While not doing a great deal to advance the series, where Guitar Hero: Metallica does attempt to make progress is in its difficulty. Guitar Hero III was decried as being too unfairly difficult (something that was largely rectified with Guitar Hero: Aerosmith and World Tour), and Metallica looks to address the balance further, with Neversoft pitching a challenge to the hardcore fans with the introduction of a new ‘Expert +’ mode. Though this may seem like a strange move (especially in light of previous criticisms), there is some logic in attempting to raise the game’s challenge to meet the demands of a no-doubt increasingly capable fanbase. Sensibly, the game’s lower difficulty levels remain approachable enough for more casual gamers to enjoy rocking with the band. But for the more capable faux-musicians amongst us, Metallica certainly does a good job of throwing down the gauntlet, and is ultimately hugely rewarding for it. Think you’re a decent drummer? Here’s your opportunity to prove it.

Neversoft has also expanded the experience in other ways, with the game now supporting dual-drum pedals. How readily this feature will be used is hard to say, but it’s an addition that should be applauded nonetheless. Also welcome is a new ‘Drum Over’ mode that allows you to play along to the set list without the threat of failure looming, or indeed any notes to follow. Again, while not a massive advancement, it’s a small step forward, moving the series closer to real world musicianship.

Sadly, Guitar Hero: Metallica discards the rockumentary-stylings of its Aerosmith-themed predecessor, a format that did an excellent job of paying tribute to and documenting the band. In its place we’re left with the fairly flimsy ’story’ (told through the usual animations) of a Metallica tribute band attempting to earn a support slot with their heroes. While wonderfully presented, these interludes struggle to hold your attention or successfully contextualise the concerts that follow. A collection of clips of the band playing are unlocked as you play, but in reverting to an ageing formula feels like a missed opportunity – this is more Saturday morning cartoon than VH1 documentary.

When all is said and done (or should that be rock ‘n’ rolled?), Guitar Hero: Metallica is what it is. As a showcase for the band’s music, it works wonderfully; as an exploration of the band itself it’s less successful. In either case, it will no doubt be lapped up by fans, and is most definitely a welcome addition to the Guitar Hero family. The biggest drawback is its price: £40 seems quite pricey for 49 songs (of which 28 are by Metallica), a number that pales in comparison somewhat to the 86 present on World Tour. Still, the fact remains that spending some time on stage with a virtual-Metallica can be a hugely invigorating experience, and fans of the band, or heavy metal in general, will quickly find their hands forming that most recognisable of gestures – the devil horns. And that’s clearly a sign of success.

Pages: 1 2

Have you downloaded the latest issue from GamerZines yet? Check it out here!