Rhythm gaming continues to evolve, even as the heyday of titles like Rock Band and Guitar Hero has passed. With the rise of games such as Fortnite Festival and the enduring popularity of Clone Hero, enthusiasts still seek authentic ways to immerse themselves in virtual musical performances. Peripheral manufacturers have responded by introducing new guitar controllers, but Hyperkin's latest offering, the InfinaKore Telecaster Edition, stands out as a potentially groundbreaking innovation.
This cutting-edge controller, inspired by the classic Fender Telecaster, distinguishes itself through unparalleled modularity. Unveiled at CES 2026, the InfinaKore can be almost entirely disassembled, giving players the freedom to design and integrate custom components using 3D printing technology. Hyperkin plans to support this customization by releasing open-source 3D printing files for various parts, including the body, fret buttons, tuner head, whammy bar, and strum bar, enabling users to craft a truly bespoke instrument for both aesthetic and accessibility purposes.
Beyond customization, the InfinaKore Telecaster Edition prioritizes inclusivity, offering features that cater to a wider range of players. Hyperkin's Chief Technology Officer, Slade Dude Suzuki, highlighted the controller's thoughtful design, such as a whammy bar placement that accommodates both left and right-handed users without impeding strumming. Additionally, a switch allows the strumming action to be reassigned to a button, providing an alternative for those unable to use the strum bar. The open-source nature of the design further empowers users to create specialized components, like strumbars tailored for individuals with arm amputations, demonstrating a commitment to making rhythm gaming accessible to all. The InfinaKore is slated for a 2026 release, with compatibility for Fortnite Festival and Clone Hero confirmed, and will be optimized for Echo Factory Interactive's new rhythm game, Sound System, which will launch on PC in the spring, with console versions planned for later.
The InfinaKore Telecaster Edition embodies a forward-thinking approach to gaming peripherals, blending personalization with accessibility. By empowering players to customize their controllers through 3D printing and offering inclusive design features, Hyperkin is not only enhancing the rhythm gaming experience but also fostering a vibrant community of innovation and creativity. This revolutionary controller paves the way for a more personalized and accessible future in interactive entertainment, ensuring that the joy of rhythm games can be shared by everyone.