's Studio mode aside, are you guys getting giddy over the thought of playing Keyboard Hero in the future as Bright deviously hinted at?

No New Peripheral For Guitar Hero: World Tour (News)

Aug 27, 2008

Contrary to the rumors, Guitar Hero: World Tour won't be shipping with a new instrument. Just a guitar, microphone, and drum set, like Rock Band. Bad news for all of you who were hoping for an electric violin. However, there is some truth to the rumor.

Guitar Hero World Tour to feature country specific tracks (News)

Aug 20, 2008

Red Octane has just announced during the Activision Blizzard Games Convention press conference that Guitar Hero World Tour will songs available for download relating to what country you live in.

The countries listed so far are:

* Holland
* Germany
* France
* Sweden
* Italy
* UK
* Spain

Guitar Hero World Tour newest songs list reveals 43 out of 85 tracks (News)

Aug 17, 2008

It's been reported that the game will feature "over 85 songs" on the final soundtrack for the game! So far 43 songs and their artists have been revealed for the Guitar Hero World Tour soundtrack by Activision. VGB has compiled a list that includes videoclips for each song.

OXM Confirms 30 Guitar Hero World Tour Tracks (News)

Aug 14, 2008

Ripten writes: Hot off the heels of the leaked set list that escaped onto the internet a week ago, a Guitar Hero community member leaked a picture of the latest issue of OXM, which confirms thirty of the songs that are indeed in the final version of Guitar Hero World Tour.

Ozzy Osbourne to Headline Virtual OZZFest Lineup in Guitar Hero World Tour (News)

Aug 10, 2008

After performing in countless sold-out arenas and amphitheatres throughout the world, rock's defining frontman Ozzy Osbourne – who has sold over 100 million records worldwide in his four decade career – will be playing to a new audience this fall as he makes his videogame debut in Activision Publishing, Inc.'s (Nasdaq: ATVI) Guitar Hero World Tour.

Budding rockstars around the world will have the opportunity to live out their ultimate fantasy on the virtual OZZFest stage, playing as Ozzy, or alongside him, as he wails to iconic rock track "Crazy Train" and "Mr. Crowley," both from his quintuple platinum debut solo album Blizzard of Ozz. OZZFest, now it its 13th year, has also been created digitally as an in-game venue exclusively for Guitar Hero World Tour to host the heavy metal rock legend.

Joining Ozzy in Guitar Hero World Tour as a playable character is his lead axe-shredder and founder of Black Label Society, Zakk Wylde, performing their hit track "Stillborn."

In addition to Metallica releasing their highly anticipated Death Magnetic album in its entirety as downloadable content in both Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock and Guitar Hero World Tour, the 2008 OZZFest performers and GRAMMY winning recording artists will be appearing for their on-disc encore with "Trapped Under Ice." Finally, taking the Guitar Hero stage for the first time is fellow OZZFest artist, System of a Down with their 2006 GRAMMY for Best Hard Rock Performance winning single "B.Y.O.B."

When the house lights go down this fall, a new generation of guitarists, drummers and fearless frontmen will come together and rock with Guitar Hero World Tour. The latest installment in the #1 best-selling video game franchise of 2007, Guitar Hero World Tour transforms music gaming by expanding Guitar Hero's signature guitar gameplay into a cooperative band experience that combines the most advanced wireles...

Interpol to Appear in Guitar Hero: World Tour (News)

Aug 8, 2008

Interpol have apparently been confirmed for Guitar Hero: World Tour according to an article in magazine, Stuff Magazine. The song they'll have in the game is Obstacle 1.

Is gaming already the new music industry? (News)

Aug 8, 2008

From gameplayer: "the negotiating power of the games companies stem from their control over the track lists in their titles… The game publishers have the power. So, in a sense, they ARE the music industry."

'Guitar Hero' continues to play sweet music for Activision (News)

Aug 1, 2008

Activision Blizzard Inc. on Thursday reported that Activision Inc.'s first-quarter profits more than doubled on strong sales of the "Guitar Hero" franchise and the game based on the animated movie "Kung Fu Panda."

The first quarter ended before the closing of Activision's merger with Vivendi Games, creating Activision Blizzard.

In the quarter, Activision earned $59 million, or 18 cents a share, up from $27.8 million, or 9 cents a share, in the first quarter a year ago.

In the quarter, Activision logged $654.2 million in sales, up from $495.5 million a year ago.

Real Wood, Full-Size Guitar Controller for PlayStation Rock Band and Guitar Heroes (News)

Jul 31, 2008

Not content with the plastic miniature guitar you're forced to use when you pretend rock out? Well, if you're a PlayStation 2 or 3 owner with an extra $180 lying around, you can pick up this new wooden guitar that works with Rock Band and all of the Guitar Hero games.

