CRKD unveils three new Gibson guitar controllers for Stage Tour
Specially designed guitars for rhythm game enthusiasts hitting shelves in December.
1Nostalgic designs
CRKD has designed three distinct Gibson guitar models for Stage Tour: Les Paul Oxblood, SG Midnight Blue, and 8K Explorer. The Les Paul mirrors Gibson's iconic original design, while the SG model draws inspiration from an unreleased Guitar Hero II concept. The Explorer model is a modern take on the 2007 X-Plorer controller. Each model pays homage to Gibson's historic guitar designs, blending nostalgia with contemporary gaming needs.
2Technological innovations
The new controllers feature Hall effect strum bars, mechanical frets, and LED-lit necks. While Les Paul and SG models offer 500Hz wireless and 1000Hz wired polling rates, the 8K Explorer stands out with 8000Hz polling rate in both wired and wireless modes. These features promise an ultra-low latency gaming experience, crucial for rhythm game precision.
3Platform compatibility
The blue SG model is compatible with PS4, PS5, and PC. The rusty red Les Paul comes in Xbox Series X/S and PC versions, plus an Android/Switch variant. The Explorer works with PC, Android, and Switch. Priced between $120-$130, most models will launch in December alongside the game, though the Explorer ships in mid-January.
4RedOctane collaboration
CRKD partnered with rhythm game pioneer RedOctane to align the controllers' button layouts with Stage Tour's official Kramer wireless guitar. The Kramer controller retails for $110, with a drum kit at $200 and microphone at $30. Notably, the drum kit won't be Switch 2 compatible at launch, though Joy-Con 2s can be used as alternatives.
5Game features
Stage Tour offers five instrument options: lead guitar, bass, drums, vocals, and keyboard. With four difficulty levels (Easy to Expert) plus Expert Plus for drums, the game supports local multiplayer for up to four players and cross-platform online co-op. These features aim to recreate the social gaming experience that made rhythm games popular.
6Music library
The game will launch with over 90 tracks, including newly announced songs from Metallica, Muse, and Red Hot Chili Peppers alongside pop hits by Avril Lavigne and Olivia Rodrigo. The diverse soundtrack caters to various musical tastes, from metal to pop, ensuring broad appeal. Gamescom revealed 20 new songs, bringing the total announced tracks to 45.
7CRKD-Gibson partnership
CRKD's collaboration with Gibson isn't new. The company has previously produced rhythm game controllers inspired by Gibson's classic guitar designs. This new series represents the latest in their ongoing partnership, translating Gibson's musical instrument legacy into gaming peripherals that bridge physical and digital music experiences.
8Rhythm game revival
Stage Tour and these specialty controllers could reignite the early 2000s Guitar Hero craze. CRKD's move signals a resurgence in the rhythm game market. By combining nostalgic elements with high-tech features, these controllers aim to attract both veteran players seeking nostalgia and new generations discovering rhythm games for the first time.