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Brutal Legend demo impressions thread

kafka rock opera said:
I was speaking in general and not just this game.
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Ah, I understand. GAF is better than most forums by a country mile in this regard, but even so, as you say there are threads I wouldn't want to go into.

Usually the threads about the most popular/ most hyped games are the ones that get the most irrational conflict/trolling. By staying out of them, I avoid most of it.
 
Finally played the demo yesterday. I was playing with a friend who prior to playing the demo himself was skeptical of Brutal Legend but was sold after playing it.

Demo was awesome. I already pre-ordered it weeks ago so Day 1 baby :D
 
Unpolished but fun. Choppy animations hurt, but the presentation is simply superb. Combat, while simple, is very satisfying, and the humor is top notch.

Day 1 for me.
 
Unfortunately i am having the same problem as some people here. The humor is fantastic (cant remember the last time i laughed so hard with a game) and the role is made for black he is also very good but something is wrong with the gameplay and the game doesnt click for me. Its overly simple perhaps. Its too bad because i would like to see the story. Maybe ill pick it up when it goes down in price.
 
What a wonderful concept and the characters are GREAT! The wife only listened while i was playing the demo and thought that I watched a movie. Even if I won't have time to play the full game, I'll buy it just to honor the concept and execution.
 
Finally got around to playing the demo. I thought it was pretty awesome, but I don't think that I'll end up buying it over something like, say, Uncharted 2.

I'll definitely get around to buying it at some point though. Just not right off the bat.
 
Vlodril said:
Unfortunately i am having the same problem as some people here. The humor is fantastic (cant remember the last time i laughed so hard with a game) and the role is made for black he is also very good but something is wrong with the gameplay and the game doesnt click for me. Its overly simple perhaps. Its too bad because i would like to see the story. Maybe ill pick it up when it goes down in price.
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I don't think it's the simplicity of the mechanics turning you off. Personally I'm inclined to believe it has more to do with the complete lack of collision detection, clunky control scheme, awful animation and a complete lack of any sense of physicality, something I regard as a must in modern action/adventure games. In fact, forget current gen, there are PS2 games that do a better job.

Even when it approaches a more modern take on game design, such as doing the A+X (or Square+Cross if you like) move to literally bring down the house, it just doesn't have the impact it should. Now whether that's due to the camera or the lack of any kind of connection to the space the character inhabits I can't say. What I will say is this, Tools of Destruction is a game which was often criticised for not moving with the times, yet it feels a thousand times more contemporary than this game. Sure, it's nowhere near as funny as BL, but go play the ToD demo and compare it to this. It's like night and day.

Maybe the defence force think I and others are being overly harsh, but I honestly haven't been as disappointed by a game this gen as I was going from the opening cutscene of Brutal Legend to the actual game. It's an absolute waste of such an amazing concept.
 
I loved it, if this ever comes to PC: Day. 1.

Great characterization, cool environments, cool (but simple) combat. I laughed, a lot. Tim Schafer knows timing and dialog like few others in the industry.
 
freethought said:
Maybe the defence force think I and others are being overly harsh, but I honestly haven't been as disappointed by a game this gen as I was going from the opening cutscene of Brutal Legend to the actual game. It's an absolute waste of such an amazing concept.
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I think the big problem, with games like Brutal Legend and No More Heroes and the like, is that it's so polarizing.
There are people who love the whole package and can easily look past any shortcomings that are presented.
While others focus on the negatives which they feel bring down the entire game.
Now, if the gameplay here was completely broken, we wouldn't even be having this conversation, but since it works, and is even enjoyable (though simplistic), it seems fine for many people.
 
freethought said:
Maybe the defence force think I and others are being overly harsh, but I honestly haven't been as disappointed by a game this gen as I was going from the opening cutscene of Brutal Legend to the actual game. It's an absolute waste of such an amazing concept.
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This is really a big thing for me, the disconnect from the cutscenes to the actual game.

