harmonix
Latest
GHII guitar works on Windows, Frets on Fire
As if Guitar Hero II wasn't enough on its own, it seems the X-plorer guitar does even more than expected. Our overlords and fellow slaves of rock at Joystiq have discovered that the X-plorer guitar controller that ships with the Xbox 360 version of Guitar Hero II works flawlessly with Windows. The device reportedly works in both Windows XP and Vista. The fret buttons correspond to buttons 1 through 5, back and start control 7 and 8, the D-pad and strummer control the Point of View Hat, the whammy bar controls X rotation, star power controls Y rotation and the Z-axis moves as you move the guitar.With some control configuration, the peeps at Joystiq even managed to get the guitar up and running with the freeware PC Guitar Hero clone, Frets on Fire. Getting the guitar to control a guitar game is interesting, but we're not satisfied. No, we won't be satisfied until we're pulling off headshots with our guitar. Even better, we'd like to see someone rig a music program to use the guitar as an actual instrument. Maybe someone could whip something up with Game Studio Express. Anyone care to take up the challenge?[Via Joystiq]
GHII trailer rocks on Marketplace
If by some insane chance you've missed the metric ton of Guitar Hero II coverage this week, you may be interested to know that the official commercial is now available on Xbox Live Marketplace. If you don't know what Guitar Hero II is all about, the commercial should give you an idea. Basically, rock and roll can (and does) save the world. You won't be destroying any meteors during the game, though you may feel like you have that kind of power once you finish playing. Go download and enjoy (unless you already have the game, in which case you'd probably prefer not to be bothered).You can check out the "as seen through a screen door" version here.
GHII X-plorer problem explored, culprit found?
Possessing a Geraldo-like level of journalistic investigation skills, our cruel masters at Joystiq have uncovered more info on the faulty X-plorer guitars that shipped with the Xbox 360 version of Guitar Hero II. It seems that the majority of whammy bar problems are being reported by owners of the guitar with the pedal jack near the power chord, model 95055. The other model, with the pedal jack near the headset jack and shoulder strap, model 95065, doesn't seem to be generating as many complaints (though our own David Dreger is reporting issues with his). Red Octane hasn't made any official announcements regarding its investigation of the matter.For clarity's sake, your best bet is to look for a box with Part No. 95065. The part number is located above the ESRB rating on the back of the box. Find a detailed image of the part number location after the break.
Buy Tony Hawk's board-burdened GH guitar, help starving musicians
Here's a charity item we guarantee no one has ever auctioned off before: a Guitar Hero controller bonded to a skateboard fragment -- with Tony Hawk's siggy, no less. Bidding starts at $100 and proceeds go to the MusiCares organization, which catches panhandling musicians in a delicate safety net and provides them with "critical assistance" (read: not a record deal). Some 29 other celeb- and rocker-decorated GH controllers are also up on eBay to support the cause.For anyone hoping for more than just a geeky display piece, please note the fine print: "Owing to customization, the controller is offered solely as an art object and is not guaranteed to have retained any functionality; buyers who choose to connect the controller to a console do so at their own risk." (Ever seen a skate-guitar asplode...?)[Via IGN]
Red Octane on GHII X-plorer issues
After a request for comment from Joystiq, Red Octane has officially responded to the reported problems with the Xbox 360 Guitar Hero II X-plorer guitar. For those that missed the news, it seems that many people are experiencing problems using the whammy bar on the X-plorer guitar for the Xbox 360 version of GHII. Some claim that it is slow to respond to input, or that it doesn't respond at all. Users are also complaining of faulty tilt controls. There are two different controller models, distinguishable by the location of the pedal jack (either near the power cable, or near the headset jack and shoulder strap; both models pictured above). We've received reports of problems with both models.In response to the reported problems, a spokesman from Red Octane told Joystiq, "In regards to the controller, we're currently in the process of having our internal QA and production teams look into this possible issue, and are working to quickly isolate this if there is one. In the meantime, we suggest our fans try to replug in their guitars without holding down any buttons or the whammy bar, and that may help immediately resolve the issue." You heard the man, you'd best resist the urge to fiddle with your whammy bar when plugging in your guitar. As for the "recall," Guitar Hero's street date lockout caused Target computers to register the product as "Recall for Sale." For now, there is no official recall of Guitar Hero II and its X-plorer guitar. In the meantime, Red Octane is investigating any flaws in the X-plorer hardware.
