If you haven’t heard the story, here’s a recap. Harmonix finished working on a software patch for the PlayStation 3 version of Rock Band, which would enable third-party peripherals such as Activision’s Guitar Hero III controller to be used with the game. However, according to Harmonix, Activision blocked the release of said patch.

Activision later responded, saying that they did not block the release of the patch at all and that Harmonix “refused” their offer. At that point, it occurred to us that Activision was demanding a license fee. And indeed, that seems to be the case, according to Activision spokeswoman Maryanne Lataif:

Unfortunately for Rock Band users, Harmonix has been unwilling to discuss an agreement that will allow us to provide that option in a manner that maintains the high standards people have come to expect from Activision. We believe we should be compensated for the use of our technology.

So that’s that. Unless Harmonix decides to give in to Activision’s demands, it looks like this patch will never see the light of day.

Standoff hits a sour chord with gamers [Boston]

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