Rock Band Makers Creating New Beatles Music Game

The Beatles are finally coming to this generation of consoles.

During a teleconference call with Apple Corps. (the multimedia company, NOT the computer maker), and MTV, Cambridge-based Harmonix announced that it would be working on a new game devoted entirely to The Beatles. While the details are still clouded, what is certain is that the Beatles appearance will not be a Rock Band expansion, but rather a brand new title built from the ground up, according to Harmonix’s own Alex Rigopolis. In what is certainly good news for gamers everywhere, the new game will be 100 percent compatible with existing Rock Band peripherals.

Apple Corps. decided on MTV and Harmonix primarily because of their passion for music, as well as Harmonix being the company that is credited with introducing the masses to music-centric video games. “Introducing the genius of The Beatles to a whole new generation of music lovers through original and inspired ways is extremely exciting to us at Apple Corps,” stated Jeff Jones, CEO, Apple Corps. “We are truly pleased to be working with the innovative forces at MTV and Harmonix as they embody our mutual passions for music and creativity.”

While all the suits seem to be happy with the deal, the Beatles surviving members are also thrilled with seeing their music come to life in a whole new way. “It gives me great pleasure to be part of this partnership,” said Ringo Starr. “The Beatles continue to evolve with the passing of time and how wonderful that The Beatles’ legacy will find its natural progression into the 21st century through the computerized world we live in. Let the games commence.” Paul McCartney also chimed in, saying that “The project is a fun idea which broadens the appeal of The Beatles and their music. I like people having the opportunity to get to know the music from the inside out.”

With the Beatles now attached to Harmonix and Rock Band, one of the hottest game franchises in recent memory, you will now be able to play Yellow Submarine before being able to download it on iTunes. The deal is also sure to strike a blow to Activision and its Guitar Hero franchise, who is currently competing on an even keel with Rock Band.