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 in 2025, a surprising release given the console's and the game series' discontinued status. The Hyper Strummer, from Hyperkin, launches January 8th on Amazon for $76.99.
This release likely targets retro gaming enthusiasts seeking a nostalgic experience and players eager 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 last mainline Guitar Hero game arrived in 2015, with the final Wii installment launching in 2010.
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 functions by connecting a Wii Remote to the back of the guitar.
Why Now? The Resurgence of Rhythm Gaming
The controller's appeal lies primarily in its potential to reignite interest in a beloved genre. Many original Guitar Hero and Rock Band controllers have deteriorated over time, leaving players unable to continue enjoying the games. The Hyper Strummer provides a fresh, reliable alternative.
Furthermore, Guitar Hero has experienced a recent revival in popularity. Factors contributing to this include the Fortnite Festival's rhythm game mode and the ongoing challenge runs among players aiming for perfect scores on every song. A new, high-quality controller is a valuable asset for those tackling such feats. The Hyper Strummer offers a solution for players seeking to conquer these challenges with consistent input.