X-plorer problems, potential recall?
Apparently, all is not well in the land of rock. Reports are coming in to Joystiq that many Guitar Hero X-plorer guitars have unresponsive whammy bars. We've also received reports, along with Joystiq, that some Target stores are refusing to sell the game, saying that there has been a recall. We have been unable to confirm whether or not there has been a recall yet, though we should know sometime today.Here at Fanboy Towers, we have at least one broken X-plorer, owned by none other than our own David Dreger. It seems that there are two variants of the X-Plorer, one with the pedal jack near the power cord and one with the pedal jack on the bottom of the guitar (near the headset jack and shoulder strap). Joystiq reports that the problem exists in the variant with the pedal jack near the power cord, but David claims otherwise, as his pedal jack is on the bottom. If you've been upset because you cannot yet afford Guitar Hero II (like me), then you may want to hold off a bit longer to see where this all goes. We'll keep you posted on the situation as it develops.[Via Joystiq]Update: Added some language to clarify what is meant by the "bottom" of the guitar.
Man still beats machine at Guitar Hero
It's a scary time to be a human. What with computers matching or improving on human performance in such diverse pursuits as chess and Wii Sports Bowling, the coming robot apocalypse may seem inevitable. But fear not, there is still one power that humans can lord over machines. I speak, of course, of the power to rock! It's not for lack of trying on the machines' part, either. GarageGeeks' GuitarHeronoid makes a passable attempt at playing the game with its image-processing brain, human-like fingers, and shapely mannequin body. As you can see in the video below, though, the results are as of yet not terror-inspiring. More like pity-inspiring. Hey, robot, let us know when you can do better than this kid at PsychoBilly Freakout and we'll stage some sort of rock off. Until then, we'll be stockpiling E-bombs, just in case.
Rock Band will be compatible with Guitar Hero controllers
Thanks to the announcement of Rock Band, our hands were so swollen from high fives that by the end of the night our then pudgy digits could barely wrap around our existing guitar controllers. And that got us to thinking -- sweet mother of maniacal minotaurs! This is going to be one pricey musical toy! It sure would be nice to actually be able to afford Rock Band without having to sell one of our writers on the black market. If only there was a way that we could, you know, use our existing stack of Guitar Hero products.1UP put on their investigating shoes and -- burrowing through the official forum -- found such a confirmation from Rock Band development member, Jason Booth. Debunking a (now edited) IGN article, Booth says, "For some reason, IGN posted that Rock Band will not be compatible with Guitar Hero guitars. I thought I'd drop in and let you know that this is not correct." Sweet, delicious vagueness.So exactly which guitars will you be using to rock? We already know that PS2 guitars won't work on the PS3 without an adapter and said adapter has been deemed "impossible" by the manufacturer. The only other candidate is of course the Xbox 360 controller which, along with the newly endowed effects pedal port, makes it the clear winner in this situation.For PlayStation 3 owners and those who don't plan on picking up the recently released Guitar Hero II for the 360, GameStop has come up with a list of speculative prices for various sets of Rock Band. Though nothing regarding prices or even separate packages have been discussed, seeing the numbers already has us tugging at the collar. [image: NeoGAF]
GHII X-plorer plays nice with Rock Band
For those about to rock that just plunked down $90 for Guitar Hero II, we have some good news. On the official Rock Band website, a Harmonix developer by the name of Jason Booth has confirmed that older Guitar Hero guitars will work with the upcoming title. We assume he's referring to the Xbox 360 X-plorer guitar, as the PS2 guitars are essentially incompatible with the PS3.The politics of this announcement are interesting, as the next iteration of Guitar Hero will be developed by Neversoft instead of Harmonix. Harmonix, meanwhile, is working with MTV and Electronic arts on Rock Band. If Harmonix owns the rights to the Guitar Hero controller, it could mean Neversoft will have to develop a completely new one for Guitar Hero III. Throw in RedOctane's (and thus Activision's) legal battle with The Ant Commandos and it gets even more confusing.Granted, GHIII is still a ways off, but we don't relish the idea of dishing out gargantuan sums of money every time a new music game hits.Here's hoping the X-plorer will be compatible across the board.[Via TeamXbox]
Former RedOctane employees legally lose their rhythm
