Normally you'd be forgiven for assuming this is just a straight-up cash-in on the success of the new music game platform made up of Rock Band and Guitar Hero, but when the creator is as iconic as KISS bassist, Gene Simmons, you have to respect his gauntlet being thrown into the ring, so to speak.

"I never do anything half way. My AXE controller is the closest thing you can have to being onstage in KISS. I created and designed the Gene Simmons AXE bass guitar and I can't wait for the fans to experience it for themselves", said Gene Simmons. "The Gene Simmons AXE guitar is such a recognisable symbol - people have been asking for a gaming replica ever since Guitar Hero was first introduced."

Atari have let us know they'll be handling distribution of the device here in Australia and yep, it's totally compatible with both Rock Band and Guitar Hero. It will also be made available for Wii, PS2 and PS3 from April. No word yet on an Xbox 360 controller or an overall price-point.