Hyperkin's Hyper Strummer: A New Guitar Hero Controller for the Wii
A new Guitar Hero controller is hitting the market for the Nintendo Wii, defying expectations. Hyperkin's Hyper Strummer will launch January 8th, 2025, priced at $76.99 on Amazon. This release targets a niche market: retro gamers seeking a nostalgic experience and those looking to revisit the Guitar Hero and Rock Band franchises.
The Wii, discontinued since 2013, and the Guitar Hero series, whose last mainline entry was 2015's Guitar Hero Live, might seem unlikely candidates for a new peripheral. The last Guitar Hero title on the Wii was 2010's Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock. However, Hyperkin's Hyper Strummer offers a fresh opportunity to enjoy these classic rhythm games.
The Hyper Strummer, an updated model of a previous Hyperkin controller, is compatible with various Wii Guitar Hero and Rock Band titles, including Rock Band 2, 3, The Beatles, Green Day, and Lego Rock Band. Note that it's incompatible with the original Rock Band. The controller utilizes the Wii Remote, inserted into the back.
Why Now? A Resurgence of Interest
The target audience for this controller is clear: retro gamers. Many original Guitar Hero and Rock Band controllers have suffered wear and tear over the years, potentially leading players to abandon the games. The Hyper Strummer provides a solution, allowing nostalgic fans to revisit their favorite titles.
Furthermore, a renewed interest in Guitar Hero has emerged. Factors contributing to this include the recent Fortnite Festival's inclusion of a rhythm game mode reminiscent of Guitar Hero and Rock Band, and the rise of "perfect playthrough" challenges among gamers. A reliable, new controller is a valuable asset for those aiming for flawless performances.
