Guitars have been a popular choice for anyone wanting to learn how to play a musical instrument–they’re easy to learn and challenging to master–and if you’re looking to do just that, you might want to check out this controller and teaching game for Nintendo Switch. Hori Guitar Life launched last year in Japan, and preorders have now opened up for the peripheral ahead of its US release. Priced at $100, it’ll be released on December 15, and you can preorder it now through Amazon. Just remember–no Stairway.
$100 | Releases December 15
Unlike other guitar controllers on the market, the Hori model is designed to accurately replicate the feel of a traditional acoustic guitar and is ergonomically shaped to be comfortable to use. The controller is equipped with pressure-sensitive strings and even includes a pick for when you start strumming, while the software that comes bundled with it offers interactive lessons. Additionally, you can track your progress, see which areas you need to improve on, and use various modes to hone your skills. These include Lesson, Free Play, Musical Performance, Chord Run, and Rhythm Riff modes.
For the songs, Hori has included the following licensed tracks and public domain classics to learn:
- Sweet Home Alabama
- Amarillo by Morning
- Breakfast at Tiffany’s
- Closing Time
- So Far Away
- Born to Be Wild
- Ramblin’ Man
- Rhinestone Cowboy
- Absolutely (Story of a Girl)
- China Grove
- Happy Birthday to You
- Twinkle Twinkle Little Star
- Jingle Bells
One thing to note here is that the controller is only compatible with original Switch Joy-Cons and not the new controllers that came with the Switch 2. You’ll need to have a right Joy-Con plugged into the controller, but these are widely available. Amazon currently has a great deal on a single right-hand Joy-Con, as it’s selling these for $29.86 (was $50). These are “renewed” models on sale, which means that they’re refurbished controllers. The other option is a traditional two-pack of Switch Joy-Con controllers, and these typically retail for $80 for a brand-new set.
Hori isn’t the only company making guitar controllers right now, as CRKD has also ventured into this space. The CRKD Gibson Les Paul Wireless Guitar controllers work on multiple platforms, with pricing starting at $115 for the Black Tribal Encore edition and $125 for the Blueberry Burst Pro version. The company also offers the Neo S, a smaller controller priced at $60 that comes equipped with a five-fret attachment.
Potential Nintendo Switch owners looking to get something for the holiday season are spoiled for choice right now. If learning the guitar doesn’t sound too appealing, you can get the new Switch 2 console alongside several big upcoming game releases like Kirby Air Riders, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment, and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond. For a closer look at everything available, you can click through to see GameSpot’s breakdowns on all the Switch 2 console and game bundles on sale right now.
Check out GameSpot’s buying guides for:
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