Guitar Hero IV To CC Rock Band??? News

The only rhythm game to currently offer the full rock four-piece experience is Rock Band, what with its guitar, drums, and microphone peripherals. This could all change in future though as Activision's CEO, Robert Kotick, has suggested that Guitar Hero IV could feature other instruments and vocals.

Speaking to Conde Nast Portfolio magazine (via IGN), Kotick said of Activision's Guitar Hero franchise, "It's not just about guitars. We'll include a lot of other instruments, vocals."

Kotick was also enthusiastic about the local content that will feature in Guitar Hero IV: "It will help us expand internationally. It's the first game we've had in which we can use local content and local bands."

Somehow, 'Drum' or 'Vocal Hero' doesn't quite have the same ring to it (even though 'Drum Hero' has already been trademarked by Activision). What would be interesting, however, is if Activision focused on expanding the gameplay depth of its existing Guitar Hero format.

We're talking buttons further up the fretboard for Eddie Van Halen inspired double-handed tapping solos, accelerometers to judge showmanship moves (e.g. playing behind your back a la Jimi Hendrix), or double-necked guitar peripherals if only for The Eagles' Hotel California.