Some games that I've played, like MGS4, have these awesome cutscenes in which everyone does all these crazy martial arts and commando moves. And then the actual gameplay is a shoddy third person shooter with brain dead AI. It was hilarious seeing all of the enemies, from the elite PMC soldiers to the bosses doing all of these things in cutscenes and then just shooting clip after clip into them when they stand there motionless in gameplay.

The cutscenes have to be consistent with the gameplay for me to think of it as a competent game and not just an impressive collection of cutscenes.
 
Yes. As it is i would get this game to watch its story. I would have to bypass the fact that i dont like the gameplay much. But this IS a game. not a movie. So.. anyway maybe the first area is one of the worst in game perhaps. ill wait for impressions before i decide.
 
I have been mildly interested in this title for awhile... but that demo SOLD IT!
 
Vlodril said:
Yes. As it is i would get this game to watch its story. I would have to bypass the fact that i dont like the gameplay much. But this IS a game. not a movie. So.. anyway maybe the first area is one of the worst in game perhaps. ill wait for impressions before i decide.
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Personally I'd watch the cutscenes on youtube, only on youtube the video/audio quality sucks. Much better on the big screen with surround sound.

So rental for me, to see the cutscenes.
 
loved the demo, wasnt on my radar, now it is, etc etc

dont really get the criticisms about the gameplay. watching the opening cinema - and looking at the characters and art style - i didnt expect uncharted-like animations or ninja gaiden-like combat when the gameplay took over. i thought the simple approach to the controls and combat suited the game well.
 
Played the demo on both 360 and PS3. Amazing on both. Flame suit on, but just to point out for those who care:

- Aliasing was noticeable on PS3.

- The sound on the PS3 seemed to have less "umph", especially when the metallic beast appeared.

- There's noticeable screen tearing at the very top of the screen for the PS3.

- There were frame rate hiccups on the PS3, most noticeable during the driving sequences.

- Could just be my setup, so best to run the comparison for yourself if it's a concern.

Nonetheless, this is a great pick up regardless of console.
 
I didn't want to derail the official thread, so I am posting here.

Man, this game (err...demo ) is fucking awful. Yet another game I knew was going to be shit and IS shit. Sure, it was a demo and (hopefully) an old, unfinished build of the game. The only good thing about it was that Jack Black wasn't as annoying as I thought he was going to be. The opening cinematic as actually pretty funny.

But the game play was a joke. Just another overly simplified button masher, beat 'em up. Though I know nothing about rock or metal, I like the art direction and over all motif. However, graphically, it's pretty average. Nothing really blew me away, then again, it COULD be an old build.

I fail to see why GAF or anyone thinks this is "amazing". Prett shitty if you ask me. I was going to pass, but now I know for a fact that I will never purchase this game. In short, its a great concept, but god awful execution. Maybe next time Tim...
 
-PXG- said:
I didn't want to derail the official thread, so I am posting here.

Man, this game (err...demo ) is fucking awful. Yet another game I knew was going to be shit and IS shit. Sure, it was a demo and (hopefully) an old, unfinished build of the game. The only good thing about it was that Jack Black wasn't as annoying as I thought he was going to be. The opening cinematic as actually pretty funny.

But the game play was a joke. Just another overly simplified button masher, beat 'em up. Though I know nothing about rock or metal, I like the art direction and over all motif. However, graphically, it's pretty average. Nothing really blew me away, then again, it COULD be an old build.

I fail to see why GAF or anyone thinks this is "amazing". Prett shitty if you ask me. I was going to pass, but now I know for a fact that I will never purchase this game. In short, its a great concept, but god awful execution. Maybe next time Tim...
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So, you went into a game knowing you were going to hate it, and came out hating it.
What a surprise.
 
AceBandage said:
So, you went into a game knowing you were going to hate it, and came out hating it.
What a surprise.
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There are games I went in hating, but ended up loving. Uncharted, Rock Band, Disgaea, Bioshock just to name a few.

What a surprise :P
 
-PXG- said:
There are games I went in hating, but ended up loving. Uncharted, Rock Band, Disgaea, Bioshock just to name a few.

