‘Kung-Fu LIVE’ Video Game Challenges the World to Kick Ass at Gamescom 2010

Virtual Air Guitar Company Ltd, a Helsinki–based independent game developer and computer vision specialist, announced today to combatants across the globe an invitation to literally step into an epic fighting game like no other with Kung-Fu LIVE at the Gamescom trade fair in Cologne, Germany before it launches this Fall on PlayStation Network. Gamescom attendees of all ages interested in testing their skills can stop by Hall 6 - Open Booth C-033 from August 19th to the 22nd for their exclusive body-on trial of the game.

First Guitar Hero 5 details, songs and images revealed!

Guitar Hero continues to re-define the music and gaming experience this Fall with the release of Guitar Hero 5. Featuring the best variety and biggest rock stars of today combined with classic rock anthems, Guitar Hero 5 is the latest installment of the world’s most popular music game. For the first time ever, players can customize the make-up of their band by rocking with any combination of instruments in-game: whether it be two guitars and two drums, or three guitars and a microphone, any combination is possible, allowing players to experience music their own way. Brand new, innovative, easy-to-use gameplay modes like Party Play and RockFest put fun, competition and control at center stage as fans tailor the Guitar Hero experience to match their personal style and interests. For extended hours of entertainment, downloadable content from Guitar Hero World Tour will be compatible with the game and will automatically be updated to include all of the upgrades and enhancements of Guitar Hero 5.

Guitar Hero 5 features the strongest, most varied set list to-date comprised of master tracks from 85 of the hottest bands of today and the biggest classic acts including; Kings of Leon, The Rolling Stones, The White Stripes, Santana, Vampire Weekend, Tom Petty, Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, plus more than 30 artists from a variety of music genres that will be making their music-rhythm video game debut.

Among the first-time-ever features of Guitar Hero 5 are: Party Play, where players can jump in or drop out of gameplay seamlessly; RockFest, a comprehensive competitive experience available featuring five new head-to-head modes playable online or in your living room; and the ability to play the entire set-list from the first time the game is turned on.

Guitar Hero 5 refines the player experience, enhances the art style and redesigns core features such as GHMusic Studio, making it the most accessible, fun-to-play and authentic experience for seasoned music gamers as well as first-time players. New innovations such as Band Moments, where bands are rewarded for hitting special note streams together and song challenges where gamers are tasked to play through a song a specific way, add a new competitive layer of excitement and accomplishment to the music rhythm genre.


New songs include:
The Rolling Stones – Sympathy for the Devil
Bob Dylan – All Along The Watchtower
The White Stripes – Blue Orchid
Santana – No One To Depend On (LIVE)
Vampire Weekend – A-Punk
Tom Petty - Runnin Down a Dream
Johnny Cash – Ring of Fire
Kings of Leon – Sex on Fire

Guitar Hero's to keep on rockin' new music from Pixies, Motorhead, Silversun Pickups, Steely Dan and Nirvana.

Two Brand-New Silversun Pickups Tracks to Debut Exclusively in Guitar Hero World Tour *Fifteen New Songs in April Add to the Massive Guitar Hero World Tour Set List

In April, gamers will have no shortage of new songs to rock out to on Activision Publishing, Guitar Hero World Tour with downloadable music from five distinctive rock bands.

The Pixies make their Guitar Hero debut; returning veterans Silversun Pickups will release two brand-new songs off their sophomore album, prior to its release; Nirvana returns for a downloadable encore with three additional hits; while Motörhead and Steely Dan, each with singles featured on Guitar Hero World Tour’s on-disc set list, make a resounding return.

On April 2nd, fans will be introduced to The Pixies’ alternative rock music for the first time ever in a Guitar Hero game. Virtual musicians will experience two singles from The Pixies’ second album, Doolittle, with “Debaser” and the highly successful “Monkey Gone to Heaven,” along with “The Sad Punk” from Trompe le Monde, their fourth and final full-length studio album.

Gamers will be able to get an exclusive taste of Silversun Pickups’ new music before their release of their second album, Swoon, on April 14 with “Panic Switch” and “It’s Nice to Know You Work Alone.” “Well Thought Out Twinkles” from their breakthrough album, Carnavas, will round out the Track Pack, available on April 9th.

Returning to Guitar Hero World Tour on April 16th is the popular rock band from the 70’s, Steely Dan. This time around, the band will contribute one single each from three of their albums – “Black Friday” from Katy Lied, “Kid Charlemagne” from The Royal Scam and “Bodhisattva” from Countdown to Ecstasy.

