Meet Stage Tour, the Official Successor to Guitar Hero

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In August of last year, RedOctane announced its return to develop an official successor to the classic Guitar Hero. That successor, Stage Tour, was unveiled less than six months later. RedOctane Games, comprised of original Guitar Hero creators, describes Stage Tour as a spiritual successor to rhythm games. The game’s trailer highlights the influence of Guitar Hero, showcasing similar band visuals, stage setups, and on-screen button prompts. RedOctane states on its official blog that Stage Tour is a platform rather than a series of distinct games. Eschewing multiple releases, the game will receive ongoing updates featuring new songs, stages, instruments, and characters—similar to Guitar Hero Live, released in 2015. RedOctane has confirmed that players can form a full band and choose to play guitar, bass, drums, or vocals, either solo or with others. The game will feature custom instruments, including a microphone, drum set, and a guitar inspired by the Kramer model from Gibson, complete with the five characteristic buttons. For those who prefer not to purchase instrument controllers, Stage Tour will also support traditional console joysticks and keyboards. The company plans to sell instrument bundles that include a download code for the digital version of the game.

The launch setlist is nearing completion, with song reveals planned over the coming months. A closed alpha test, open to all who register, will precede the launch. While a firm release date is pending, the current target is mid-September to October, placing it in the Northern Hemisphere’s autumn. The platforms have yet to be confirmed, but the game will be available on consoles and PC. RedOctane also announced that Stage Tour aims to be a spiritual successor to its iconic Guitar Hero franchise, arriving on PC and consoles by late 2026. Simon Ebejer, Head of Studio at RedOctane Games, stated that the goal is to balance familiarity and realism with modern technology to create something new and exciting. Players can create their own bands, assigning roles such as Lead, Groove, Drums, or Vocals, and customize their Gibson guitar and bass designs. As players progress, they can unlock legendary rewards, exclusive content, and bragging rights. Taylor Berryman, Senior Manager at Gibson Lifestyle and Licensing, added that their mission is to reimagine rhythm gaming and foster a deeper connection, creativity, and enduring love for music among gamers of all ages.

Stage Tour’s Launch Information Across Social Media Channels

Information regarding Stage Tour is available through the crowdfunding campaign and PlayersForLife Games’ channels on YouTube, Facebook, Twitch, TikTok, and Instagram.