CRKD Unveils Three New Gibson Guitar Controllers for Stage Tour
Specially designed for rhythm game enthusiasts, these controllers hit shelves on December 10.
1Nostalgic Designs
CRKD has designed three special Gibson guitar controllers for Stage Tour's December 10 launch. The Les Paul Oxblood Edition mirrors the iconic Gibson Les Paul design, while the SG Midnight Blue Edition draws inspiration from an unused PS2 concept for Guitar Hero II. The 8K Gibson Explorer offers a modern take on the classic 2007 X-Plorer controller.
2Technological Innovations
The new controllers feature Hall effect click strum bars, mechanical frets, and LED-lit necks. While Les Paul and SG models offer 500Hz wireless/1000Hz wired polling rates, the Explorer delivers 8000Hz regardless of connection type. All models boast ultra-low latency for optimized rhythm gameplay.
3Platform Compatibility
The blue SG model is PlayStation-licensed for PS4/PS5/PC ($130). The rust-red Les Paul comes in Xbox/PC ($130) and multiplatform ($120) variants. The Explorer works with PC/Android/Switch ($130), shipping mid-January while others launch December 10.
4Stage Tour Features
The game supports lead/bass guitar, drums, vocals, keyboards and gamepads across four difficulty levels (including Expert+ for drums). It offers 4-player local multiplayer, solo modes, online leaderboards and cross-platform co-op, launching with 90+ songs (45 confirmed).
5Pricing & Accessories
The official Kramer controller costs $110, with drum kit ($200) and wireless mic ($30) available. Note: drums won't initially work on Switch 2 (requires Joy-Con 2s or Pro Controller). All accessories and controllers are available for pre-order via Stage Tour's site.
6Musical Lineup
Confirmed tracks include Metallica's 'Lux Æterna', Avril Lavigne's 'Bite Me', Tenacious D's '...Baby One More Time' cover, and ZZ Top's 'Sharp Dressed Man'. With 90+ songs at launch, the game promises an extensive music library for rhythm game fans.
7CRKD-Gibson Partnership
CRKD's strategic collaboration with Gibson follows previous controller lines inspired by classic guitar silhouettes. This new series strengthens both brands' dominance in rhythm gaming, offering nostalgic experiences particularly for Guitar Hero veterans from the early 2000s.
8Industry Impact
Stage Tour's premium launch could revitalize the rhythm game market. CRKD's high-tech yet nostalgic designs may renew interest in physical controllers. Collaborating with iconic brand Gibson could set new standards at the intersection of music and gaming industries.
Original article: Engadget — CRKD'nin Stage Tour İçin Tasarladığı Üç Yeni Gibson Gitar Kontrolcüsü