For download on April 23rd, British hard rock band, Motörhead, re-recorded new versions of “Jailbait,” “Love Me Like a Reptile,” and “Iron Fist” for Guitar Hero World Tour.

With their second downloadable Track Pack, Kurt Cobain, Krist Novoselic and Dave Grohl of Nirvana will be returning to Guitar Hero World Tour on April 30th with "Very Ape" from In Utero, "Sappy" from the No Alternative compilation and "Stay Away" from their breakthrough, first major label album, Nevermind.

The Track Packs will be available on Xbox LIVE Marketplace for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft for 440 Microsoft Points and on the PlayStation Store for the PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system for 5.49 euros / £3.99. All songs in the Track Packs will be released as downloadable singles for Xbox 360 for 160 Microsoft Points, PLAYSTATION 3 system for 1.99 euros / £1.59 and Nintendo Wii for 200 Wii Points each.

Billboard top 25 video game songs ever - with video links...

01. Rage Against the Machine
Bulls on Paradise (Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock) YouTube link
02. Guns n' Roses
Welcome to the Jungle (Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock) YouTube link
03. Motorhead
Ace of Spades (Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2 and 3) YouTube link
04. Back Sabbath
Iron Man (Guitar Hero) YouTube link
05. Beastie Boys
Sabotage (Guitar Hero III: Rock Band) YouTube link
06. James Brown
The Big Payback (Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas) YouTube link
07. Chemical Brothers
Chemical Beats (Wipeout) YouTube link
08. Frank Sinatra
That's Life (Tony Hawk's Underground 2) YouTube link
09. Metallica
One (Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock) YouTube link
10. Buckethead
Jordan (Guitar Hero II) YouTube link
11. Nine Inch Nails
Quake Soundtrack (Quake) YouTube link
12. Night Ranger
Sister Christian (Grand Theft Auto: Vice City) YouTube link
13. Run-D.M.C.
My Adidas (Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 4) YouTube link
14. Miles Davis
Move (Grand Theft Auto IV) YouTube link
15. Michael Jackson
Billie Jean (Grand Theft Auto: Vice City) YouTube link
16. Public Enemy with Anthrax
Bring the Noise (Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2) YouTube link
17. Dead Boys
Sonic Reducer (Tony Hawk's Underground 2) YouTube link
18. David Lee Roth
Yankee Rose (Grand Theft Auto: Vice City) YouTube link
19. Sex Pistols
Anarchy in the UK (Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock) YouTube link
20. Johnny Cash
Rig of Fire (Tony Hawk's Underground 2) YouTube link
21. The Ramones
Blitzkrieg Bop (Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3) YouTube link
22. Living Colour
Cult of Personality (Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock) YouTube link
23. Ozomatli
Cut Chemist Suite (Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3) YouTube link
24. Slick Rick
Children's Story (Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas) YouTube link
25. Guns n' Roses
Shackler's Revenge (Rock Band 2) YouTube link

Source: Billboard

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Guitar Hero clone Guitar Praise - PC video game for Christians

A Christian video game maker, who makes Christian-themed clones of Dance Dance Revolution, plans to introduce Guitar Praise, a Guitar Hero clone, for the PC platform.

Grab the guitar and play along with top Christian bands! Shred those riffs or blast the bass…you add a unique sound to the solid Christian rock. But watch out: if you can’t keep up, the artists will take a break and stop the music. Crank it up and try again - you’ll soon be rockin’ with the best while praising the Lord!

Brett Ratner Wants To Make A ‘Guitar Hero’ Movie

Potential “God of War” movie maker Brett Ratner would really like to make a “Guitar Hero” movie.

Ratner spoke to my MTV News colleague Jocelyn Vena yesterday for an interview primarily about his “Best Director” Video Music Awards nomination for his work on Miley Cyrus‘ “7 Things” music video.

Since Ratner has done a lot with “Guitar Hero” lately — he had Miley pretending to smash “Guitar Hero” instruments on the set of “7 Things,” had “GH” in his Mariah Carey video and got it on American Idol — we needed to ask him what else he has in store for the game.

More from MTV Multiplayer here...

Guitar hero World Tour to featuring several of the most influential instrument and equipment brands in the music industry

Game Set to Deliver Most Authentic Rock and Roll Experience Yet

After raising the bar of authenticity with every release in the Guitar Hero franchise, Activision Guitar Hero World Tour is cranking it to 11 by featuring several of the most influential instrument and equipment brands in the music industry. 

