'Rock Band' signs iconic music deal

Major plans for Electronic Arts music game Rock Band has been announced after the publisher signed a deal with Fender, Roland and Boss.

A special guitar peripheral will now be modelled on the famous Fender Stratocaster, with Fender basses and amps to also feature in the game.

Guitar effects pedal maker Boss and electronics specialist Roland will also be offering add-on peripherals for the game's release.

“The Stratocaster has been the weapon of choice for many of the world's legendary guitarists,” commented Alex Rigopulos, president of Harmonix.

"Giving the players the opportunity to rock out using a guitar peripheral modelled after the Strat really adds to the authenticity of the experience."

Paul Youngblood, president of Boss, added, “Like the Fender Stratocaster, Boss effects pedals have a long distinguished history.”

"Having the Strat in Rock Band is gong to take the virtual world by storm and when it does, we'll be proud to have the Boss name and pedals right there with it."

Rock Band will be released for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 later this year.