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Computer peripherals

The Future of Interactive Multimedia: Ahead Inc.'s Virtual Guitar Revolution

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

In a groundbreaking achievement in interactive multimedia, Ahead Inc.'s Virtual Guitar is redefining the potential of computer peripherals. This futuristic instrument, which combines the look and feel of a regular electric guitar with cutting-edge technology, has the ability to create music like never before. By connecting to a computer's serial port and installing the accompanying CD-ROM, users can unlock the full potential of the Virtual Guitar, exploring a world of creative possibilities in the game "Welcome to West Feedback."

Key Takeaways:

  • The Virtual Guitar is a revolutionary instrument that uses CD-ROM technology to create music, allowing users to jam with on-screen bands and learn garage-band versions of popular songs.
  • The game "Welcome to West Feedback" is an immersive experience that combines live actors, drawn backgrounds, and clever writing and acting to create a fully imagined world that reacts to the user's actions.
  • The game's characters, including Lloyd and Sheila, provide real-time feedback and encouragement, making the user feel like they are part of a real band.
  • As the user improves, the band gets better, and the user can eventually go head-to-head in a battle of riffs with the flamboyant Chops Felton.
  • Unlike traditional instruments, the Virtual Guitar does not require mastery to produce music, allowing users to create a new sound with ease.
  • Ahead Inc. plans to release a new game, "Quest for Fame," starring Aerosmith, and is also working on a virtual keyboard or drums for release by next Christmas.
  • The game requires a minimum of 6 or 8 megabytes of memory to run smoothly, and users may experience delays and bugs due to the current state of multimedia technology.

Statistics:

  • The Virtual Guitar costs approximately $90 and weighs about 5 pounds.
  • The game "Welcome to West Feedback" is based on Windows and requires a slow serial connection.
  • Ahead Inc.'s president, Alex Donnini, hopes to release a virtual keyboard or drums by next Christmas.
  • The game "Quest for Fame" starring Aerosmith will be released in two disks at a suggested price of about $65.

Sources:

  • Ahead Inc.'s Virtual Guitar
  • "Welcome to West Feedback" game
  • Alex Donnini, President of Ahead Inc.
  • "Quest for Fame" game starring Aerosmith
  • The "Read Me" file of the Virtual Guitar game
  • Cynthia Binfield, reviewer of the Virtual Guitar.

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