Brutal Legend review (PS3, Xbox 360) By Sayed Islam Published: 12/25/09 PrintEmail
With such marketing invested into Brutal Legend, it comes as no surprise there would be some sort of hype surrounding the game. It is easy to cheer for Tim Shafer, and it makes players ponder what he has been working on all this time. This is undoubtedly where Brutal Legend enters the equation. The storyline revolves around the main protagonist known as Eddie Riggs. Mr. Riggs manages to land in an esoteric environment that is imbued with a plethora of unholy and adversarial creatures. As the story progresses, he meets various characters that will help him along his quest to quell the nefarious monstrosities. The tale might not be the most original masterpiece ever constructed, yet the characters are likeable and will make you chuckle more than a few times.
The gameplay cannot be defined into simply just one genre. Instead, it boils down into two predominant genres: action/adventure and real time strategy. From the optional missions to the main storyline campaign, there are plenty of things to appreciate in Brutal Legend. The central focal point of the multiplayer is the real time strategy aspect of the game. You can partake in three organizations, and there is even a versus mode that enables other players to compete against each other. If nothing about playing against the other individuals interests you, then there is a rudimentary skirmish mode. Furthermore, the real time strategy moments also play a role in the certain sections of the single player campaign. Riggs has some unique weapons at his disposal. There is the brutal axe (no pun intended), and the trusty guitar. Yes, this guitar can literally melt faces if used correctly. In addition, there are some vehicle portions and cooperative parts where you have to work cohesively with your partner.
The visuals are really animated. Environments are vibrant, and the foes are imposing.
In regards to the audio, the prevalent theme here is the metal and rock music. The musical tracks are very intriguing, and Jack Black’s portrayal of Eddie Riggs is absolutely flawless. Riggs is facetious, witty, and charming (to a certain extent). Nevertheless, it is not all about Jack Black. But Black does seem to take over the game, as he should because he is the lead main character. Voice acting in general is strong, and the fact they converse with you during combat is insightful.
Overall, Brutal Legend is a game that any fan of metal or Jack Black will enjoy. If you loved Jack Black in School of Rock, then you will admire Brutal Legend.
Art direction 9 The visuals are really animated. Environments are vibrant, and the foes are imposing. Audio 9 In regards to the audio, the prevalent theme here is the metal and rock music. The musical tracks are very intriguing, and Jack Black’s portrayal of Eddie Riggs is absolutely flawless. Riggs is facetious, witty, and charming (to a certain extent). Nevertheless, it is not all about Jack Black. But Black does seem to take over the game, as he should because he is the lead main character. Voice acting in general is strong, and the fact they converse with you during combat is insightful. Gameplay 8 The gameplay cannot be defined into simply just one genre. Instead, it boils down into two predominant genres: action/adventure and real time strategy. Replay value 9.5 Solid multiplayer and fun single player. Presentation 8 The tale might not be the most original masterpiece ever constructed, yet the characters are likeable and will make you chuckle more than a few times. Final verdict 8.5 out of 10
With such marketing invested into Brutal Legend, it comes as no surprise there would be some sort of hype surrounding the game. It is easy to cheer for Tim Shafer, and it makes players ponder what he has been working on all this time. This is undoubtedly where Brutal Legend enters the equation. The storyline revolves around the main protagonist known as Eddie Riggs. Mr. Riggs manages to land in an esoteric environment that is imbued with a plethora of unholy and adversarial creatures. As the story progresses, he meets various characters that will help him along his quest to quell the nefarious monstrosities. The tale might not be the most original masterpiece ever constructed, yet the characters are likeable and will make you chuckle more than a few times. 
