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What Genre Screams Fantasy to You?
To me, no other genre screams Fantasy like METAL!
Introducing the Ultimate Fantasy Dungeon Crawl Playlist – because let’s face it, when it comes to fantasy, no genre screams it louder than METAL! Picture this: you’re exploring ominous dungeons, battling fierce monsters, and seeking epic treasures, all the while headbanging to the thunderous riffs and soaring vocals of your favorite metal bands. Inspired by conversations on the #music-to-quest-to channel of Kurgan’s HeroQuestFans Discord server, this playlist is your ticket to an immersive, face-melting adventure in the realm of fantasy metal.
The List At-a-Glance
Blind and Frozen – Immigrant Song – Through the Fire and Flames – Mammoth Rider – The Call of Ktulu – Defenders of Valhalla – Shield Wall – Drunken Dwarves – Gloryhammer – To Tame a Land – The Necromancer – The Bard’s Song
Get Know the Songs
12. Blind and Frozen – Berserker – Beast in Black
Beast in Black has been around since 2015, but I only recently discovered them. From the little bit of research that I’ve done on them, it sounds like a lot of their music borrows themes from the popular dark fantasy manga/anime Berserk. Beast in Black is a band born from the mind of Anton Kabanen, formerly of Battle Beast, and draws heavy influence from the dark, tragic fantasy of the manga Berserk. The band name itself is a direct nod to the series’ iconic Berserker Armor worn by the main character, Guts.
If your looking for a burst of energy right out of the gate, “Blind and Frozen” delivers in spectacular, melodramatic fashion. The song tells the tale of a powerful love turned tragic, wrapped in a blizzard of synths and power metal riffs. It captures that raw, over-the-top emotional energy you often find in fantasy epics. Think magic, curses, and fateful battles under blood-red moons. I think it’s also worth mentioning, this guy’s vocal range is insane!
Find Beast in Black’s music here: Amazon US | Amazon CA
11. Immigrant Song – Led Zeppelin III – Led Zeppelin
Few tracks have etched themselves into the mythic landscape of rock & metal like “Immigrant Song.” From the moment Robert Plant wails that iconic opening cry, you’re transported into a world of longships, frozen wastelands, and Norse gods. The song was inspired by Led Zeppelin’s 1970 tour of Iceland, where the landscapes and rich Viking history stirred something in the band.
Lyrically, it paints a vivid picture of Norse raiders setting sail, driven by conquest and the will of Odin. It’s essentially a three-minute epic poem, channeling the essence of ancient warriors and their relentless pursuit of glory. While Led Zeppelin has several fantasy-inspired tracks (like “Ramble On” and “Battle of Evermore”), “Immigrant Song” stands out as a war cry straight from the halls of Valhalla.
Find Led Zepplin’s music here: Amazon US | Amazon CA
10. Through the Fire and Flames – Inhuman Rampage – DragonForce
When it comes to capturing the essence of high fantasy heroism in musical form, few songs can match the intensity of DragonForce’s “Through the Fire and Flames.” Released in 2006, this track exploded in popularity thanks to its blistering speed and jaw-dropping guitar solos. It quickly became a modern metal anthem, one that feels like it was forged in the heat of a dragon’s breath.
The song is a tale of perseverance against overwhelming odds. It tells the story of warriors locked in an eternal struggle, crossing wastelands and facing unspeakable foes with unwavering courage. The over-the-top fantasy imagery; filled with fire, thunder, and redemption; makes it feel like a final chapter in an epic saga.
Musically, it’s relentless. The tempo, technicality, and theatricality combine into a whirlwind of sound that pushes the boundaries of what fantasy metal can be. It’s not just a song; it’s a gauntlet thrown at the feet of the unworthy.
Find DragonForce’s music here: Amazon US | Amazon CA
9. Mammoth Rider – The Revenant King – Visigoth
“Mammoth Rider” is a thunderous slab of traditional heavy metal that feels like it could have been unearthed from the ice alongside the creature in its title. Visigoth is known for their epic, narrative-driven songwriting, and this track is no exception. It tells the story of a lone warrior traversing a frozen wasteland atop a mammoth, wielding vengeance and honor as his guide.
The lyrics are steeped in sword-and-sorcery tropes, with imagery that evokes ancient battles, frost-covered landscapes, and indomitable strength. It’s a slow-burning epic that builds with purpose, driven by powerful riffs and soaring vocals that recall the grandeur of early Manowar and Dio.
“Mammoth Rider” taps into the raw, primal side of fantasy. A world where survival is harsh, glory is earned through blood, and legends are carved into stone and ice. It’s a track that feels timeless, as though it could echo through the halls of a frost giant’s fortress.
