Activision renames Guitar Hero 4 to 'World Tour'

http://www.gamepro.com/news.cfm?article_id=186848

Activision renames Guitar Hero 4 to 'World Tour'
by Blake Snow 05/22/2008

In addition to a name change, Activision on Thursday confirmed a fall release of Guitar Hero World Tour for Xbox 360, PS3, Wii, and PS2, replete with wireless drums, guitar, microphone, a multitrack music studio, and enhanced online multiplayer modes.

"Hey, I'm in the band!"

As previously revealed, Guitar Hero World Tour features all wireless instruments, a multitrack music studio to create original songs (without vocals) that can be uploaded, shared, and in turn downloaded and played by other World Tour owners.

Guitar controllers have been redesigned, in addition to the new drum set, which includes three drum pads, two raised cymbal bads, and a bass pedal. The pads are larger and quieter than Rock Band's 5-piece set, and support velocity-sensitivity for crescendos and better bounce back for drum rolls.

Newly announced features include an online Battle of the Bands mode where two competing 4-piece bands can go head-to-head to determine who has the most skills. There's also an online Band Career mode that presumably allows for online cooperative play. All other online and offline modes from Guitar Hero III are said to be included in the game.

Confirmed tracks include songs from Van Halen, Linkin Park, The Eagles, Sublime and others in what Activision calls the "biggest selection of on-disc music with all master tracks." Also returning from Guitar Hero III is the ability to purchase additional songs from an online store.

"With the introduction of our advanced high-quality new wireless instruments, in-depth customization options and advanced online functionality, Guitar Hero World Tour enables music fans and gamers globally to share in the most social and expressive music experience ever," said Dusty Welch, head of publishing for RedOctane.

Guitar Hero World Tour launches this fall on Xbox 360, PS3, Wii, and PS2. Pricing and an exact date have not been disclosed.