Veteran developers from the original Guitar Hero team have announced Stage Tour, a new rhythm game set to launch this fall on PC and consoles. The game supports plastic instruments, controllers, and keyboards for up to four players. It builds on the legacy of past music titles with partnerships including Gibson.
Several developers who contributed to the early Guitar Hero games on PS2 have formed RedOctane and unveiled Stage Tour during IGN Fan Fest 2026. The studio, reformed in 2025, previously created a plastic guitar controller compatible with Fortnite Festival, Rock Band, and Clone Hero. News of the project first emerged in August 2025, with Simon Ebejer, former Production Director at Neversoft on Guitar Hero titles, leading the effort. Original Guitar Hero founders Charles and Kai Huang have joined RedOctane's advisory board.
Stage Tour aims to revive the rhythm game genre, focusing on rock and metal music, though other genres may be added later. A reveal trailer featured "Terminator Oscillator" by Static-X. Players can form bands with roles for lead, groove, drums, and vocals, each with dedicated peripherals. The game adapts note charts based on difficulty and input method, including PC keyboards and gamepads.
RedOctane has secured a multi-year deal with Gibson for branded in-game guitars, alongside partnerships with Epiphone and Kramer. A Gibson Kramer guitar controller will be available in a launch bundle. "Stage Tour is our love letter to rhythm gaming," said RedOctane boss Simon Ebejer in a press release. "We want Stage Tour to feel familiar and authentic, but also fresh, utilizing modern technology to connect gamers with the music they love."
Taylor Berryman, Sr. Manager of Lifestyle & Licensing at Gibson, added, "Stage Tour is the next evolution of that influence. We’re thrilled to partner with RedOctane to reimagine what rhythm gaming can be." Aspiring artists can submit music via a form on the official website.
Alpha testing is planned for this summer, ahead of the fall 2026 release on PC and a wide range of consoles. Platforms have not been specified yet.
