Guitar Hero coming to Nintendo DS this summer

Handheld gamers are getting their chance to rock out this summer Activision releases Guitar Hero: On Tour for Nintendo DS.

The game also signals the arrival of a new grip attachment for the DS — letting games thrash to their favorite tunes.

“The game will deliver a unique Guitar Hero experience by challenging handheld gamers to rock out and prove their shredding skills on the most diverse set list of master tracks ever offered in a Guitar Hero game, including classic rock, alternative and pop favorites such as Nirvana, OK Go and No Doubt,” Activision said Thursday in a statement.

The new Guitar Hero Guitar Grip peripheral fits snugly into the DS, and a new Guitar Hero pick-stylus brings a new dimension to handheld gaming and the core gameplay that defines Guitar Hero, Activision said. 

“We are continuing to introduce new and exciting ways to bring music to audiences with Guitar Hero,” said Dusty Welch, head of publishing for Activision/RedOctane.  “The Guitar Hero Guitar Grip redefines how games can be played on handheld systems, and the integration of the microphone and touch screen gameplay on the DS further illustrates Guitar Hero’s leadership in delivering the most unique and creative quality hardware and software on the market.” 

“We’re designing Guitar Hero: On Tour from the ground up to take full advantage of the DS platform by integrating signature gameplay with fresh new content and DS specific features,” said Karthik Bala, CEO of Vicarious Visions.  “We’ve taken all of our learnings on the DS platform to date and pushed it to the limits to create a truly innovative Guitar Hero experience.”

Guitar Hero: On Tour will continue to feature easy-to-play-hard-to-master gameplay, and gives gamers the chance to take their virtual guitar playing skills on the road. There’s also a career mode built into the game, wireless network co-op mode and unique new battle items made specifically for the DS.

“On Tour” also includes five unlockable venues, custom guitar colors and six new characters.

For more information, visit http://www.guitarheroontour.com/.