Disney to enter music/rhythm genre with Ultimate Band

Disney Interactive Studios has announced its own contribution to the popular music/rhythm genre - Ultimate Band for the Nintendo Wii and Nintendo DS.

Unlike Guitar Hero and Rock Band, Ultimate Band does not require specialised peripherals.

Disney said that is is working with some of the very biggest names in rock, alternative, popular, emo and indie rock music to provide a broad selection of current hits and all-time rock favorites.

"Ultimate Band invites kids, tweens and teens to join in the jam session," said Craig Relyea, senior vice president, global marketing, Disney Interactive Studios.

"And whether they choose guitar, drums, bass or front man, members donât need to buy costly, single-function peripherals to play their way through Ultimate Bandâs deep song list, dynamic venues, and customizable characters.

"The Wii Remote and DS stylus are the only tools theyâll need to reach rock stardom in Ultimate Band."

The Wii version utilises the Wii Remote and Nunchuk to give players the ability to play the drums, bass guitar, lead guitar, or take on the role of the front man. The DS version contains a built-in recording studio.

The game is being developed by Fall Line Studio in conjunction with London-based music consultants Radial Music and is scheduled for a release during the 2008 holiday season.