New Guitar Hero Controller Releasing for the Wii in 2025

Wii Guitar Hero Controller Makes a Comeback in 2025

A new Guitar Hero controller for the Wii, the Hyperkin Hyper Strummer, is hitting Amazon on January 8th, priced at $76.99. This unexpected release likely targets retro gamers seeking a nostalgic experience and those eager to revisit the Guitar Hero and Rock Band franchises. The controller offers a fresh opportunity to reignite the passion for these classic rhythm games.

The announcement is surprising, given the Wii console and the Guitar Hero series are both long discontinued. The Wii, while a significant success for Nintendo after the GameCube, ceased production in 2013. The last mainline Guitar Hero game, Guitar Hero Live, arrived in 2015, with the final Wii installment, Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock, launching in 2010.

Hyperkin's Hyper Strummer, however, is designed for Wii versions of Guitar Hero and select Rock Band titles (Rock Band 2, 3, The Beatles, Green Day, and Lego Rock Band), requiring a Wii Remote for operation. It's an updated version of a previous Hyperkin controller.

Why a New Wii Guitar Hero Controller Now?

The target audience for this controller is a niche market. With both the console and game series discontinued, mass appeal is unlikely. However, the controller caters to retro gaming enthusiasts and players whose original peripherals have worn out. Many may have abandoned the games due to broken controllers, especially since official replacements are no longer available. The Hyper Strummer provides a fresh, reliable option for nostalgic fans.

Renewed interest in Guitar Hero also plays a role. The recent inclusion of a rhythm game mode in Fortnite has sparked a renewed interest in the genre. Furthermore, the rise of "perfect playthrough" challenges has created demand for reliable controllers, making Hyperkin's new offering attractive to players aiming for flawless performances.