Guitar Hero: Metallica cover art

Game dossier

Guitar Hero: Metallica

Available now

A Metallica-focused rhythm game with band career modes and Expert+ drumming

The briefing

About this game

Guitar Hero: Metallica is a music game centered on Metallica and the band-focused follow-up to Guitar Hero: Aerosmith. It builds on features introduced in Guitar Hero: World Tour, including single-player and multiplayer band career modes presented through a cartoon storyline.

Players can perform with guitar, bass, drums, or vocals, while online competitive modes provide additional challenges. The story follows a band seeking to follow in Metallica’s footsteps and become a leading act on tour.

The game introduces an Expert+ drum difficulty that requires a second bass pedal to emulate Lars Ulrich’s playing style. Metallica’s members also contributed motion-capture performances for their in-game avatars.

  • Release date: March 29, 2009
  • Developer: Budcat Creations
  • Publisher: Activision
  • Platforms: Nintendo Wii, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, Wii, and Xbox 360