Two former RedOctane employees, Guitar Hero II executive producer John Tam and brand manager Corey Fong, have settled with Activision regarding a lawsuit the publisher filed against the duo, GameSpot reports. The other parties involved -- PR firm Reverb Communications, peripheral manufacturer The Ant Commandos and former RedOctane employee Jamie Yang -- have not currently settled.Activision claims that Tam and Fong had used their knowledge of its rhythm games improperly in creating and showcasing a demo that aimed at getting funding for a new development house, Lodestone Entertainment (formerly Hourglass Interactive), that intended to develop rhythm titles. Tam and Fong have consented to the judge's permanent injunction that bars the duo from the following: Using the demo they created, which is said to have incorporated elements of Guitar Hero and StepMania, in any way Disclosing or act upon any Activision trade secrets Developing drum-, guitar-, or synthesizer-based games for the next year Working on any Guitar Hero II controllers for the Xbox 360 until six months after the game's release this week Developing any sort of competition for unspecified peripheral devices (effects pedals, perhaps?) found on a confidential list held by Activision until six months after they are released Additionally, Tom and Fong are to turn over "all documents, files, or materials they might have relating to the publisher's proprietary information, Lodestone Interactive, or communications with Reverb and The Ant Commandos" to Activision, according to the report.
As if you need it: Guitar Hero II metareview
Yeah, we know, you're probably sick of all the Guitar Hero II coverage by now, but we promise this we be the last GHII story for at least the next hour or so. Without further ado, behold what the critics have to say about Guitar Hero II. IGN (9.4/10) - "Guitar Hero II on Xbox 360 is the best iteration of the hit music rhythm game yet, but it's also an important addition to the Xbox 360 library. On a console dominated by shooters and action titles, it is one of the few titles that everyone can and will enjoy. RedOctane and Harmonix put their best foot forward with this release The result is a port that adds enough content to make it worth a second look from the hardcore fans, especially with the downloadable songs, and a game that is put together so well that all newcomers should give it a try." TeamXbox (9.3/10) - "The audio was also enhanced in the title's move to the Xbox 360, so if you have a surround-sound setup, you'll really enjoy GHII. On the other side of the coin, the well-defined audio makes some of the weaker song covers stand out that much more. Every time the singer overemphasizes the "RRRRR" in Nirvana's Heart-Shaped Box, [it] felt like fingernails on a blackboard to my ears. " Game Informer (9.5/10) - "Guitar Hero II is a fantastic game. If you haven't already, go out and buy it. It's just that simple." As you can see, a negative review was difficult to find. In fact, 4 of the 12 reviews on Metacritic scored the game at an even 100 out of 100, and none of the remaining reviews dipped below 90. If you believe the critics, it's going to be hard to find a better way to spend $90. What say you fanboys, is it worth it?
Rock Band wireless guitar on GameStop.com
As a general rule, GameStop is perfect for coming up with good video game rumors. In fact, it's practically a rumor generator. That said, this particular product listing is very interesting. Just yesterday, it was announced that Harmonix was working with MTV and Electronic Arts to create Rock Band (think Guitar Hero with a full band). Now we see this listing on GameStop for a wireless guitar controller ($80? Ouch). We have no way of knowing if the controller would be specifically for Rock Band, but we would certainly hope not, considering Guitar Hero II has yet to be blessed with such a peripheral for the Xbox 360. The listing has a ship date of November 1st of this year. Do we really have to wait that long to get some wireless guitar action?And that's when the GameStop rumor train comes full circle, as apparently you can already buy 360 wireless guitars used (they're even back ordered). We'll just have to wait and see how accurate the Rock Band guitar listing turns out to be. Keep your fingers crossed.[Thanks, Shafnitz]
Guitar Hero II Rocks out today
We've waited for months for this day, and lo, it has arrived. Guitar Hero II is out and ready to allow you to jam to the likes of Aerosmith, KISS, Alice Cooper, Stone Temple Pilots, and even shed a tear for My Chemical Romance. Packed with 74 songs and downloadable content available in the coming weeks, this spring is starting off with a bang. So here at Fanboy Towers, only two Fanbloggers have the intention of getting the game, half of which are able to pick it up today, and we'll let you take the wild guess who's who in that situation. But the situation we want to know is whether any of you, dear readers, are planning on busting out the tunes today. Who here is going to rock out and grab GHII today? How about later?