Find Visigoth’s music here: Amazon US | Amazon CA
8. The Call of Ktulu – Ride the Lightning – Metallica
“The Call of Ktulu” stands out as one of Metallica’s most haunting and atmospheric compositions. Released in 1984, this instrumental track draws its name and inspiration from the works of H.P. Lovecraft, particularly “The Call of Cthulhu.” Although the band altered the spelling slightly, the connection to Lovecraft’s cosmic horror in this songs mysterious and disturbing tone is unmistakable.
The song builds slowly, layering eerie melodies and brooding guitar work that evoke the sense of creeping dread and ancient, unknowable forces. Unlike the band’s typical aggressive thrash style, “The Call of Ktulu” leans into ambiance and progression, making it feel like a descent into madness or a journey into a forgotten tomb beneath the waves.
It’s an evocative piece that resonates with the themes of forbidden knowledge, cosmic terror, and the fragility of sanity, all core to Lovecraftian fantasy. Even without lyrics, the music tells a story that is both epic and unsettling, conjuring the lurking presence of something vast and beyond human comprehension.
Find Metallica’s music here: Amazon US | Amazon CA
7. Defenders of Valhalla – Prophecy of Ragnarok – Brothers of Metal
Brothers of Metal wear their mythological influences proudly, and “Defenders of Valhalla” is a prime example of their larger-than-life approach to Norse-inspired metal. This track is a battle hymn, a rallying cry for the chosen warriors who fight and fall gloriously, only to rise again in the halls of Valhalla.
The lyrics call directly upon the gods and traditions of Norse mythology, painting vivid images of Odin’s chosen, mead-soaked halls, and unending battlefields. The music blends thunderous riffs with choral vocals, giving the song a ceremonial feel, as though it’s being sung by an army on the eve of war.
Brothers of Metal balance a serious reverence for myth with a theatrical flair that brings the legends to life. Their music taps into the primal power of ancient tales, celebrating honor, strength, and the unbreakable spirit of warriors past.
Find Brothers of Metal’s music here: Amazon US | Amazon CA
6. Shield Wall – Berserker – Amon Amarth
I think we’re starting to see a theme here, I am really into Viking METAL! “Shield Wall” is a crushing, battle-ready anthem from Amon Amarth, a band deeply rooted in Norse mythology and Viking history. True to its name, the song is a call to arms, an invocation of the ancient battle formation used by Norse warriors to hold the line against overwhelming odds.
Lyrically, it captures the desperation and determination of warriors standing shoulder to shoulder, bracing for the enemy’s charge. With Johan Hegg’s thunderous vocals leading the charge and relentless guitar work driving the rhythm, the song creates an atmosphere of grim resolve and martial pride.
Amon Amarth’s music often blurs the line between myth and historical fiction, and “Shield Wall” is a prime example. It doesn’t just evoke fantasy; it pulls from the real-world traditions and battlefield tactics of the Viking age, adding a gritty, grounded edge to the epic tone of the music.
Find Amon Amarth’s music here: Amazon US | Amazon CA
5. Drunken Dwarves – Wintersaga – Wind Rose
“Drunken Dwarves” captures the raucous and chaotic energy that fantasy fans often associate with tavern scenes and dwarf-kind. Wind Rose, an Italian band heavily inspired by Tolkien’s dwarves, leans into every trope with pride: beards, ale, axes, and a healthy love for digging holes, battling orcs and breaking out in song.
This track is a folk-metal anthem that bursts with rhythmic chanting, driving drums, and a chorus built to be shouted in unison. The lyrics celebrate dwarven revelry, describing long nights of drinking and laughter in the company of comrades. It’s joyful and humorous, yet still grounded in the rich tradition of fantasy world-building.
Find Wind Rose’s music here: Amazon US | Amazon CA
4. Gloryhammer – Legends from Beyond the Galactic Terrorvortex – Gloryhammer
“Gloryhammer” is a perfect encapsulation of what makes this band such a unique force in fantasy metal. Founded by Alestorm’s Christopher Bowes, Gloryhammer is a concept band that tells an ongoing sci-fantasy saga across their albums. Their music follows the adventures of Prince Angus McFife as he battles the evil wizard Zargothrax, wielding the Hammer of Glory and traveling through time and space. “Zargothrax”?? Like Space Zargon right? The resemblance is uncanny, but I haven’t been able to find proof that the name is in fact inspired by HeroQuest.
The song “Gloryhammer” functions as both a battle anthem and a thematic centerpiece for the band. With lyrics that reference cosmic kings, enchanted weapons, and battles against undead unicorns, it fully embraces the absurd and the epic. Musically, it’s packed with soaring vocals, symphonic elements, and theatrical arrangements that rival the scale of any high fantasy novel.