Gamers can score in-game sponsorships and gear from Ampeg, Audio-Technica, EMG Pickups, Ernie Ball, Evans Drumheads, Guitar Center, Krank Amplification, Mackie, Marshall, Orange County Drum & Percussion, Pork Pie Percussion, Regal Tip, Sabian cymbals, Vox and Zildjian drumsticks.

In addition to featuring products, the game lets virtual bands play on the same stage as many of their favorite musicians with digital re-creations of Amoeba Music, Live Nation’s House of Blues Sunset Strip and San Francisco’s AT&T Park.

“Gamers have come to expect a certain level of realism in video games and by collaborating with key brands in the industry we’re able to deliver with Guitar Hero World Tour,” said Dave Anderson, Sr. Director of Business Development for Activision Publishing, Inc. “With the most advanced wireless instrument controllers, the in-game likeness of multiple multi-platinum recording artists and authentic on-stage gear, the game offers the ultimate rock and roll experience.”

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 No1 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 wireless controllers with new revolutionary online* and offline gameplay modes including Band Career and 8-player “Battle of the Bands,” which allows two full bands to compete head-to-head online for the first time ever. 

The game features a slick newly redesigned guitar controller, drum kit controller and a microphone, as well as an innovative Music Studio music creator that lets players compose, record, edit and share their own rock ‘n’ roll anthems. Music creators will also be able to share their recordings with their friends online through GHTunes where other gamers can download and play an endless supply of unique creations.

Guitar Hero - World Tour video game - Fact Sheet

Guitar Hero - World Tour - Fact Sheet

When the house lights go down this fall, a new generation of axe shredders, drummers and fearless frontmen will be born with Activision’s Guitar Hero World Tour. 

The latest installment in the best-selling music/rhythm video game franchise, 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 wireless instruments with new revolutionary online and offline gameplay modes including online Band Career and 8-player “Battle of the Bands,” which allows two full bands to compete head-to-head online for the first time ever. 

The game features a slick newly redesigned guitar, an authentic electronic drum kit and a microphone, as well as an innovative Music Studio music creator that lets players compose, record, edit and share their own rock ‘n’ roll anthems.

KEY FEATURES:

State of the Art Wireless Instruments – In addition to a newly redesigned, more responsive guitar controller which features a touch-sensitive slide bar on the neck, Guitar Hero World Tour will deliver the most realistic drum experience ever in a video game with an authentic drum kit. Featuring three drum pads, two raised cymbals and a bass kick pedal, the drum controller combines larger and quieter, velocity-sensitive drum heads with soft rubber construction to deliver authentic bounce back and is easy to set up, move, break down and store.

* The Next Great Songwriter, is You – Guitar Hero World Tour’s innovative new Music Studio lets players express their musical creativity by giving them access to a full complement of tools to create digital music from scratch utilizing the redesigned touch-sensitive guitar controller and an authentic drum kit. Virtuosos can then play their compositions in-game and share the recordings with the entire Guitar Hero community through GHTunes™ where other gamers from around the world will be able to download and play their original tracks. Available to Xbox 360 and PlayStation3 gamers is Line 6’s guitar tone technology, enabling them to use amps, cabs and effects from the world-renown Line 6 POD.

An Original Set List that’s Truly “Everlong” – Guitar Hero World Tour features the largest, most diverse on-disc set list to appear in a music-based video game. Comprised entirely of memorable master recordings from some of the greatest artists of all-time including Van Halen, Linkin Park, The Eagles, Sublime and many more, Guitar Hero World Tour delivers over 85 tracks for countless hours of rocking. In addition to the killer track list, the game will feature rock icons such as Hayley Williams of Paramore and Travis Barker of +44 and blink-182 and a collection of many other superstar musicians making their video game debuts on the Guitar Hero stage.

Don’t Stop Till You Get Enough – Starting with initial releases at launch, gamers will be able to expand the “Everlong” set list with frequent downloadable singles and track packs – including for the first time ever, in-game downloadable content on Wii. Making the options endless, rock stars will have a limitless supply of downloadable content through GHTunes™ creating a set list where the music never ends. In both the quickplay and career game modes, gamers can build their own playlists which allow them to select and perform up to six tracks in a single gig.
Making the Band – Guitar Hero World Tour features an all-new cooperative band experience allowing gamers to share in the most social and expressive music revolution ever. Budding rock stars can live out their rock ‘n’ roll fantasies by playing either a single instrument or any combination of instruments, in addition to the full band experience. When rocking as part of a band, up to four players can jam together in quickplay or as they progress through a career. Both band and single-player careers feature non-linear progression giving artists the option to change difficulty and instruments with a variety of different gigs available at any time.