What a surprise :P
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The exception, not the rule.
Generally, when you go into something, already hating it, you're going to come out with the same opinion.
 
-PXG- said:
I didn't want to derail the official thread, so I am posting here.

"Man, this game (err...demo ) is fucking awful. Yet another game I knew was going to be shit and IS shit."

"I fail to see why GAF or anyone thinks this is "amazing". Prett shitty if you ask me. I was going to pass, but now I know for a fact that I will never purchase this game. In short, its a great concept, but god awful execution. Maybe next time Tim..."
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See but your being a ass and trying to question people that actually ENJOY and LIKE the demo. Basically puffing your internet chest and putting down anyone that does find this enjoyable. There is nothing wrong if YOU think the demo is bad, but OTHERS, and plenty of people by the looks of it, LIKE it.
 
-PXG- said:
I didn't want to derail the official thread, so I am posting here.

Man, this game (err...demo ) is fucking awful. Yet another game I knew was going to be shit and IS shit. Sure, it was a demo and (hopefully) an old, unfinished build of the game. The only good thing about it was that Jack Black wasn't as annoying as I thought he was going to be. The opening cinematic as actually pretty funny.

But the game play was a joke. Just another overly simplified button masher, beat 'em up. Though I know nothing about rock or metal, I like the art direction and over all motif. However, graphically, it's pretty average. Nothing really blew me away, then again, it COULD be an old build.

I fail to see why GAF or anyone thinks this is "amazing". Prett shitty if you ask me. I was going to pass, but now I know for a fact that I will never purchase this game. In short, its a great concept, but god awful execution. Maybe next time Tim...
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Lol.. you're one weird dude. Why would you go into something already hating it. How can you hate any creative idea that people made with love into something that alot of people are going to enjoy?

Get the fuck outta here man.. that's some bullshit right there.
 
AceBandage said:
The exception, not the rule.
Generally, when you go into something, already hating it, you're going to come out with the same opinion.
Click to expand...

Self-fulfilling prophecy, yeah.

Personally I try to keep my expectations positive but realistic about any game I am looking forward to. Except some I expect to be perfection incarnate, like COD4 when it came out, and MW2 again this year. I expected COD4 to exceed my expectations and it did...though that sounds like a paradox:lol
 
AceBandage said:
The exception, not the rule.
Generally, when you go into something, already hating it, you're going to come out with the same opinion.
Click to expand...

Yeah. Exactly. I guess I am an exception, since I don't necessary follow that rule :P

With more fluid animation, a more robust move set (sure, it IS the beginning of the game and only a demo), better sound, and overall, more polish, perhaps I would like it more.

Again, I love the concept. The idea and the art direction are fantastic. It's the game play and how the game moves is what I dislike.

EDIT

Guess having a dissenting opinion isn't allowed. If I'm not willing to board the hype train, I might was well GTFO :lol I wanted to post here (since this is the demo impression thread) and not shit up the official thread.

I love how you guys misconstrued my "I fail to see why" statement. I'm implying, that perhaps, I am the one who is wrong, yet, you ignore that and still proceed with your "witch hunt" mentality. I'm not putting my opinon on a pedestal or going about with a high and mighty attitude. All I am saying is this:

I think the game sucks, but the idea behind is cool. Maybe with a few tweaks here and there it could be good.

Yet for some reason, ya'll are up in arms because someone doesn't follow suit. GAF's hive mind hard at work yet again...
 
you post this:
-PXG- said:
I didn't want to derail the official thread, so I am posting here.

Man, this game (err...demo ) is fucking awful.

I fail to see why GAF or anyone thinks this is "amazing". Prett shitty if you ask me. I was going to pass, but now I know for a fact that I will never purchase this game. In short, its a great concept, but god awful execution. Maybe next time Tim...
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and then have the cheek to post this?
-PXG- said:
Guess having a dissenting opinion isn't allowed.
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if you can't put two and two together and work out why people are screaming four at you, then good luck.
 
