Guitar Hero at 20 – how a plastic axe bridged the gap between rock generations
12 days ago
- #Guitar Hero
- #Rhythm Games
- #Music Revival
- Guitar Hero was launched 20 years ago, allowing gamers to simulate being rock stars with a guitar-shaped controller.
- Developed by Harmonix and published by RedOctane, it was inspired by Konami’s GuitarFreaks.
- The game introduced classic rock bands like Cheap Trick and Lynyrd Skynyrd to younger audiences.
- Licensing music was initially challenging, but success led to bands wanting to be featured.
- Parents appreciated the game for introducing their kids to classic rock, making it a multigenerational experience.
- Bands like The Answer saw renewed interest and legitimacy, shedding the 'dad rock' label.
- Dedicated spin-offs for bands like Aerosmith and Metallica were highly successful, boosting their music sales.
- Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock made DragonForce’s 'Through the Fire and Flames' iconic, boosting their fame.
- The series inspired fan dedication, with players attempting extreme challenges in games like Clone Hero.
- Activision over-saturated the market, leading to a decline, but interest persists with games like Fortnite Festival.
- A new rhythm-based title is in development by RedOctane Games, with original co-founders involved as advisers.