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# Rockstar Gamer Accessories
The Axe Guitar Controller Lets You Shred Like Gene Simmons

By Holger Mohr | Published 2009-03-16 | Tech
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-axe-guitar-controller-for-guitar-hero-rocking-like-gene-simmons
References: [spieletester](http://www.spieletester.com/news/2/16361/gene-simmons-axe-controller-rollt-an/) & [genesimmonsaxeguitar](http://genesimmonsaxeguitar.com/)

Interactive Game Group, e-IQ and [Gene Simmons](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/General-purpose-AI-robots) from KISS have collaborated on a special game controller that’s compatible with “[Rock Band](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fender)” and “[Guitar Hero](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rig-advisor).” The Axe is comparable in design with Gene Simmons’ well-known bass guitar.

Now you can rock out like Gene Simmons without going out. May you be the next housebound Guitar Hero!

**Implications** - Gene Simmons is one of many celebrities who has successfully expanded beyond his initial industry of music and into an array of others, solidifying his iconic status. This is a risky move on part of any celebrity, and can easily be poorly received by consumers; however, if done right, expanding into other industries can increase brand recognition.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 1.1/10
- Popularity: 20% | Activity: 5% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 90% men, 10% women
- Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial
- Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Games](https://www.trendhunter.com/games)

## Key Themes

### Key Themes Behind This Trend

- **Celebrity Expansion:** Expanding into other industries can increase brand recognition.
- **Collaborative Game Controllers:** Collaborating on specialized game controllers can enhance the gaming experience.
- **Iconic Musician Merchandise:** Creating merchandise that reflects the image of iconic musicians can attract dedicated fans.

### Where This Applies

- **Entertainment:** The entertainment industry can benefit from celebrity expansions and specialized game controllers.
- **Gaming:** The gaming industry can explore collaborative partnerships to create unique and immersive gameplay experiences.
- **Merchandising:** The merchandising industry can capitalize on iconic musicians' images by producing merchandise that resonates with fans.

## Related on Trend Hunter

- [Button-Activated Guitar Devices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rockdreamer-guitarbar.md)
- [Racing Wheel-Inspired Joysticks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/john-varvatos-joystick.md)
- [Music-Playing Gaming Controllers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/singing-xbox-controller.md)
- [Contactless Electromagnetic Guitar Picks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kinetic-remote-control-guitar-pick.md)
- [Rock Band-Themed Spirits](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kiss.md)
- [Game-Themed Controller Panels](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/razer-kitsune-fighters-edition-akuma.md)
- [Guitar-Catered Audio Interfaces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/axe-io-one.md)
- [Fashion-Forward Guitar Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gibson-and-marc-jacobs.md)
- [Musician-Approved Mobile Gamer Controllers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/backbone-x-post-malone-controller.md)