"2025: New Guitar Hero Controller Launches for Wii"

Summary

• A new Guitar Hero controller for the Wii, the Hyper Strummer, is launching on January 8 for $76.99 on Amazon.
• The release is likely targeted at retro gamers seeking a nostalgic experience and those interested in replaying Guitar Hero and Rock Band.
• The controller offers a chance for players to enjoy a revived interest in Guitar Hero.

In a surprising move, the Wii is set to receive a new Guitar Hero controller in 2025. This may come as a surprise to many, given that both the Wii and the Guitar Hero series are considered defunct and have been quiet for some time.

The Wii marked a triumphant return for Nintendo following the less successful GameCube, especially when compared to the PS2. However, its heyday is long past, with production ceasing in 2013, over a decade ago. Similarly, the last mainline Guitar Hero game was released in 2015 with Guitar Hero Live, while the last entry on the Wii was Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock in 2010. Most gamers have since moved on from both the console and the game series.

Despite this, Hyperkin is launching a new Guitar Hero controller specifically designed for the Wii versions of the game. According to Hyperkin, the Hyper Strummer guitar controller is compatible with Guitar Hero games and certain Rock Band titles released on the Wii, including Rock Band 2, 3, The Beatles, Green Day, and Lego Rock Band. It is not compatible with the original Rock Band. The Hyper Strummer is an updated model of a previous Guitar Hero controller released by the company, and it can be used by inserting the WiiMote into the back of the controller. The Hyperkin Hyper Strummer will be available starting January 8, priced at $76.99 on Amazon.

Why Release a Guitar Hero Wii Controller Now?

A question many gamers might have is who this controller is intended for. Given that both the Guitar Hero series and the Wii console are no longer in production, the controller is unlikely to be a bestseller. However, it may appeal to retro gamers who are eager to relive their nostalgic experiences. Guitar Hero and Rock Band peripherals often wear out over time, and many players may have stopped playing after their controllers failed, particularly since the official ones that were released with the games are no longer produced. The Hyperkin Hyper Strummer offers nostalgic Guitar Hero fans a chance to dive back into the games.

Guitar Hero has also experienced a resurgence in interest recently, driven by a few factors. One is the introduction of Fortnite Festival in Fortnite, which brings a Rock Band and Guitar Hero-like experience to the online game. Additionally, gamers are taking on challenges such as beating every song in Guitar Hero without missing a note. A reliable controller that won't miss inputs is crucial for those attempting such challenges, making the new Hyperkin controller an attractive option for these players.