Brutal Legend appearing at Spike VGAs (oh, and Jack Black as host)

Though still wandering a shadowy, publisher-less limbo, Brütal Legend stands tall in the minds of gamers everywhere, who are eager to see (and, perchance, if the Gods are favorable to their plight, experience) the latest from Tim Schafer and his crew at Double Fine. It is something of a blessing that we're able to count master thespian, raconteur, and all around rabble-rouser Jack Black amongst that group of gamers – not only is Mr. Black the centerpiece of Brütal Legend, he's the host of this year's Video Game Awards on Spike.

Astute readers may know we've had our fair share of complaints about the VGAs in the past. While last year included a roster of worthy winners (note: this blogger was, and is, a VGA judge) the actual show itself left ... well, it left a lot to be desired. While we're not sure how much better this year's show will be, Spike is replacing longtime host Samuel L. Jackson with someone who actually knows how to hold a game controller. Shocking! And Mr. Black is bringing a date to the show: "the world premiere of Brütal Legend gameplay."

You know what that means? The Spike VGAs just became must-see TV for nerds everywhere, who will undoubtedly cringe at the desperate gestures to the mainstream audience while celebrating the more obscure "world premieres" littered throughout the show. Included with the price of admission (free) is: Uncharted 2: Among Thieves, God of War III gameplay, Fight Night Round 4, Mafia II, Terminator Salvation, Watchmen: The End is Nigh, "a special announcement regarding Gears of War 2" (imulsion maps?) and more. Set those TiVos for December 14 at 9:00 PM ET – just be ready with that skip button.