EA teams up with Harmonix for Rock Band

Electronic Arts has signed a deal with MTV and Harmonix, the developer behind Guitar Hero, to produce a new game titled Rock Band.

According to USA Today, the game will mix rhythm action gameplay with karaoke, and is due for a release on PS3 and Xbox 360 this Christmas.

Rock Band will work with four instrument-based controllers - lead and bass guitars, a drum kit and microphone. Online features will include the option to form bands with gamers in other countries.

Players will also be able to buy songs online, and tracks used in the game will be performed by the original artists rather than cover bands.

An official announcement is expected from EA later this morning.