A New Era of Rhythm Gaming
Fans of the iconic 2000s-era rhythm genre have reason to celebrate, as the original architects of Guitar Hero are returning with a brand-new project. Titled Stage Tour, the game is being marketed as a spiritual successor to the games that once dominated living rooms worldwide. The project is scheduled for release on December 10, boasting an impressive library of more than 90 officially licensed tracks.
The Soundtrack Reveal
RedOctane Games, a studio composed of developers who worked on the classic Guitar Hero titles, has begun unveiling the game's expansive tracklist. The current list features a blend of rock and metal anthems, including:
- Extreme – "Get the Funk Out"
- Slipknot – "Psychosocial"
- Weezer – "Island in the Sun"
- Red Hot Chili Peppers – "Dani California"
- Static-X – "Terminator Oscillator"
- BABYMETAL & Electric Callboy – "RATATATA"
- Rise Against – "Broken Dreams, Inc."
While the full list remains under wraps, industry analysts have noted some surprising absences. As reported by Guitar World, "Interestingly, there's no mention of Van Halen yet, but Eddie's offspring, Wolfgang, is to feature with Mammoth's 'The End.' It's a song practically made for a game like this."
Strategic Partnerships and Hardware
The game is bolstered by a significant partnership with the legendary instrument manufacturer Gibson. Players will be able to collect over 180 authentic models from Gibson, Epiphone, and Kramer. Furthermore, the game's virtual environment is designed to reflect the famous Gibson Garage in Nashville, providing an immersive experience for rock enthusiasts.
Platform Availability
Following the conclusion of the Guitar Hero Live era in 2015, the genre saw a long hiatus. The team behind Stage Tour has clarified that this title is a distinct entity and not a direct sequel to previous franchises like Rock Band or the original Guitar Hero. The game is currently available for pre-order and will be playable on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.