Memories of vibrantly painted album covers filled with hot babes, burly heroes and demonic foes come to life in Electronic Arts' Brutal Legend. Fans of heavy metal in its many forms can rejoice at a game featuring their favorite songs - and they don't have to worry about looking like a fool strumming a plastic instrument.

Brutal Legend is an all-out action game that tells the story of the world's greatest rock 'n' roll roadie, Eddie Riggs. Following his apparent death during a concert, Eddie awakens in a world that resembles the cover art from heavy metal records of the '70s and '80s.

Bringing this surreal world to life are demonic priests, goth freaks and some hardworking headbangers who are enslaved by the forces of fictional '80s hair band General Lionwhyte and demonic master Doviculus. Ultimately, the roadie embarks on a crusade to free the enslaved metal fans from their evil oppressors.

Brutal Legend stars comedian Jack Black as the title character, and features guest roles from heavy metal royalty like Ozzy Osbourne, Rob Halford and Lita Ford.

Black's performance is surprisingly understated - Eddie exhibits some elements of over-the-top Black, but it really feels like the actor stays in the role instead of parodying himself.

The gameplay begins with pretty standard action fare, as Eddie learns to wield his two axes (one is swung to eviscerate enemies, the other is Clementine, his favorite Flying V guitar). But the game quickly becomes something quite different - a strategy game placing players in control of an army of special units during "stage battles."

Brutal Legend is about a mythical land of heavy metal, so it's no surprise the soundtrack features a large selection of licensed music from bands spanning rock and metal.

The music is part of the attraction, and it complements the game's explorative nature in between stage fights. Players can roam the game world attempting side missions and unlocking new songs and upgrades.

There's also a multiplayer mode, with online fights between the three factions revealed in the game's story.

Players who love the heavy metal era will find a lot to like here. Brutal Legend is a fun title offering a different mix of action and strategy, but the top-notch story and acting make it well worth the time and money.