

**Stage Tour: A New Chapter for Rhythm Games**
A group of seasoned developers from the original *Guitar Hero* franchise has unveiled their thrilling new venture: *Stage Tour*, a rhythm game similar to *Rock Band*, anticipated for launch later this year. The reveal took place during *IGN* Fan Fest 2026, signifying an important achievement for RedOctane, the studio established by previous Harmonix creators who played a key role in the original PS2 *Guitar Hero* series.
In 2025, RedOctane made a comeback to introduce a new plastic guitar controller designed for *Fortnite Festival*, classic *Rock Band* titles, and *Clone Hero*. This resurgence hinted at a broader vision, which *Stage Tour* embodies.
Simon Ebejer, the director of RedOctane, conveyed the studio’s excitement for the project, mentioning that *Stage Tour* is a “celebration of rhythm gaming.” The team intends to combine well-known gameplay with innovative features by leveraging modern technology. Ebejer emphasized their aim to link gamers with their beloved music while creating a platform that can adapt and grow. With new instruments and enhanced charting systems, RedOctane aspires to enrich the rhythm game experience, appealing to both casual users and serious fans seeking greater complexity.
*Stage Tour* will accommodate various control methods, including PC keyboards, and showcase dynamic note charts that adjust according to chosen difficulty and controller type. The studio has collaborated with Gibson to incorporate Gibson-branded guitars into the game, serving as a nostalgic reference to *Guitar Hero*’s early days.
RedOctane has revealed intentions for alpha testing this summer, anticipating a fall launch on PC and a wide array of consoles. As the rhythm game genre progresses, *Stage Tour* aims to reignite the enchantment of previous titles while expanding the limits of what can be achieved in music gaming.