The hardest thing about reviewing Brutal Legend is refraining from using the word ‘AWESOME’ in every sentence, because this game really is just that, awesome. As awesome as it is, it does have some crippling problems, so bad that if this was any other game I would have long ago given up and tossed into the trade pile. Let us start with the positives, of which there are many.
Brutal Legend follows the story of the worlds best roadie, Eddie Riggs, who is voiced brilliantly by Jack Black. Eddie is a roadie for the pitiful nu-metal band Kabbage Boy, during one of their gigs he is killed in the process of saving one of the band members. Blood trickles down onto his belt buckle and the fire beast Ormagöden comes alive on stage, transporting Eddie to his world. The world itself is one of the best I have seen in gaming. Filled with wonderfully imagined scenery and metal puns galore makes it a joy to explore. The first level you find yourself in is a heavy metal inspired land, with gargantuan swords jutting out of the earth, trees spouting metal barbs, massive pieces of engines and walls of amps.
The rest of the island is equally as impressive – from Amazonian forests through snow filled valleys, eerie Goth landscapes and morbid castles – and thanks to the open world gameplay it is great fun to explore. Exploration is very important if you want to get the full enjoyment out of the game. With so many different collectibles, unlocking everything from songs to stat upgrades, you really are going to be kept busy. Exploring is made easy by summoning Eddie’s wheels, the Druid Plow, or Deuce to friends. Although a little chaotic to handle it is great fun to drive, especially when you hit the nitro and go flying off a cliff. To unlock these new lands you have to work your way through the story.
