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, a console long considered obsolete. Hyperkin's Hyper Strummer, priced at $76.99 on Amazon, launches January 8th, 2025. This unexpected release targets a niche market: retro gamers seeking a nostalgic experience and players looking to revisit the Guitar Hero and Rock Band franchises.
The Wii, while a significant success for Nintendo in its time, ceased production in 2013. Similarly, the Guitar Hero series hasn't seen a mainline release since 2015's Guitar Hero Live, with the last Wii iteration appearing in 2010. Despite this, the Hyper Strummer offers a compelling proposition for a specific audience.
The Hyper Strummer, an updated version 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 (but not the original Rock Band). It utilizes a Wii Remote inserted into the back of the guitar.
The Appeal of a Retro Controller
The controller's market viability might seem questionable, given the discontinued status of both the console and the game series. However, the target demographic is clear: retro gaming enthusiasts. Older Guitar Hero and Rock Band controllers often suffer wear and tear, leading many to abandon the games due to malfunctioning peripherals. The Hyper Strummer provides a reliable, readily available replacement.
Furthermore, renewed interest in Guitar Hero has emerged recently. The inclusion of a Guitar Hero-style experience within Fortnite's in-game events has drawn attention. Additionally, the rise of "perfect playthrough" challenges further fuels the demand for a high-quality, responsive controller. The Hyper Strummer offers a solution for players aiming for flawless performances.
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