Global Invasion – Guitar Hero World Tour introduces revolutionary new online game modes including “Battle of the Bands” which allows eight players to join online and challenge each other band-to-band to establish global supremacy. Virtual musicians in need of band mates can take their careers online forming worldwide ensembles so no rock star ever has to play a gig solo.

Fully Customizable – Featuring one of the most extensive character creators ever, Guitar Hero World Tour allows gamers to create a rock star with style as unique as their own. Absolute customization from the clothes to the facial and body structure to the tattoos and accessories, players are encouraged to unleash their inner rock legend. The Rock Star Creator doesn’t just allow players to build the ultimate rock god; the in-depth creators include the ability to customize guitars, drums and microphones. Adding yet another layer of personalization, gamers can create custom logos for their instruments, band or album covers.

Publisher: Activision, Inc.

Developer: Neversoft (Xbox 360 and PS3), Budcat (PS2), Vicarious Visions (Wii)

Release Date: Fall 2008

Guitar Hero on Tour - Decades video game - Fact Sheet

Guitar Hero on Tour - Decades video game - Fact Sheet

Guitar Hero On Tour - Decades allows gamers to unleash their inner rockstar anytime, anywhere and for the first time ever share their music with friends as they embark on a tour through the decades of rock.

Guitar Hero On Tour - Decades leverages the technology developed for Guitar Hero: On Tour and expands the experience with a new progression that takes the player through a rock ‘n’ roll journey from today’s rock all the way to the classics of the 70s. With a new library of music, new and improved characters and venues, fully updated UI, and backwards compatibility, the game delivers a portable way for gamers to play through the history of rock.

KEY FEATURES:

• Song-sharing with the original Guitar Hero: On Tour

• Unprecedented Song Streaming allows players of Guitar Hero On Tour: Decades and the previously released Guitar Hero: On Tour to share songs and rock out together in multiplayer modes.
• Wirelessly connect with Guitar Hero: On Tour players and go head-to-head on songs from either version of the game.
• Rock on with other players via Local wireless multiplayer modes.

• Travel back through time – Shred to classic songs from the ‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s and today. Play in exclusive, brand new venues set through the course of history, inspired by the most important rock trends of the last 40 years.
• Mastering the tracks – Rock out to the biggest selection of music ever on DS with all master tracks from the defining artists of their era including Fall Out Boy, Linkin Park, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Bon Jovi, REM, Queen and many more.
• Customize characters – Rock out with outfits from throughout the ages, defining the best and most outrageous clothing trends in rock history.
• Choose your path – Play through any one of three different career paths each with their own story: Lead Guitar, Bass Guitar, and Guitar Duel.
• All the best game modes players expect from a Guitar Hero: On Tour game.

• Play single-player career, quickplay or Guitar Duel modes.
• Play co-operatively or compete head-to-head in local wireless play in Face-Off, Pro-Face Off, or Guitar Duels; players can blow into the microphone to extinguish a pyrotechnics effects gone wrong, or use the touch screen to autograph a fan’s shirt in the middle of their set.

• Rock out anytime, anywhere – Fans can take the Guitar Hero experience wherever they go with Guitar Hero On Tour: Decades. The Guitar Hero Guitar Grip is an ergonomic extension that mimics a guitar fret board and fits seamlessly in people’s hands to deliver the same core gameplay that defines Guitar Hero.
• Strum with the stylus – Included with the game is a Guitar Hero pick-stylus that allows gamers to strum away in style on the touch activated screen of the DS.

Publisher: Activision Publishing, Inc.
Developer: Vicarious Visions
Release Date: Fall 2008
ESRB Rating: Rating Pending

Dragonforce new single download for Guitar Hero III - Legends of Rock

Known for their out-of-control riffs, fast paced songs and twin guitar solos, DragonForce will ascend the virtual stage once again to unleash “Heroes of Our Time” – the debut single off their new album Ultra Beatdown – in a three-song track pack for Activision Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock. The DragonForce track pack will be available on August 21, 2008 giving gamers the unique opportunity to download and play “Heroes of Our Time” in advance of the album release.

After experiencing the furious fret work of “Through the Fire and Flames,” Guitar Hero fans will have their shredding skills pushed to the limit with “Revolution Deathsquad” and “Operation Ground and Pound” from their third album Inhuman Rampage, in addition to “Heroes of Our Time,” which will set players’ fingers ablaze as they try to keep up with some of the most challenging riffs to date.


The three-song DragonForce Track Pack will be available for download on Xbox LIVE Marketplace for Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and in the PLAYSTATION Store for the PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system on August 21, 2008.

Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock offers the ultimate rock experience with new wireless guitars, freshly added content and features including a multiplayer action-inspired battle mode, grueling boss battles, a host of exclusive unlockable content and visually stunning rock venues. Expanded online multiplayer modes allow axe-shredders worldwide to compete head-to-head for true rock status as they riff through a star-studded soundtrack including master tracks by legendary artists such as Aerosmith, Guns 'N' Roses, The Rolling Stones, Beastie Boys, Rage Against the Machine and Pearl Jam, as well as original songs by guitar icons Slash and Tom Morello. Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock is now available and is rated "T" for Teen by the ESRB. For more information visit http://community.guitarhero.com.

Jimi Hendrix video game debut on Guitar Hero - World Tour

Video Game to Feature Music and Likeness of One of Rock's Most Influential Guitar Legends

The iconic legacy of late singer/guitarist Jimi Hendrix continues in the upcoming Guitar Hero World Tour video game from Activision. One of the most creative and influential musicians of the 20th century, Hendrix will be featured in the game as a playable character, along with two of his most recognisable master tracks, “Purple Haze (Live)” recorded in 1969 at the San Diego Sports Arena and “The Wind Cries Mary.” Additional exclusive songs from the legendary artist will follow as downloadable content.

“Guitar Hero games have become the virtual rock stage for the industry’s most beloved artists and Guitar Hero World Tour continues that tradition by honoring the great Jimi Hendrix and celebrating some of his greatest work,” said Tim Riley, Vice President of Music Affairs for Activision Blizzard. “His presence in the game will serve to satisfy multiple generations of his fans and Guitar Hero devotees, as well as create new fans by reintroducing his genre-defining guitar style through the unique Guitar Hero experience.”

Guitar Hero World Tour is being developed by Neversoft Entertainment for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system. The Nontendo Wii version is being developed by Vicarious Visions. The PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system version is being developed by Budcat. The game is not yet rated by the ESRB. For more information on Guitar Hero World Tour, please visit www.guitarhero.com.


About Activision
Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, Activision, Publishing, Inc. is a leading worldwide developer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment and leisure products.

Activision Publishing maintains operations in the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Sweden, Spain, the Netherlands, Australia, Japan and South Korea. More information about Activision Publishing and its products can be found on the company's website, www.activision.com.

Guitar Virtuoso track pack for Guitar Hero III

Joe Satriani, Steve Vai and Buckethead to Headline

World renowned for their amazing shredding abilities, three legendary guitar artists make their virtual debut in Activision Guitar Hero III: Legends Of Rock. The Guitar Virtuoso Track Pack continues the ultimate rock experience with three fresh master tracks set to storm living rooms across the globe on July 24.

Experience influential guitarist Joe Satriani’s soulful 1987 hit, “Surfing with the Alien,” get blown away with guitar slinger Steve Vai’s reflective, “For the Love of God,” and feel the avant-garde compositions of underground rock’s most eccentric guitarist, Buckethead, as he shreds “Soothsayer,” at hyper-speed.

The Guitar Virtuoso Track Pack will allow rockers to further expand and customise their Guitar Hero play lists and get a taste of this quintessential rock trio beginning July 24 when it’s available for download on Xbox LIVE Marketplace for Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PLAYSTATION Store for the PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system.

Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock offers the ultimate rock experience with new wireless guitars, freshly added content and features including a multiplayer action-inspired battle mode, grueling boss battles, a host of exclusive unlockable content and visually stunning rock venues.

Expanded online multiplayer modes allow axe-shredders worldwide to compete head-to-head for true rock status as they riff through a star-studded soundtrack including master tracks by legendary artists such as Aerosmith, Guns 'N' Roses, The Rolling Stones, Beastie Boys, Rage Against the Machine and Pearl Jam, as well as original songs by guitar icons Slash and Tom Morello. Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock is now available and is rated 12+ by PEGI and 12 by the BBFC. For more information visit http://community.guitarhero.com/.

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Guitar Hero - World Tour - Fact Sheet

When the house lights go down this fall, a new generation of axe shredders, drummers and fearless frontmen will be born with Activision’s Guitar Hero World Tour. The latest installment in the best-selling music/rhythm video game franchise, 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 wireless instruments with new revolutionary online and offline gameplay modes including online Band Career and 8-player “Battle of the Bands,” which allows two full bands to compete head-to-head online for the first time ever. The game features a slick newly redesigned guitar, an authentic electronic drum kit and a microphone, as well as an innovative Music Studio music creator that lets players compose, record, edit and share their own rock ‘n’ roll anthems.