-PXG- said:
I love how you guys misconstrued my "I fail to see why" statement. I'm implying, that perhaps, I am the one who is wrong, yet, you ignore that and still proceed with your "witch hunt" mentality. I'm not putting my opinon on a pedestal or going about with a high and mighty attitude. All I am saying is this:

I think the game sucks, but the idea behind is cool. Maybe with a few tweaks here and there it could be good.

Yet for some reason, ya'll are up in arms because someone doesn't follow suit. GAF's hive mind hard at work yet again...
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Honestly you just came off very standoffish. If you had come in here saying what you are now from the start, it wouldn't be so bad. Really, what your saying now sounds much more level headed with someone who had issues with the demo.
 
I loved the intro, very entertaining.

While the combat was simple to the point of being dull there was always something entertaining going on. The soundtrack is great and that's coming from a guy who had no interest in metal. You can tell there is a lot of love put into this product. I can respect that.

Just a guess but I don't think this title was directed at core gamers. It looks like it's going to be a lavish metal package with simple gameplay at its heart so that metal-loving casuals can enjoy.

Here's hoping it reviews well and sells the same. Games like this are good for the industry. That Activision tried to cock-block it would make a happy ending even sweeter.
 
DailyVacation said:
Played the demo on both 360 and PS3. Amazing on both. Flame suit on, but just to point out for those who care:

- Aliasing was noticeable on PS3.
- The sound on the PS3 seemed to have less "umph", especially when the metallic beast appeared.
- There's noticeable screen tearing at the very top of the screen for the PS3.
- There were frame rate hiccups on the PS3, most noticeable during the driving sequences.

Nonetheless, this is a great pick up regardless of console.
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I just tried the PS3 demo and noticed all the mentioned issues as well. But I think the PS3 demo's sound was noted as being borked for the demo only.

I thought it was pretty fun. Will probably pick it up for 360 if I get find a lull in the next little while.
 
outunderthestars said:
it wasn't fun to me. I don't like the theme, the art style, the way the game handles, the camera, and the general lack of polish.
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Lack of polish in what regard?
 
I like the character designs, voice acting, humor, premise and presentation. The gameplay itself was just okay borderlining meh, IMHO. Maybe for 20-30, but not day one.
 
I'm shocked, SHOCKED I say! at the amount of hate for the demo. I guess any game that's had a lot of media attention is bound to attract a large amount of detractors come demo-time, but this is absurd. This is an obviously good game to me. It might not have the deepest gameplay, even compared to other games in its genre (based on the demo), but since when is that a bad thing? Was Psychonauts deep? Hell no, it was a brilliant game with amazing designs, story, dialogues, characters, atmosphere and it had originality coming out of every orifice. Yet, in the end it was still a platform game with merely decent controls. Did that detract from the game at all? Well, a bit obviously, but not as much as it should have because the rest of the game is head and shoulders above the rest.

Now, Psychonauts wasn't a great success commercially and didn't get much attention outside the hardcore gaming community, which is why that particular group of people had nothing bad to say about the game. If Brütal Legend was released then and Psychonauts now, I'm sure people would be dismissing Psychonauts as they are BL now.

You can dislike the game if you want to, I certainly don't pretend to like a lot of the games GAF seems to idolize, but it seems to me that people are really overanalyzing the demo in a way that's just not fair.
 
My impression is one of the scripting and narrative, the main character only ever talks out loud. He's saying what he thinks, it's unnatural. I really would have liked him to talk directly to the player, the game "Knows" it's a game so it's easy to accept breaking the 4th wall. You're not watching a conversation for the most part so all the speach is for the player benifit, the game accepts a player IS there.
 
Ok guys, quick question, about to preorder this on amazon.co.uk (same price).

PS3 or 360 version?

I don't have Xbox Live Gold (lol paying for online), BUT MP isn't a big draw for me anyway... still, having the option would be nice, I guess.


