14 DAY TRIAL // Lately, the Internet has been filled with rumors that Harmonix, the developer of the extremely popular Rock Band series of games, would develop, in partnership with Apple, a game based on songs from the cult band, the Beatles.
We reported on these rumors, which turned out to be true, after Harmonix released an official statement. But until recently, nothing new about the game appeared and people were left to speculate on the ideas that would be implemented in this game, slated for a late 2009 release.
Dan Teasdale, lead designer for Rock Band said that the fact that Harmonix was creating a Beatles game was a dream come true. "The Beatles are amazing. To make it clear, this isn't a Rock Band game, this is a new experience for the Beatles. It's a way to experience the Beatles' music, it's a way to bring this to a whole new audience as well as people who are huge fans of the Beatles. From our end it's amazing...the Beatles are the biggest band in the world. They're music legends, and to be able to bring that experience to everyone is a great honor."
John Drake, PR spokesperson for Harmonix revealed a few interesting details on the deal between Apple, the owner of the rights of the Beatles song portfolio, and his company. He went on to say that the game had been in development for over 17 months, a great amount of time in which the team had been really supportive and didn't let anything slip out about this project.
"We've been in talks with them for a very, very, long time. Apple Corps CEO Jeff Jones was saying that they respected and appreciated what Harmonix does creatively for rhythm games...being pioneers in the field, bringing the full band experience, and we, of course, are colossal fans of the Beatles so there's not too much to think about why it's a great deal. From a PR perspective it is amazing that this has not leaked out in 17 months. This is the happiest day of our lives."
The game is set to feature about 45 tracks from the songs created by the legendary band between 1962 and 1969. Harmonix also promised to reveal even more details as we approach the launch period of this very anticipated title.