Eddie Riggs and the world of heavy metal
Brütal Legend is an action-adventure set in a universe somewhere between Lord of the Rings and Spinal Tap, full of imitation cover bands, demons intent on enslaving humanity, and heavy metal tunes. You play as Eddie Riggs, a super roadie played by Jack Black, who carries a double-sided broadaxe and a demon-slaying, pyrotechnic-creating guitar. The world is built from chrome, leather, mountains made of guitar amps, fire-breathing beasts, and art inspired by classic metal album covers. The story follows Eddie on a tour of epic destruction as he commands the power of rock. The voice cast includes cameos from metal figures such as Lemmy Kilmister, Rob Halford, and Lita Ford.
Fighting and commanding armies
Combat mixes classic action slasher play with real-time strategy mechanics. You fight in melee with the broadaxe and at range with the guitar, then use guitar solos to summon objects, buff your teammates, or cripple opponents. Beyond the one-on-one fighting, you journey from Roadie to Rock God by commanding legions of metalheads into battle and sending troops charging forward. The open world lets you walk, drive, or fly anywhere, so you can move between fights and exploration without loading screens.
Playing together online
The multiplayer is a 4v4 skirmish mode that combines action combat with strategic unit control. You lead one of the game's factions in a Battle of the Bands where the trophy is survival, directing your armies while fighting yourself. Play is online-enabled, so you can take on friends over a broadband connection. The PC version also includes the Hammer of Infinite Fate and Tears of the Hextadon multiplayer map packs.
Before you start
The soundtrack is a big part of the experience: 108 tracks from 75 bands covering every sub-genre of metal, from 1970s classic metal through 1980s hair metal to 1990s metal. Expect a game that leans into comedy and metal culture alongside its combat and strategy layers. Online multiplayer requires a broadband connection.