Iron Maiden mobile game Legacy Of The Beast is an RPG for iOS and Android

Iron Maiden Legacy of the Beast — Artwork for Legacy Of The Beast Iron Maiden

A mobile game based on the work and "universe" of legendary British metal band Iron Maiden has been announced for release this summer on Android and iOS. Legacy Of The Beast will be an "action-packed, free-to-play RPG steeped in Iron Maiden mythology".

The game will utilise tracks from the band's extensive back catalogue and is being developed by Vancouver-based studio Roadhouse Interactive and 40cc Games. There will be exploration, time travel and numerous characters from Maiden's world of album covers and art.

Players will assume the role of band mascot Eddie the Head. A synopsis on the game's website says: "A mysterious force has shattered Eddie's soul and scattered the shards. Travel through time and space collecting the pieces as you encounter a cast of dramatic and engaging characters."

Roadhouse CEO James Hursthouse said in a statement: "As a lifelong fan, I have always thought that Maiden's music, lyrics and cast of characters would provide the perfect basis for a deep RPG experience. With this game, we're creating an outstanding RPG that will appeal to all mobile gamers, including those discovering Maiden for the first time."

No details were given regarding the free-to-play nature of the game and how that might impact gameplay.

Maiden founding member and bassist Steve Harris is overseeing the project. "We always thought Maiden's music and imagery with Eddie could be perfect for gaming and it's something we have been looking at doing again since Ed Hunter in 1999," he said. "Now in 2016, it can all be done on a smartphone which makes it even more accessible for all our fans and also all the gamers out there."

The band's 16th album, The Book Of Souls, was released on 4 September 2015. In February, the band embark on a world tour, with dates in Europe, North America, South America, Asia (including China for the first time), Australasia and Africa. So quite literally a world tour then.

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