Harmonix introduces "Rock Band" to the world
Harmonix, the legendary minds behind the legendary Guitar Hero titles, have introduced to us the latest idea from their rockin' minds: Rock Band. Along with MTV, Harmonix and Electronic Arts are all gathering their creative forces to create a four-person rock experience, complete with guitar, bass, drums and a microphone for a lead singer. Of course, if you're feeling especially talented, you could be a three-piece band if you can sing and strum simultaneously.Coming to both the PS3 and 360 this coming holiday season (right around Christmas, we'd imagine), there is going to be a wealth of online features to make this game worth the price, even if you've no friends willing to play with you (ahem). Teaming up with musicians across the country and downloading songs... sounds amazing, doesn't it?There's so much coming for this game and hopes are running very, very high. Having been dreamt of for years by gamers and developers alike, the advent of online distribution for games, music, and online features... we can only imagine the badassery this game will provide us. Go ahead and check out the huge preview over at IGN and let us know what you think of this fantastic idea. Not that we're leading you on by calling it a "fantastic" idea or anything...
Guitar Hero going mobile, just like The Who
Hands On Mobile, Inc. announced today that they have entered into an agreement with Activision to produce a Guitar Hero mobile game for handhelds. While we aren't sure if that means cell phones, PlayStation Portables, Nintendo DSs, Game Boy Advances, HP calculators or all of the above, it's further proof of the massive juggernaut that is the Guitar Hero franchise. Although this franchise was announced before, then canceled, it's now apparently been reborn.Plus with the announcement earlier today of Harmonix' Rock Band, Ubisoft's Jam Sessions for the DS, and even the Mother 3 soundtrack being made available on iTunes -- it's clear that games and music are currently making waves. It's like the horror genre in movie theaters right now. Soon you'll be seeing things like Hammered Dulcimer Champion and Harmonica Savior hitting store shelves. We here at Joystiq are really holding out for Kazoo Knights. Wake us when the announcement is on the way.
Harmonix announces Rock Band
Apart from the lucky few that have received their pre-orders early, 360 owners have yet to get their mitts on Guitar Hero II. It may come as a surprise then, that Harmonix, developer of the GH series, has announced its next project, Rock Band. Yes, it's exactly what it sounds like. According to USA Today, players will interact with one of four different devices this time: guitar, bass, drums, or microphone. Not only that, but the game will support online play, allowing different "members" of the band to play with one another across unfathomable distances. What is more, thanks to Harmonix's new owner, MTV, you can expect more original recordings and fewer cover bands this time around. The game will be published by EA and should debut by the end of the year.While we love us some Guitar Hero, we do have our questions. First of all, given the absolute timing necessary for a game of this nature, we have to wonder about the quality of online play. Second, if you manage to get your whole band into one room, you'd best hope you have one huge television. We're not sure the gang will love the idea of squinting the night away as they try to decipher the correct set of rapidly moving colors. And, of course, what happens if you and your friends reach some "creative differences?" What if you have to audition a new drummer? Drummers come and go, you know.Still, the concept is grand, and we can only hope that Harmonix pulls it off. In the meantime, we've got some practicing to do.[Via Joystiq]
Instruction Manual confirms pedal for Guitar Hero's future
When you get your hands on a copy of Guitar Hero II, tomorrow, you'll find in the instruction manual the answer to the question which many inquisitive gamers have been pondering: What's that port on the bottom of the axe for? While it's been rumored for an effects pedal since the first shots showing it were released, it can now be confirmed. The manual explicitly states three things, first that it's for an effects pedal. Secondly, it will, naturally, be sold separately, and finally, that the feature is currently unavailable. We'll probably see it get use in the next iteration of Guitar Hero's series. Would you welcome some footwork when rocking out?