Guitar Hero: World Tour Setlist A [Beautiful] Fake (News)

Jul 24, 2008

Game Informer reports:

"A list of songs has been floating around online today, purportedly comprising the Guitar Hero: World Tour setlist. With songs from bands like Tool, Pink Floyd and Thin Lizzy, it looks like a music-game lover's dream. Well, the folks at Activision and Red Octane are pinching us all awake with the announcement that it's a fake. We spoke with a representative who confirmed that, while some of those songs are indeed in the game (Van Halen's "Hot for Teacher," for one), the bulk of it is wishful thinking and pure speculation.

And we were so looking forward to the boss battle with bassist Sting, too. Drat."

E3 2008: Activision wants to make Rock Band Instruments compatible with Guitar Hero: World Tour (News)

Jul 16, 2008

During Activision's unofficial E3 Press conference on Tuesday evening, two developers commented about future Guitar Hero games being compatible with other instruments that haven't been designed with Guitar Hero in mind, like Rock Band's instruments.

Destructoid Exclusive: Rock Axe, the guitar controller to end 'em all (News)

Jul 14, 2008

Dick McVengeance of Destructoid says,

"Let's face it: the Guitar Hero controller is not the ideal item for the game. It'd be nice to hold a full-sized guitar in your hands. We've seen people build custom controllers and put them on eBay, but those were one-off deals, and usually rather expensive."

Music Studio in The Next Guitar Hero - POD by Line 6 announced (News)

Jul 12, 2008

Alan Tsang of PS3Fanboy says,

"Not to be outdone by the onslaught of Rock Band 2 information leaking out, Activision has officially announced a collaboration with Line 6 to integrate the Line 6 POD into the new Music Studio in Guitar Hero World Tour. The Music Studio is a feature that will allow you "record, edit and share their own rock 'n' roll anthems." No vocals though, sorry! The POD, on the other hand, basically allows the player to change guitar tones using amps, cabs and effects. You can go anywhere from acoustic to heavy metal with this baby."

Guitar Hero World Tour (Preview)

Jun 30, 2008

We’re going to party like it’s 1984. With Guitar Hero World Tour, the latest all-singing, all finger-tapping edition of the Guitar Hero franchise aims to deliver the party vibe. This year’s game is about the social experience of joining together to rock… so let’s jump! Why the Van Halen references? Because they’re just one of the new bands confirmed as exclusive to Guitar Hero World Tour, others include ...

Unlock Credits Song (Unlockable)

Nov 6, 2008

Go to GamesRadar to see the Unlockable ...

Unlockable Characters (Unlockable)

Nov 5, 2008

Go to GamesRadar to see the Unlockable ...

Cheats (Cheat)

Oct 29, 2008

Go to GamesRadar to see the Cheat ...

Rock Band Instruments Are Useable (Hint)

Oct 29, 2008

Go to GamesRadar to see the Hint ...

Unlock All Songs (Cheat)

Oct 27, 2008

Go to GamesRadar to see the Cheat ...

GamesRadar - Guitar Hero World Tour

30 percent of Guitar Hero players are girls (News)

Rock Band to Get Rob Zombie, Wolfmother, Morningwood, And More (News)

Guitar Hero 5, Band Hero and DJ Hero priced for SA (News)

Guitar Hero World Tour Band Kit $79.99 @ Future Shop (News)

Guitar Hero Victory Track Pack Released (News)

GameStop May Have Some Deals for You (News)

GameStop starts huge Guitar Hero, Rock Band sale (News)

Face melting deal: GHWT guitar and mic for $50, today only (News)

Amazon cuts Guitar Hero World Tour's price by $100 (News)

Jack White and Jimmy Page diss 'Guitar Hero' video game (News)

Gamestop.com Music Blowout Sale (News)

Music games off 36% this year, EA expects Rock Band sales down $400 million (News)

Prince Talks About Guitar Hero, Turned Down an Offer to be in the Game (News)

Guitar Hero World Tour Partners with Hit Musical We Will Rock You (News)

Nyko's Metal Pedal for Rock Band and Guitar Hero now available (News)

The Top 7… games you either love or hate (Feature)

$40 Off Guitar Hero World Tour Band Kit (PS3/360/PS2) After Coupon at Red Octane (News)

Gibson Loses Guitar Hero Lawsuit (News)

MCV Industry Excellence Awards 2009 Finalists Announced (News)

Former Sega of America President Bernard Stolar lands new job at Vivo Products (News)

