Metal: Hellsinger delivers a unique blend of rhythm and first-person shooter gameplay, creating a thrilling, albeit somewhat repetitive, experience. From its hellish opening to its epic conclusion, this game offers a captivating journey unlike any other. While fans of DOOM-style FPS and rhythm games will find familiar elements, the innovative fusion of these genres sets Metal: Hellsinger apart.
A Symphony of Destruction
Even for someone unfamiliar with both fast-paced FPS and rhythm games, Metal: Hellsinger’s core rhythmic gameplay is surprisingly accessible. Firing weapons and dashing to the beat quickly becomes second nature, creating a fluid and satisfying flow of action. The game’s arsenal includes classic shooter staples like shotguns, dual pistols, and more specialized weapons. However, the rhythmic requirement for reloads and ultimates adds a strategic layer to weapon mastery. Managing ultimate gauges and selecting the appropriate weapon for each encounter becomes crucial for survival.
Mastering the Beat
Metal: Hellsinger cleverly layers its mechanics, allowing players to focus on different aspects at their own pace. Reaching the 16x multiplier, which triggers the powerful vocals, is achievable even without perfect dashes or memorized combos. This encourages experimentation and gradual mastery of the combat system. Furthermore, various difficulty options and helpful boons provide accessibility for newcomers to the genre.
The Repetition of Hell
Despite the initial excitement, the repetitive nature of Metal: Hellsinger’s levels becomes evident after multiple playthroughs. Fixed enemy spawns and attack patterns transform the pursuit of high scores into a test of memorization and efficient movement. While this focus on optimization can appeal to some players, it ultimately detracts from the game’s initial charm and uniqueness.
A Chorus of Metal Legends
While Metal: Hellsinger isn’t the first game to blend FPS and rhythm elements (BPM: Bullets Per Minute precedes it), it distinguishes itself with a stellar soundtrack featuring renowned metal artists like Serj Tankian and Alissa White-Gluz. These powerful vocals, synchronized with the on-screen action, create an immersive and exhilarating experience that sets it apart.
Minor Imperfections in Paradise Lost
Occasional frame rate drops and the inherent repetitiveness can slightly mar the overall experience. However, these minor issues don’t significantly detract from the quality of The Outsiders’ creation. While other games may try to emulate Metal: Hellsinger’s genre-blending formula, its unique execution sets a high bar.
Final Verdict
Metal: Hellsinger offers a fresh and exciting take on the FPS genre. Its rhythmic combat, combined with a killer soundtrack, creates a truly memorable experience. While the repetitive nature of the gameplay might deter some players seeking long-term engagement, the initial playthrough provides a satisfyingly brutal and harmonious journey through hell.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Metal: Hellsinger is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. This review was conducted based on a PC code provided by the publisher.
