Rochester teen is world 'Guitar Hero'

Christine Lockerby, nyunews.com

Chris Chike, 16, of Rochester, Minn., became the Guinness World Record holder for the highest score for a song on the videogame, "Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock."

Star Tribune

Last update: March 13, 2008 - 11:55 PM

When it comes to Guitar Hero, a Minnesota teenager is on top of the world -- no strings attached.

Chris Chike, 16, is the Guinness World Record holder for the highest score for a song on the video game "Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock."

In New York City on Tuesday, competing against other gamers, Chike, of Rochester, earned 870,647 points -- or 97 percent completion on the Expert Level -- for the song "Through the Fire and Flames" by DragonForce.

"It's like out of this world," the Century High School junior said just after setting the mark on the plastic guitar.

Players hit buttons (there are no strings) while watching a video screen and score points based on how well they keep time with the song.

"Chris' accomplishments are nothing short of amazing," said Guinness World Records judge Doug Parsons, on hand to certify the attempt.

Chike's record-setting effort at the Web2Zone Cyber Center came during Guinness' launch of its Gamer's Edition 2008.

He said in interview with the Rochester Post-Bulletin that he has gotten a higher score playing at home. He also said he used to play four to five hours a day, but not so much anymore because it's not as challenging.

PAUL WALSH