The latest iteration of the Guitar Hero franchise, Smash Hits is exactly what it sounds like: a compilation of the best songs from previous Guitar Hero games.  One one hand, the entire idea of a greatest hits game reeks of "easy cash grab", especially given Activision's reputation for milking franchises dry.  On the other hand, these songs are indeed great, and they are fun to play, even the second time around.  The true value of GH Smash Hits lies somewhere between these two extremes.

Some people may have missed it, but a demo for Guitar Hero Smash Hits was released on Xbox Live Arcade during E3.  Containing three tracks; Franz Ferdinand’s “Take Me Out,” Wolfmother’s “Woman” and Kiss’ “Rock and Roll All Nite.”, rockers can get a taste of the upgraded "classic" songs from previous Guitar Hero titles.  

The final song list for next month's Guitar Hero Smash Hits has made it to the internet.  Previously, the songs included from the original Guitar Hero, as well as Guitar Hero 2, had been revealed.  Now, the contributions from GH3, Rocks the 80s, and even a song from the Aerosmith disc are all included.

Call it recycling or any easy cash grab if you will, but there are lots of reasons to be excited about June release Guitar Hero Smash Hits.  Master tracks with the original artists and four player co-op including drums and vocals are the most obvious.  Remember, too, that for PS3 and Wii gamers, Guitar Hero 3 was the first title available.

Another week, another set of songs from Guitar Hero Smash Hits has been revealed.  To my own personal delight, the songs listed this week are from the classic that started it all, Guitar Hero (which sadly didn't feature co-op).  You'll recall I was pulling for Pantera and Blue Oyster Cult, and it appears my wish has been granted!  Both of those bands are in Guitar Hero Smash Hits, along with a few others you may have heard of...

The recently renamed Guitar Hero Smash Hits is coming to consoles in June.  Smash Hits is a compilation of songs from previous Guitar Hero games, this time with full four player band support, adding in drum and singing parts.  Tunes from Guitar Hero 1, 2 and 3, plus the Rocks the 80s expansion, will be included.  A total of 48 songs will make their way onto the Smash Hits setlist.

Activision has sent along word that the game formerly known as Guitar Hero Greatest Hits is now known as Guitar Hero Smash Hits.