RedOctaneGames, a studio dedicated to rhythm games, has officially launched, with its first title to be announced later this year.

Founded by seasoned developers from the rhythm gaming world, who have worked on Guitar Hero and DJ Hero, alongside new talent, RedOctane Games is “focused solely on advancing the rhythm game genre” while “combining the past with the future.”

The studio is helmed by former Vicarious Visions studio head and VP of Operations at Blizzard Entertainment, Simon Ebejer, who was the production director on Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock, Band Hero, Guitar Hero 5, Guitar Hero: World Tour, Guitar Hero: Metallica, Guitar Hero: Aerosmith, and Guitar Hero 3: Legends of Rock during his time at Neversoft Entertainment.

In addition, Guitar Hero creators Charles and Kai Huang will join the studio’s special advisory board, bringing “deep heritage and insight to the studio’s future direction.”

RedOctane Games’ first rhythm-based game is expected to be announced later this year, having been in pre-production for the last few months. The studio has emphasised that it has “community-built development at its core” and will ensure players are “part of the creative journey from day one.”

“Rhythm games are about more than just gameplay; they’re about feel, flow, and connection to the music and to each other,” said Simon Ebejer, head of RedOctane Games. “RedOctane Games is our way of giving back to a genre that means so much to us, while pushing it forward in new and exciting directions.”

Earlier this week, we reported on the launch of Day Off Interactive, another studio focusing on a specific genre: strategy and simulation games.