This is fantasy metal at its most flamboyant and fun, filled with heroic bravado, intricate storytelling, and a self-aware sense of humor. It’s a celebration of all things fantastical, from epic quests to the absurdity of power-armored paladins fighting laser powered dragons.
Find Gloryhammer’s music here: Amazon US | Amazon CA
3. To Tame a Land – Piece of Mind – Iron Maden
“To Tame a Land” is Iron Maiden’s heavy metal tribute to Frank Herbert’s science fiction epic Dune. Originally titled “Dune,” the band was forced to change the name when Herbert denied permission, reportedly calling rock bands “barbaric.” Despite the title change, the song remains a faithful homage to the novel’s world and themes.
Lyrically, it recounts the journey of Paul Atreides as he transforms into the prophesied Muad’Dib, embracing his destiny amidst the harsh deserts of Arrakis. The track is rich with references to the Fremen, the sandworms, and the political machinations that define the universe of Dune. Its slower, brooding intro sets a contemplative tone before building into a driving, epic conclusion.
Musically, Iron Maiden uses shifting tempos and layered guitar work to evoke the vast, mysterious landscape of the desert planet. It’s a deep cut in their discography, but one that showcases their ability to merge classic literature with heavy metal storytelling. I get that it’s actually sci-fi themed and not specifically fantasy, but what is sci-fi really if not futuristic fantasy?
Find Iron Maiden’s music here: Amazon US | Amazon CA
2. The Necromancer – Caress of Steel – Rush
Released in 1975, “The Necromancer” is one of Rush’s earliest and most ambitious forays into fantasy storytelling. Clocking in at over 12 minutes, this three-part suite tells a dark and mysterious tale reminiscent of Tolkien-inspired adventures. The titular necromancer is a shadowy figure who rules over a desolate land, opposed by a trio of travelers who represent light, courage, and resistance.
The song is divided into movements, each shifting in tone and intensity to mirror the unfolding narrative. From the ominous, slow-building introduction to the triumphant climax, the structure feels like a mini fantasy saga in musical form. The lyrics evoke images of enchanted forests, ancient evils, and heroic confrontation.
Rush blends their signature progressive rock style with poetic storytelling, using shifting rhythms and textured instrumentals to create an immersive soundscape. “The Necromancer” stands as a testament to the band’s love of high-concept music and fantasy themes, laying the groundwork for future epics like “2112” and solidifying their place in the realm of narrative-driven rock.
Find Rush’s music here: Amazon US | Amazon CA
1. The Bard’s Song – Somewhere Far Beyond – Blind Guardian
If you compare the original 1992 version of The Bard Song with the more recent remastered version, Hansi’s iconic voice has not aged at all.
“The Bard’s Song (In the Forest)” is a rare gem in Blind Guardian’s discography. Known for their bombastic power metal sound and complex compositions, this acoustic ballad strips everything down to its core: a single voice, a guitar, and a timeless story.
The song pays tribute to the typical bard, the wandering storyteller who carries the history and legends of their people. Inspired in part by the role-playing game The Bard’s Tale, it resonates with anyone who’s ever been swept away by a well-told tale. With its gentle melody and introspective lyrics, the song invites listeners to pause, reflect, and remember the power of stories to unite and inspire.
Despite its simplicity, it has become one of Blind Guardian’s most beloved songs, often performed live with thousands of fans singing every word. It’s a reminder that even in the loudest, most chaotic fantasy worlds, there’s a place for quiet moments of connection and remembrance.
Blind Guardian is an all-time favourite for me. If you are into thematic albums like I am, you should really check out: Nightfall in Middle Earth. Nightfall is an artful retelling of Tolkien’s The Silmarillion in Metal form. If you’re looking for something that is more Symphonic Metal, you should check out their thematic album: Blind Guardian Twilight Orchestra: Legacy of the Dark Lands, which tells a sequel story to The Dark Lands by Markus Heitz.
Find Blind Guardian’s music here: Amazon US | Amazon CA
Take me to the Whole Playlist
Checkout the whole playlist on YouTube, or watch play the whole thing here:
Final Thoughts
Fantasy and metal have always been a natural pairing for me. I have deeply nostalgic memories from my youth of riding the bus while reading a fantasy novel and listening to my favourite metal bands. Both embrace the epic, the emotional, and the larger-than-life feel that makes fantasy so much fun. They have a way of pulling you out of the real world for a bit and giving you a break from everyday life. These songs aren’t just background music; they set the stage, raise the stakes, and bring that extra spark to every adventure, whether it’s exploring dungeons, crafting stories, or painting up a warband late into the night.
Of course, this is just one version of what a fantasy dungeon crawl playlist could look like. There are so many incredible tracks out there that channel the same spirit. What would you add to the list? Drop your favorites in the comments. I’d love to hear what songs fuel your quests.
Thanks for stopping by, hope to see you again soon.
