Hyperkin's Hyper Strummer: A New Guitar Hero Controller for the Wii

A new Guitar Hero controller is hitting the market in 2025, specifically designed for the Nintendo Wii. Hyperkin's Hyper Strummer, priced at $76.99 on Amazon and launching January 8th, offers a surprising revival for a long-dormant console and game franchise.

This release is likely aimed at two key demographics: retro gaming enthusiasts seeking a nostalgic experience and players eager to revisit the Guitar Hero and Rock Band titles. The Wii, while a significant success for Nintendo in its time, has been discontinued since 2013. Similarly, the Guitar Hero franchise hasn't seen a mainline release since 2015's Guitar Hero Live, with the last Wii iteration appearing in 2010.

The Hyper Strummer, compatible with various Wii versions of Guitar Hero and Rock Band (excluding the original Rock Band), is an updated model from Hyperkin. It utilizes the Wii Remote, inserted into the back of the guitar, for functionality. This offers a solution for players whose original controllers have worn out or become unavailable.

Why Now? A Resurgence of Interest

The timing of this release may seem peculiar, but it aligns with a renewed interest in Guitar Hero. Factors contributing to this resurgence include:

• Nostalgia: The enduring appeal of classic gaming experiences.
• Worn-out Controllers: The need for replacement peripherals for existing games.
• New Challenges: The rise of "perfect run" challenges and similar gameplay goals, demanding reliable controllers.
• Fortnite's Influence: The inclusion of a Guitar Hero-style mode in Fortnite has likely piqued interest in the original games for some players.

The Hyper Strummer provides a fresh, functional controller for players looking to relive the Guitar Hero experience on the Wii, catering to both nostalgic fans and those pursuing high-score challenges.