"2025: New Guitar Hero Controller for Wii Released"

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, which may come as a shock to many, given the Wii and Guitar Hero series have been inactive for quite some time.

The Wii marked a significant comeback for Nintendo following the GameCube's less successful performance against the PS2. However, its peak has long passed, with production ceasing in 2013, over a decade ago. The Guitar Hero franchise saw its last mainline release with Guitar Hero Live in 2015, while the last Wii entry was Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock in 2010. Most gamers have moved on from both the console and the game series.

Hyperkin is stepping in to release the Hyper Strummer, a new Guitar Hero controller designed specifically for the Wii versions of the game. This controller is compatible with Guitar Hero titles and select Rock Band games on the Wii, such as Rock Band 2, 3, The Beatles, Green Day, and Lego Rock Band, but not the original Rock Band. The Hyper Strummer is an enhanced version of a previous Guitar Hero controller by Hyperkin and connects to the Wii through the WiiMote inserted 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 common question among gamers is the target audience for this new controller. With both the Guitar Hero series and the Wii discontinued, it's unlikely to see high sales volumes. However, it holds appeal for retro gaming enthusiasts. Guitar Hero and Rock Band peripherals often wear out over time, and many players may have stopped playing once their controllers failed, especially since official replacements are no longer produced. The Hyperkin Hyper Strummer offers nostalgic fans a way to dive back into these beloved games.

Moreover, there's been a noticeable resurgence in interest in Guitar Hero recently, driven by factors like the introduction of Fortnite Festival in Fortnite, which brings a similar experience to Rock Band and Guitar Hero. Additionally, some gamers are taking on challenges like completing every song in Guitar Hero without missing a note. For these players, having a reliable controller that ensures accurate inputs is crucial, making the Hyper Strummer an attractive option.