Basically, is the PS3 version up to snuff?
 
finally downloaded and played the demo and i have to say that even so i liked it i wished it was a little bit longer to be able to command some of your headbanger dudes. the presentation is good and the dialogues are great. the gameplay is not exactly bad but also not great. i hope they have fixed some of the issues i encountered while playing, for example some enemies don't even seem to recognize you until you stand in front of them and start slashing them.
if i can afford it after spending too much money on games last week i am going to get it just for the humor alone.
 
dreamcastmaster said:
My impression is one of the scripting and narrative, the main character only ever talks out loud. He's saying what he thinks, it's unnatural. I really would have liked him to talk directly to the player, the game "Knows" it's a game so it's easy to accept breaking the 4th wall. You're not watching a conversation for the most part so all the speach is for the player benifit, the game accepts a player IS there.
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You never talk to yourself out loud? Shit I would if I was in Eddie's situation :lol .

HOLY FUCK GIANT FUCKING DEMON COMING AT ME TIME TO RUN.
 
eXistor said:
You can dislike the game if you want to, I certainly don't pretend to like a lot of the games GAF seems to idolize, but it seems to me that people are really overanalyzing the demo in a way that's just not fair.
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I suspect it's more of a disappointment that a game which seemed so close to being fantastic falls over on gameplay.
Everything else is there - easily quantifiable by previews and videos, we know the sound will be cool, the voice acting fun, the dialogue humourous etc. But then the demo comes out and it chokes :/
 
Finally got around to downloading the demo. Day one purchase for me. It's not perfect, but I love the overall theme and style.

Oh, and the Druid Plow. :lol
 
I don't really like heavy metal and the combat system wasnt that good, so i will probably wait until its cheap. I love Shafer though so if the reviews are great i'll buy right away.
 
Haunted said:
Ok guys, quick question, about to preorder this on amazon.co.uk (same price).

PS3 or 360 version?

I don't have Xbox Live Gold (lol paying for online), BUT MP isn't a big draw for me anyway... still, having the option would be nice, I guess.


Basically, is the PS3 version up to snuff?
Click to expand...
the 360 version performs better, and I think it has 'more' antialiasing. if you insist on the PS3 version, it performs fine as well, just not quite as well.
 
freethought said:
I don't think it's the simplicity of the mechanics turning you off. Personally I'm inclined to believe it has more to do with the complete lack of collision detection, clunky control scheme, awful animation and a complete lack of any sense of physicality, something I regard as a must in modern action/adventure games. In fact, forget current gen, there are PS2 games that do a better job.

Even when it approaches a more modern take on game design, such as doing the A+X (or Square+Cross if you like) move to literally bring down the house, it just doesn't have the impact it should. Now whether that's due to the camera or the lack of any kind of connection to the space the character inhabits I can't say. What I will say is this, Tools of Destruction is a game which was often criticised for not moving with the times, yet it feels a thousand times more contemporary than this game. Sure, it's nowhere near as funny as BL, but go play the ToD demo and compare it to this. It's like night and day.

Maybe the defence force think I and others are being overly harsh, but I honestly haven't been as disappointed by a game this gen as I was going from the opening cutscene of Brutal Legend to the actual game. It's an absolute waste of such an amazing concept.
Click to expand...

The issues don't bother me as much as you, but I do agree with much of what you've said. I'm still hopeful that the combat mechanics will become more diverse and rewarding as the game progresses (though the animation will still be troublesome) because I find the atmosphere and humor so appealing. My friends all feel the same way - fun, appealing concept; dated, stiff gameplay. Yes, it's just a demo, but even the basic character movements feel "off."

It's really unfortunate (and confusing) that the facial animation and lip sync are well done for the most part, but the in-game character animations are so robotic and largely unappealing.
 
Rez said:
the 360 version performs better, and I think it has 'more' antialiasing. if you insist on the PS3 version, it performs fine as well, just not quite as well.
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Bu-bu-but the Ps3 version has burning meteorites falling out of the sky in a cutscene!!1
 
Rez said:
the 360 version performs better, and I think it has 'more' antialiasing. if you insist on the PS3 version, it performs fine as well, just not quite as well.
Click to expand...
Hm.

I shall wait until the 360 demo is available for Silver peasants like me before preordering, then.
 
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