USA Today: Harmonix announces Rock Band for Xbox 360, PS3
Bidding farewell to the solo gig and the lone Guitar Hero, Harmonix has revealed its next game to be a monstrous multiplayer musical mash-up. USA Today reports that Rock Band will simultaneously support four peripherals -- two guitars (one bass, one lead), a drum kit and a microphone. You'd expect things to get cramped with all those blaring devices and gyrating gamers, but we assure you, the world's wide stage is more than accommodating. Arriving on the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 just in time for the holidays, Rock Band will allow you to jam with friends both in person and online. "You could have one guitarist in Germany and another one in Texas, a drummer in New York and a singer from somewhere else, and they can play together online," says EA's unshaken David DeMartini. The article notes that while EA is publishing the game, creative and financial support is provided by new Harmonix owner, MTV. As a result, the game's licensed tunes are expected to come from the original artists. "We'll be covering a great breadth, from metal to classic rock to Southern rock to everything in between," assures Harmonix co-founder, Alex Rigopulos. Once the game arrives, it is likely that more songs will be made available for purchase and download online. With Guitar Hero II arriving on the Xbox 360 tomorrow (6 April in Europe) and Rock Band slated for the end of the year, how long until exhausted gamer bodies hit the flo?[Update: The official press release reveals the list of music labels contributing master recordings: EMI Music, Hollywood Records, Sony BMG Music Entertainment, Universal Music Group's Universal Music Enterprises and Warner Music Group's Rhino Entertainment.]See also: Guitar Hero Effects Pedal confirmed in 360 instructions[Thanks, FranX]
Video: Fan Made Mjolnir Mix on GHII
So, last month we reported the OXM rumor about Halo 2's "Mjolnir Mix" getting into Guitar Hero II for the 360. Well, GameTrailers user moistpjs (heh) made a video from the PS2 version of the game that gives an interesting take on how it would play. Due to our newbian skills, however, we can't figure out if we can embed User made content from Gametrailers, or how he made it all happen. Either it was some very impressive editing skills, or most likely, he haxx0red the song into the game on his PS2 and set the note structure to the music. Whatever way he managed to pull it off, it's a job very well done on his part and we hope to see something official from RedOctane that follows suit in the form of downloadable content off of Xbox Live Marketplace. What did you think of the video? Would you play that song on your 360 version of GHII in a heartbeat?[Via HBO]
A Guitar Hero noob: the obsession begins
So, we went to Best Buy earlier today to nab a replacement headset -- Fancast recording sessions can get a little ... rough -- and then we saw it. Sitting next to the demure Wii kiosk and the somewhat more imposing PS3 kiosk was, naturally, the 360 kiosk. But what was this attached to it? A ... a guitar? We strapped on the white X-plorer guitar, hit up the tutorials, and began to learn about rocking. It wasn't long before we were champing at the bit to play the real thing. Picking Nirvana's "Heart-shaped Box," we began our first foray into Guitar Hero II (die-hard Xbox fanboys that we are, we hadn't experienced the game on PS2). We were ready to rock, or at least that's what we thought. The song, in a twisted reversal of the natural order, proceeded to own us, and on medium (medium!) difficulty, no less. After a quick switch to easy difficulty (oh the shame), we slowly came to grips with the controls and managed to recreate a reasonable facsimile of Nirvana.But that was on easy and our fingers were already cramped. Still, we want more, a lot more. It took some willpower to walk out of that Best Buy and continue blogging, knowing that Guitar Hero II was only 2 miles away. We take considerable comfort knowing that $90 will be ripped from our wallet next week when Guitar Hero II finally arrives. We take comfort because that transaction is no longer a choice. It's a necessity.
