RedOctane Revives Guitar-Based Rhythm Games with a Sensible Approach

The mid-2000s saw the rise of Guitar Hero, a game that revolutionized the music gaming genre. However, by 2009, sales began to decline, and Activision eventually shut down RedOctane. Fifteen years later, RedOctane has re-emerged as a studio focused on rhythm-based games, with a new title in development. The team, led by Simon Ebejer, recognizes that the rhythm game community remains strong, albeit underserved. The studio's approach is now more focused, with a smaller team and a conservative budget. Technology has also evolved, allowing for more efficient game development and updates. RedOctane aims to create an evergreen game that will grow with the community, avoiding the fatigue that plagued the Guitar Hero series. The studio is gathering community feedback and plans to release a game that will feature peripherals, including guitar controllers. While details are scarce, the game is expected to have a strong focus on community and music, with the studio working to secure music licenses and ensure accessibility for players.