A new Guitar Hero controller is hitting the market – for the Wii! Hyperkin's Hyper Strummer launches January 8th, priced at $76.99 on Amazon. This unexpected release targets a niche audience: retro gamers seeking a nostalgic experience and those looking to revisit Guitar Hero and Rock Band on the Wii.
The Wii's gaming era may be long past, production ceasing in 2013, and the last mainline Guitar Hero title released in 2015. However, this new controller offers a compelling proposition for fans. The Hyper Strummer, compatible with various Wii titles including Guitar Hero and several Rock Band installments (Rock Band 2, 3, The Beatles, Green Day, and Lego Rock Band, but excluding the original Rock Band), provides a functional replacement for worn-out or defunct legacy controllers. It utilizes the Wii Remote, inserted into the back of the guitar.
Why Now? A Resurgence of Interest
The timing of this release might seem peculiar. However, several factors contribute to its potential appeal:
Retro Gaming Nostalgia: The enduring popularity of retro gaming fuels demand for replacement peripherals. Many players may have abandoned Guitar Hero due to damaged controllers, making the Hyper Strummer a viable option.
Renewed Interest in Guitar Hero: Recent trends, such as the Fortnite Festival's music-based gameplay, have rekindled interest in rhythm games. The challenge of perfect playthroughs also drives demand for reliable controllers. The Hyper Strummer offers a fresh, reliable alternative.
In short, while not a mainstream release, the Hyper Strummer caters to a specific segment of gamers eager for a nostalgic gaming experience or a reliable controller for challenging Guitar Hero achievements. Its availability offers a chance to reignite the passion for these classic rhythm games.