Activision Sticking With A-Rod, Michael Phelps (News)

School of Rock: Guitar Hero & Rock Band Summer Camps Announced (News)

World Tour Doubles US Sales of Rock Band? ?2 (News)

UK Guitar Hero World Tour Rock Band ratio closer to 4:1, says Red Octane (News)

Guitar Hero: Metallica...The Songs (Full Setlist) (News)

Forbes writer responds to Rockband comment, still thinks it is a 'knockoff' (News)

Forbes Magazine slams Rockband (News)

Fender: Survey Shows Music Games Drive Students To Play Real Instruments (News)

Eurogamer's Top 50 Games of 2008: 10-1 (News)

Guitar Hero "Reaching its Peak" - Analyst (News)

Defending the Plastic Guitar! (News)

Gene Simmons AXE Controller Launches (News)

Resellers take advantage of World Tour shortages (News)

Nickelback slam Guitar Hero (News)

Guitar Hero World Tour's Dollar Sales More Than Double Rock Band 2 (News)

Sony Hands Microsoft Guitar Hero Advantage (News)

'Mario,' 'Zelda' Tunes Deleted From 'Guitar Hero' Music-Sharing Service (News)

Kotick: Guitar Hero Song Creator Might Be Our 'Newest Subscription Opportunity' (News)

Heidi Klum Dances In Underwear For Guitar Hero Commercial (News)

Guitar Hero: World Tour / Rock Band 2 - Drum track comparison pt. 1 (Video)

Guitar Hero: World Tour / Rock Band 2 - Drum track comparison pt. 2 (Video)

Brett Ratner Directed the Guitar Hero Commercial (News)

Tongues out for the Kiss Guitar Hero controller (News)

Guitar Hero World Tour DLC - Jimi Hendrix and The Raconteurs Available in November (News)

Activision Issues Statement Addressing Broken Drum Complaints (News)

Buyers Complain of Faulty Guitar Hero World Tour Instruments (News)

How To Unlock Every 'Guitar Hero: World Tour' Song Right Away (News)

Guitar Hero World Tour - Launch trailer (Video)

Neocrisis: Guitar Hero World Tour DLC Revealed *Wii* (News)

New Game Releases for the Week of October 26, 2008 (News)

Logitech Answers Guitar Questions of Cross-Game Compatibility and Other Platforms (News)

$250 Guitar Hero Controller Made by Logitech (News)

X-Play's 'Guitar Hero World Tour' Special Tonight (News)

Oasis Joins Forces With Guitar Hero World Tour to Bring New Album, Dig Out Your Soul, as Downloadable Content (News)

Crazy Rock Band vs. Guitar Hero Price War (News)

Activision pooh-poohs Rock Band's Success (News)

Slash Leaks Guitar Hero: Hendrix? (News)

Guitar Hero DLC Subscription Being Evaluated by Activision, Plans to Make Lots of Money (News)

'Guitar Hero' movie isn't happening...yet (News)

Ted Nugent joins Guitar Hero: World Tour (News)

The Top 7... New franchises that already feel old (Feature)

Tool Confirmed For Guitar Hero: World Tour (News)

Play Tool on Fake Instruments (Guitar Hero) (News)

Sting playable in Guitar Hero World Tour (News)

Aussie Guitar Hero World Tour full pricing revealed! (News)

Wayne Kramer, Sex Pistols, And Motorhead Re-Record For GH: World Tour (News)

The Smashing Pumpkins to Debut New Single 'G.L.O.W.' as Part of Downloadable Songpack Exclusively for Guitar Hero World Tour & New Trailer (News)

Guitar Hero World Tour – hands-on (Preview)

The Smashing Pumpkins will release their new song "G.L.O.W" exclusively through Guitar Hero World Tour. (News)

Guitar Hero World Tour dated down under (News)

GH dev mocks Rock Band cymbals (News)

Guitar Hero World Tour to Feature Partnerships with Prominent Music Instrument Manufacturers (News)

Guitar Hero World Tour's Mystery Peripheral is Not a Keyboard (News)

No New Peripheral For Guitar Hero: World Tour (News)

Guitar Hero World Tour to feature country specific tracks (News)

Guitar Hero World Tour newest songs list reveals 43 out of 85 tracks (News)

OXM Confirms 30 Guitar Hero World Tour Tracks (News)

Ozzy Osbourne to Headline Virtual OZZFest Lineup in Guitar Hero World Tour (News)

Interpol to Appear in Guitar Hero: World Tour (News)

Neocrisis: Guitar Hero World Tour DLC Revealed Wii (News)