Harmonix is aiming for harmony in the music game world, but some sour notes are coming from Activision as of late.
Last week, one of our sources said thatActivision could be behind the delayed releaseof theRock Bandcontroller compatibility patch, which would let gamers use theirGuitar Hero IIIcontrollers withRock Bandon the PS3. And then, things started to come together when we witnessedRed Octane’ssnarlings a few days back. Now we get the full story from a statement from Harmonix, sent to us today.
Two weeks ago, Harmonix created a software patch for the Sony PLAYSTATION 3 version ofRock Bandthat allowed for guitar compatibility and support for third party peripherals, including enabling use of Activision’sGuitar Hero IIIcontroller withRock Band. The compatibility patch was submitted, approved and had been scheduled for release by Sony on Tuesday, December 4. Unfortunately, Activision objected to the release of the compatibility patch. The patch remains with Sony, but we have been told that it will unfortunately not be released due to Activision’s continued objection.
Harmonix would like for Activision to reverse their decision, and would like to seeRock Bandcontrollers work withGuitar Hero III. They go on to say that they welcome third-parties to join in, and will “and will provide any required support in order for them to do so.”
Red Octane hasstated their reasonsfor not allowingRock Bandcontrollers to work with their game, but why blockGHIIIcontrollers from working withRock Band? That just seems mean. C’mon, you used to be buddies!
