
Summary
- A new Guitar Hero controller for the Wii, the Hyper Strummer, is set to launch on January 8 for $76.99 on Amazon.
- The release targets retro gamers and those eager to relive their Guitar Hero and Rock Band experiences.
- The controller offers players a chance to rekindle their interest in Guitar Hero.
In an unexpected development, the Wii is set to receive a new Guitar Hero controller in 2025. This move might come as a surprise to many, given that both the Wii and the Guitar Hero series have been inactive for a significant period.
The Wii marked a successful comeback for Nintendo following the less impactful GameCube, especially when compared to the PlayStation 2. However, the glory days of the Wii ended long ago, with production ceasing in 2013. The last mainline Guitar Hero game, Guitar Hero Live, was released in 2015, and the final Wii entry, Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock, came out in 2010. Many gamers have since shifted their focus away from these platforms and series.
Nevertheless, Hyperkin is introducing the Hyper Strummer, a new Guitar Hero controller designed specifically for Wii versions of the game. According to Hyperkin, the Hyper Strummer is compatible with Guitar Hero titles and certain Rock Band games 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 version of a previous Guitar Hero controller by Hyperkin, and it requires a WiiMote to be plugged into the back of the controller. The Hyperkin Hyper Strummer will be available on Amazon starting January 8, priced at $76.99.
Why Release a Guitar Hero Wii Controller Now?
A pertinent question is the target audience for this controller. Given that both the Guitar Hero series and the Wii console are discontinued, the controller may not see high demand. However, it is likely to appeal to retro gamers. Guitar Hero and Rock Band peripherals often wear out over time, leading many players to abandon the games when their controllers fail, particularly since official ones are no longer produced. The Hyperkin Hyper Strummer offers nostalgic fans a chance to revisit these beloved games.
Moreover, Guitar Hero has experienced a recent resurgence in interest. This revival can be attributed to factors like the introduction of Fortnite Festival in Fortnite, which brings a Rock Band and Guitar Hero-like experience to the popular online game. Additionally, gamers are engaging in challenges such as completing every song in Guitar Hero without missing a note. For those aiming to tackle such challenges, having a reliable controller like the Hyper Strummer is crucial, making it an attractive option for these dedicated players.