CRKD unveils three Gibson-branded controllers for Stage Tour launch

Peripheral manufacturer CRKD has released the Stage Tour Pro Guitar Collection, a trio of Gibson-branded controllers designed for the upcoming rhythm game Stage Tour. The game, developed by RedOctane Games, is scheduled for release on 10 December across PC, PlayStation 5, Switch 2, and Xbox Series X/S. The new hardware line is available for pre-order through the official Stage Tour website or directly from CRKD.

The collection comprises the Gibson Les Paul Oxblood Edition, the SG Midnight Blue Edition, and the 8K Gibson Explorer: 20th Anniversary Edition. Each controller is built in official collaboration with RedOctane and features a streamlined button and bar layout that mirrors the official Stage Tour Kramer Wireless Guitar Controller. The designs draw on nostalgia, with the SG based on an abandoned PS2-era concept for Guitar Hero II and the Explorer inspired by the classic X-Plorer Controller from 2007.

Technical specifications for the new line include Hall effect click strum bars, new mechanical frets, and LED neck lighting. The Les Paul and SG models offer ultra-low latency with polling rates of 500Hz for wireless connections and 1,000Hz for wired use. The 8K Gibson Explorer stands out with a polling rate of 8,000Hz for both wired and wireless modes, catering to players seeking the highest response speed.

Pricing and platform availability vary across the three models. The Gibson SG Midnight Blue Edition is an officially licensed PlayStation product compatible with PS4, PS5, and PC, priced at $130. The Gibson Les Paul Oxblood Edition is available in two versions: an Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC edition for $130, and a multiplatform version for Android, PC, and Switch for $120. The 8K Gibson Explorer is compatible with PC, Android, and Switch, with a price tag of $130.

While the Les Paul and SG models will be available on Stage Tour’s release day in December, the 8K Gibson Explorer is expected to ship in mid-January. This staggered release aligns with the game’s launch window, ensuring that the majority of the peripheral lineup is ready for the initial player base.

Stage Tour aims to revive the rhythm game genre with support for lead guitar, bass, drums, vocals, keyboard, and PC gamepads. The game features four main difficulty settings, including an additional Expert Plus mode for drums, and supports up to four local players. With over 90 songs confirmed at launch, including tracks from artists such as Metallica, Muse, and The Rolling Stones, the title promises a substantial library for players.