KEY FEATURES:

• State of the Art Wireless Instruments – In addition to a newly redesigned, more responsive guitar controller which features a touch-sensitive slide bar on the neck, Guitar Hero World Tour will deliver the most realistic drum experience ever in a video game with an authentic drum kit. Featuring three drum pads, two raised cymbals and a bass kick pedal, the drum controller combines larger and quieter, velocity-sensitive drum heads with soft rubber construction to deliver authentic bounce back and is easy to set up, move, break down and store.
• The Next Great Songwriter, is You – Guitar Hero World Tour’s innovative new Music Studio lets players express their musical creativity by giving them access to a full complement of tools to create digital music from scratch utilizing the redesigned touch-sensitive guitar controller and an authentic drum kit. Virtuosos can then play their compositions in-game and share the recordings with the entire Guitar Hero community through GHTunes where other gamers from around the world will be able to download and play their original tracks. Available to Xbox 360 and PlayStation3 gamers is Line 6’s guitar tone technology, enabling them to use amps, cabs and effects from the world-renown Line 6 POD.
• An Original Set List that’s Truly “Everlong” – Guitar Hero World Tour features the largest, most diverse on-disc set list to appear in a music-based video game. Comprised entirely of memorable master recordings from some of the greatest artists of all-time including Van Halen, Linkin Park, The Eagles, Sublime and many more, Guitar Hero World Tour delivers over 85 tracks for countless hours of rocking. In addition to the killer track list, the game will feature rock icons such as Hayley Williams of Paramore and Travis Barker of +44 and blink-182 and a collection of many other superstar musicians making their video game debuts on the Guitar Hero stage.
• Don’t Stop Till You Get Enough – Starting with initial releases at launch, gamers will be able to expand the “Everlong” set list with frequent downloadable singles and track packs – including for the first time ever, in-game downloadable content on Wii. Making the options endless, rock stars will have a limitless supply of downloadable content through GHTunes™ creating a set list where the music never ends. In both the quickplay and career game modes, gamers can build their own playlists which allow them to select and perform up to six tracks in a single gig.
• Making the Band – Guitar Hero World Tour features an all-new cooperative band experience allowing gamers to share in the most social and expressive music revolution ever. Budding rock stars can live out their rock ‘n’ roll fantasies by playing either a single instrument or any combination of instruments, in addition to the full band experience. When rocking as part of a band, up to four players can jam together in quickplay or as they progress through a career. Both band and single-player careers feature non-linear progression giving artists the option to change difficulty and instruments with a variety of different gigs available at any time.
• Global Invasion – Guitar Hero World Tour introduces revolutionary new online game modes including “Battle of the Bands” which allows eight players to join online and challenge each other band-to-band to establish global supremacy. Virtual musicians in need of band mates can take their careers online forming worldwide ensembles so no rock star ever has to play a gig solo.
• Fully Customizable – Featuring one of the most extensive character creators ever, Guitar Hero World Tour allows gamers to create a rock star with style as unique as their own. Absolute customization from the clothes to the facial and body structure to the tattoos and accessories, players are encouraged to unleash their inner rock legend. The Rock Star Creator doesn’t just allow players to build the ultimate rock god; the in-depth creators include the ability to customize guitars, drums and microphones. Adding yet another layer of personalization, gamers can create custom logos for their instruments, band or album covers.

Publisher: Activision, Inc.



Developer: Neversoft (Xbox 360 and PS3)
Budcat (PS2)
Vicarious Visions (Wii)

Release Date: Fall 2008

Guitar Hero: On Tour Sets Activision North American Retail Sales Record

Activision, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI) today announced Guitar Hero: On Tour has sold in excess of 300,000 units in North America in the first seven days since its launch, making it the largest North American launch for the Nintendo DS in the company's history by more than a factor of eight. In addition, Guitar Hero: On Tour's performance ranks it as one of Activision's top 5 best-selling launches of any title on any platform in the company's history.

Guitar Hero: On Tour brings the popular Guitar Hero franchise to the handheld platforms for the first time delivering a unique gaming experience and challenging handheld gamers to prove their skills on the most diverse set list of master tracks ever offered in a Guitar Hero game.

"Guitar Hero is one of the most successful entertainment properties and continues to push the boundaries of innovation with Guitar Hero: On Tour," said Mike Griffith, President and Chief Executive Officer, Activision Publishing, Inc. "The game's breakthrough peripheral brings the Guitar Hero experience to the 41 million DS users in North America and Europe, where they can play anywhere, anytime."

Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, Activision, Inc. is a leading worldwide developer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment and leisure products. Founded in 1979, Activision posted net revenues of $2.9 billion for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2008.

Activision maintains operations in the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Sweden, Spain, the Netherlands, Australia, Japan and South Korea. More information about Activision and its products can be found on the company's website, www.activision.com.

All-New Guitar Hero World Tour - American Idols Live Tour

Guitar Hero, the No1 best selling video game franchise of 2007, will go coast-to-coast with the American Idols Live! Tour 2008, kicking off in Glendale, Ariz. on July 1. The sponsorship fuses the two pop culture phenomenons together for a second time, building on the success of the dual-branded "Risky Business" TV advertisements that featured season seven winner David Cook and finalist David Archuleta last month. In the upcoming 53-city tour, concert-goers will be among the first to experience three of the newest Guitar Hero games, the highlight of which will be a sneak-peak video demonstration of Guitar Hero World Tour, which officially hits shelves this fall.



The 10 "Idol" tour finalists will be part of a halftime Guitar Hero World Tour rockumentary, created by advertising agency DDB, that blends the camaraderie of hanging out in the studio with the franchise's latest transformation of music gaming - a slick newly redesigned guitar, a genuine electronic drum kit and a microphone. In each city, expert shredders will also face-off on center stage, and Guitar Hero: Aerosmith and Guitar Hero: On Tour will be available for everyone to play in a booth throughout the tour.

"The American Idols Live! Tour is for families to immerse themselves in the Idol experience first-hand, and what better way to bring a personalized, super star feeling to life than by playing Guitar Hero," said Iain Pirie, head of 19 Entertainment U.S. "Integrating Guitar Hero into the tour gets fans actively involved and provides an added dose of entertainment that we know they'll love."

"The Guitar Hero franchise is continually searching for new and organic ways to connect with music fans," said Robert Kotick, Chairman and CEO, Activision, Inc. "Linking the concert-going experience with a chance for people to feel like they are taking center stage with Guitar Hero delivers on just that. By going from town to town alongside 'American Idol,' we are building a strong community and providing new ways for families and friends to spend time together by sharing the magic of music."

This week, rockers of all ages can enjoy two new video games from the Guitar Hero franchise, including:

- Guitar Hero - On Tour - For the first time ever, Guitar Hero fans can rock out anytime, anywhere with Guitar Hero: On Tour. Designed specifically for the Nintendo DS, Guitar Hero: On Tour is bundled with a revolutionary Guitar Hero Guitar Grip and is currently available in stores nationwide.

- Guitar Hero - Aerosmith - Rock this way with America's greatest rock n' roll band, Aerosmith. Relive the band's illustrious career from their early days at Nipmuc High School and continue on their journey to becoming rock royalty. Available on June 29, 2008 for Xbox 360, PlayStation 2, PLAYSTATION 3 and Nintendo Wii.

Guitar Hero On Tour Explodes onto Nintendo DS This Summer

Guitar Hero On Tour Explodes onto Nintendo DS This Summer

New Game Introduces Revolutionary Guitar Hero Guitar Grip Peripheral for Anytime, Anywhere Guitar Hero Gameplay

For the first time, handheld gamers will have the freedom to unleash their inner rock star anywhere, anytime with Activision upcoming Guitar Hero: On Tour for Nintendo DSTM. The game will deliver a unique Guitar Hero experience by challenging handheld gamers to rock out and prove their shredding skills on the most diverse set list of master tracks ever offered in a Guitar Hero game, including classic rock, alternative and pop favorites such as Nirvana, OK Go and No Doubt.

The game will be packaged with a revolutionary Guitar HeroTM Guitar GripTM peripheral that fits snugly into the DS and a unique Guitar Hero pick-stylus that brings a new dimension to handheld gaming and the core gameplay that defines Guitar Hero. Guitar Hero: On Tour has been designed specifically for the DS platform and will offer the DS audience an all-new compelling music experience.

"We are continuing to introduce new and exciting ways to bring music to audiences with Guitar Hero," said Dusty Welch, head of publishing for Activision/RedOctane. "The Guitar Hero Guitar Grip redefines how games can be played on handheld systems and the integration of the microphone and touch screen gameplay on the DS, further illustrates Guitar Hero's leadership in delivering the most unique and creative quality hardware and software on the market."

"We're designing Guitar Hero: On Tour from the ground up to take full advantage of the DS platform by integrating signature gameplay with fresh new content and DS specific features," said Karthik Bala, CEO of Vicarious Visions. "We've taken all of our learnings on the DS platform to date and pushed it to the limits to create a truly innovative Guitar Hero experience."

