If you prefer your role-playing games with a heavy dose of guitar riffs and chaotic humor rather than traditional swords and sorcery, Deathbulge: Battle of the Bands might be your next obsession. Following a successful run on PC that earned a very positive rating on Steam, the title officially launches on consoles today.
- Developer/Publisher: Deathbulge, Five Houses
- Platforms: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch
- Gameplay Length: 15–20 hours
- Key Features: Measure Effects combat system, nine musical classes, and original soundtrack
From Garage Band to Supernatural Survival
The story follows friends Faye, Ian, and Briff as they enter what they believe to be an ordinary battle of the bands competition. The premise quickly shifts when the trio finds themselves entangled in a supernatural curse. Instead of typical weapon-based combat, the game tasks players with fighting bizarre enemies using the power of music.
The experience is defined by the "Measure Effects" combat system, which blends turn-based mechanics with real-time decision-making. Players must manage which band member takes center stage; keeping one character in the spotlight for too long leaves them vulnerable, requiring you to constantly rotate your group to survive encounters.
New Content for the Console Launch
While the game originally debuted on PC in 2023, the console release provides what is described as the definitive version. Players on Xbox, PlayStation, and Switch will have immediate access to the latest update, which includes an optional Easy Mode for those looking for a more relaxed experience, as well as tougher boss variants for players seeking a challenge. Existing PC players will receive these additions as a free update.
Developer Dan Martin noted that the game is designed to bridge the gap between retro-inspired design and modern sensibilities. "Having it on consoles, where you can play it on a couch—or handheld on Switch wherever you like—just feels so right for Deathbulge’s unique twist on semi-real-time RPGs," said Martin. Beyond the core combat, the game features nine distinct musical classes ranging from Busker to Headbanger, along with a late-game dating segment and collectible merchandise that replaces standard consumable items.
Deathbulge: Battle of the Bands is available now on the Xbox Store with Xbox Play Anywhere support, as well as on PlayStation and Nintendo Switch.