Metallica is set to play a virtual concert in Fortnite for the game’s Rock Band-esque Festival mode, the video game’s developer Epic Games announced on Wednesday.
The band’s concert — called “Metallica: Fuel. Fire. Fury.” — will have the group performing six songs in the game, Epic said, with the shows set for June 22 and June 23. Fans will have six total chances to watch the show, at 2 p.m., 5 p.m. and 11 p.m. on Saturday, and at 10 a.m., 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. on Sunday.
Metallica joins The Weeknd, Lady Gaga and Billie Eilish, who previously served as the featured artist on Fortnite Festival since the game launched at the end of 2023. Festival — developed by the company behind the Guitar Hero and Rock Band games, is Fortnite’s deepest push in the music world so far. When Metallica’s collaboration with Fortnite launches, several of the band’s songs including “Enter Sandman,” “Master of Puppets,” and “Ride The Lightning” will become playable in the game.
Beyond the concert, as part of Season 4, Fortnite players will be able to participate in Metallica-themed quests and nab band-themed collectibles including outfits. With Metallica’s appearance, Festival is also introducing a new game mode called Battle Mode that will remain after season 4 is done.
Prior to Festival’s launch, the game hosted many virtual concerts for popular recording artists over the past several years, starting with the likes of Marshmello and Travis Scott in 2019 and 2020. Scott’s viral show in particular helped popularize video game concerts and gave way for Fortnite concerts from artists including Ariana Grande, J Balvin, and Kaskade among others.
From Rolling Stone US
