Korn Unleash 1 Powerful New Anthem for Diablo IV: “Reward the Scars” Ignites the Hype

Reward the Scars Track cover

Gamers and metalheads, gather around. If you have been grinding for legendary loot and slaying the endless demonic hordes in Diablo IV, you might need a fresh soundtrack to keep the blood pumping. Thankfully, the pioneering nu metal legends in Korn have answered the call. The band recently dropped a brand new single titled “Reward the Scars”, and it serves as the official promotional anthem for the highly anticipated Diablo IV: Lord of Hatred expansion pack.

As someone who has spent way too many hours clicking on monsters until my mouse breaks, the crossover between heavy music and dark fantasy RPGs just makes absolute sense. You simply cannot deny the sheer joy of hearing down-tuned guitars while unleashing holy hell on the minions of Mephisto. “Reward the Scars” marks the very first piece of new music we have received from Korn since their 2022 studio album “Requiem”. It is a momentous occasion for fans of the Bakersfield crew, blending the gritty reality of their signature sound with the grimdark fantasy of the gaming universe.

A Match Made in the Burning Hells

Korn – Reward The Scars | Official Music Video for Diablo IV: Lord of Hatred, Courtesy of Korn and Blizzard Entertainment via YouTube

When the developers approached the band to create something special, they knew they needed a track that captured the bleak, oppressive atmosphere of Sanctuary. The result is “Reward the Scars”, a song that brings massive guitar riffs, thunderous bass lines, and the unmistakable, angst-ridden vocals of Jonathan Davis. The production team behind the track is an absolute powerhouse, featuring Nick Raskulinecz on production duties, Matt Hyde and James Harley handling the engineering, and Chris Lord-Alge mixing everything into a heavy, cohesive wall of sound.

Listening to this heavy hitting track feels like slipping on a familiar pair of boots, provided those boots are covered in iron spikes and demon blood. It carries the emotional weight and raw human baggage that Korn is famous for, translating perfectly into the dark world of Diablo IV: Lord of Hatred. It is a genuine emotional experience delivered through aggressive music, reminding us that even virtual battles can carry a heavy toll.

Tearing Up the Stage at Sick New World

Image of Heroes from the Reward the Scars music video
Image from the Reward the Scars music video, Courtesy of Blizzard Entertainment and Korn

You might be wondering if this new music holds up in a live setting, and the answer is a resounding yes. Korn recently headlined the Sick New World festival in Las Vegas, taking the massive stage to deliver a blistering set full of classics. Midway through the show, Jonathan Davis took a moment to address the screaming crowd. He playfully complained about being stuck in the studio for the past five years, explaining how the band had recorded some material, scrapped it entirely, and then finally created something they truly loved.

That highly praised new material included “Reward the Scars”, which received its glorious live debut right there in the neon-lit desert. The energy of the crowd was palpable, a beautiful, chaotic release of human emotion that only a live metal show can truly provide. For long-time fans, the setlist was a complete treasure trove. Not only did the audience get to hear the new track live, but the band also busted out the classic song “Proud” for the first time since 2011.

The Missing Piece of the Musical Puzzle

Korn group photo
KORN Group Photo, Courtesy of Korn-Photographer Tim Saccenti

While we can all celebrate the arrival of “Reward the Scars”, there is a noticeable shift in the band’s current dynamic. This track stands as the first Korn studio recording to not feature founding bassist Reginald Arvizu, better known to the gaming and music world as Fieldy. The legendary bassist stepped away from the band after the recording of “Requiem”, citing personal reflections and the intense complications surrounding the global events of the past few years.

Replacing a founding member is never an easy task, and it brings a wave of bittersweet emotion for those of us who grew up idolizing the original lineup. However, Roberto Diaz has stepped up to the plate to fill the void during live shows, and the band continues to push forward with fierce determination. Brian Welch, the band’s iconic guitarist, recently mentioned that they are not rushing to pump out a new album just yet. They are genuinely enjoying the slow, deliberate process of making music on their own terms.

Gearing Up for the Lord of Hatred

Image of Heroes fighting Diablo from the Reward the Scars music video
Image from the Reward the Scars music video, Courtesy of Blizzard Entertainment and Korn

Ultimately, “Reward the Scars” is a fantastic addition to the band’s sprawling catalog and a perfect hype builder for Diablo IV: Lord of Hatred. It might not instantly dethrone their classic hits, but it delivers the exact kind of heavy, brooding atmosphere you want when facing down prime evils. The vocals are buried just enough to feel mysterious, the bass is thick enough to rattle your ribs, and the overall vibe is unapologetically heavy.

So, as you prepare your character builds and ready your weapons for the new expansion, make sure you add “Reward the Scars” to your daily gaming playlist. It is the absolute perfect soundtrack for grinding loot, leveling up, and surviving the treacherous landscapes of Sanctuary.

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