Review: Guitar Hero Metallica

A screenshot from Guitar Hero Metallica.

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Just a few years ago, bands such as Metallica didn't want anything to do with video games, but with the enormous success of SingStar, Rock Band, Guitar Hero and the like, bands are now desperate to get a piece of the action. Even the Beatles have joined in the fun.

It's obviously smart business. Not only can bands resell their back catalogue to fans, there is also the chance to win over a new generation of iPod owners.

Like last year's Guitar Hero World Tour, Metallica lets players bang away on drums, wail into a microphone, slap a bass or strum away on lead guitar.

The 28 Metallica tunes span the band's career, and are complemented by 21 other artists selected by the supergroup, including Queen, Foo Fighters, Motorhead, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Alice in Chains.

The head-banging black T-shirt brigade will not be disappointed with the track list. There are many riotous and lengthy anthems that represent a serious challenge even for experienced guitar heroes, and few lazy fillers that don't deserve inclusion.

The career mode starts with a bang, re-creating a modern Metallica concert. Once a few songs and the on-stage fireworks are over, a simple story is introduced, with the player guiding a group of heavy-metal wannabes who are inspired by the act that has sold more than 100million albums.

Progression is easier and quicker than previous Guitar Hero games, as new songs and venues are unlocked once you earn a certain number of stars, thus better rewarding skilful players.

Fans are also treated to replays of each Metallica song, complete with trivia pop-ups and lyrics, as well as commentary, videos and behind-the-scenes footage.

In addition to the solo career mode, players can choose to jam with mates, near and far. A four-versus-four "battle of the bands" offers particularly intense competition.