Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock preview

http://www.talktalk.co.uk/games/previews/2010/09/13/guitar-hero-warriors-of-rock.html

Yes, it's that time again; there is another Guitar Hero release on the near horizon, so we'll be dusting off our leather trousers and getting down to the pound shop for some discount hairspray. And perhaps playing some music too.


Anyway, the latest in the long line of games in the eponymous series is entitled 'Warriors of Rock', suggesting that Activision are ready to reclaim their place as top dog in the music sim market, given the rising success of such titles as DJ Hero. Given the statment of intent, the setlist had to pack a punch to make any real impact, but even a casual glance will tell you that this is one of the most impressive setlists to date. Aerosmith, Black Sabbath, The Cure, Fall Out Boy, Foo Fighters, Interpol, KISS, Linkin Park, Muse, The Offspring, Queen, The Rolling Stones, Slayer, The White Stripes, and ZZ Top are just some of the 90+ names that feature, with loads more picking up the slack, while there will undoubtedly be a whole host of DLC songs to add at your own leisure.

Tom Riley, Vice President of Music Affairs for Guitar Hero, said: "We engaged our fans to find out what they really wanted and then hand-picked over 90 tracks that deliver the ultimate rock experience. From the new guitar controller to the gameplay to the on-disc set list, Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock is truly a return to rock." And rock we shall. So, along with a whole host of new songs, there are a number of new additions to the series in 'Warriors of Rock'; Quest Mode is an all-new story mode this time around, whereby you "...join with friends on an epic rock journey (and use) unique, game-changing powers to help the Demi-God of Rock take down "The Beast" to save rock.
Not too much of an ask then for our sweaty fingers.


The controller has also been redesigned, and is customisable; all essential parts are now contained within the neck allowing removable 'wings' to be replaced with alternatives, giving gamers the chance to tailor the guitar controller to their own unique styles, for those of you who like to rock out in style. Party Play, Competitive modes and any combination of up to four instruments all make a return for 'Warriors of Rock', while another new mode, Quickplay+, promises to be fast and furious for those seeking a quick burst of frenetic fun.

It'll be interesting to see whether Activision's hugely successful series can keep up its popularity, given the sheer number of Guitar Hero games on the market already. However, judging by the setlist, new custom guitars, and the new modes available, Activision won't just be sitting back and cashing the cheques - they'll definitely be making some serious cash, but they'll rock all the way to bank.

Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock is out on 24th September 2010, and is available for the PS3, Xbox 360, and Nintendo Wii.