Guitar Hero: On Tour continues to build on the franchise's signature easy-to-play, yet difficult to master addictive gameplay, and now lets players take their experience on the road wherever they go. Players use the Guitar Hero pick-stylus on the touch screen to strum their favorite tunes and create their rock 'n' roll legacy in career mode.

Fans can also join together to play co-op mode using a local wireless network, or battle each other in a Guitar Duel using new Battle Items unique to the DS platform. For example, players must blow into the microphone to extinguish a pyrotechnics effects gone wrong, or use the touch screen to autograph a crazed fan's shirt in the middle of their set.

Featuring five unlockable new venues, the game lets players personalize their experience by choosing the color of their axe of choice, selecting to play as one of six characters - two of which are all new and exclusive to Guitar Hero: On Tour - and outfitting their guitarist in numerous styles.

Guitar Hero: On Tour is being developed by Vicarious Visions for the Nintendo DS. The game is rated "E 10+" (Everyone 10 and older) by the ESRB and is scheduled for release this summer. For more information, visit www.guitarheroontour.com.

Activision Trademarks the DJ Hero name to add to Guitar Hero line up

Activision has been hitting it big with the Guitar Hero franchise, and we know it's looking to expand what it can do with the series. I don't think anyone is going to be surprised by this next bit of news: on February 8, Activision filed to trademark the name DJ Hero.

The trademark refers to "computer game software and related instruction manual sold together as a unit; interactive video game programs; computer game discs; downloadable software for use in connection with computer games; video game controllers; interactive video game comprised of a CD or DVD sold as a unit with a video game controller." It looks like your guitar is going to get a friend.

This isn't a new idea; Beatmania has been around for quite a while. Of course, Guitar Hero is simply a refined version of Guitar Freaks, so this won't be the first time Red Octane and Activision mine an area Konami has had some success in. There is no other information at this time, but it shouldn't be that difficult to adjust the Guitar Hero formula to a DJ set up.

We'll be watching for more information, but it's safe to say that this is the last Hero game we'll be hearing about.

Source: Arstechnica

GUITAR HERO - $3000 prize contest

WHAT: Calling all self-professed Guitar Hero experts! E for All attendees are invited to bring their axes to compete as Target presents the first-ever Guitar Hero event at E for All. During the event, hundreds of competitors will showcase their shredding skills at one of the Guitar Hero II kiosks on the show floor to qualify for the final showdown Saturday on the main stage. Gamers will even get the chance to play Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock before its release on Oct. 28. By out-rocking the competition and impressing the celebrity judges, the true Guitar Hero will walk away with more than $3,000 in cash and Target gift cards.

WHO: Target is giving consumers the chance, courtesy of Activision and RedOctane, to rock at E for All as industry experts judge for scoring, accuracy and performance.

WHEN:
Guitar Hero Event
Oct. 18-20, 2007
Finals will take place Saturday on the main stage.
E for All
Oct. 18-21, 2007

WHERE:
Guitar Hero Event Area – South Exhibit Hall
Los Angeles Convention Center
1201 S Figueroa St
Los Angeles, CA 90015

NEWS/VISUALS:

- Guitar Hero fanatics on stage dressed the part, rocking out for a large audience.
- Expert judges playing the game and interacting with fans.
- Ultimate Guitar Hero being presented with more than $3,000 cash and Target gift cards.
- Fierce face offs between event finalists on the main stage in South Hall.
- Perfect opportunity for broadcast outlets to film general video game footage in preparation for the holiday season.

The game and the name “Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock” and the guitar controller are used for purposes of description only and such use is not intended to suggest or imply Activision and RedOctane’s sponsorship of this Contest.

Neversoft to create new Guitar Hero titles

The development of future titles in the Guitar Hero franchise looks set be taken on by Neversoft, after a recent job listing appeared on the Tony Hawk developer's website.

Harmonix had developed previous titles in the acclaimed series, but has since been bought by MTV Networks for US $175 million in September last year.


Activision acquired original Guitar Hero publisher RedOctane, along with the licence, in May of last year, adding the music franchise to a highly-regarded portfolio of brands that includes Call of Duty, Tony Hawk and Spider-Man.

A spokesperson for Activision would not be drawn on the situation, offering: "Activision does not comment on matters of rumour or speculation."

Neversoft has been an Activision studio since 1999, and has worked on titles such as Tony Hawk's Project 8, Gun and Spider-Man.