User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 3314 Ratings

User score distribution:
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  1. JamesD
    Mar 1, 2010
    10
    If you go into Heavy Rain thinking that this is going to be a full blown action game, you will not be impressed. If you go into it thinking you'll be engaged because of the narrative, then yes that is most certainly what Heavy Rain will give you. This is the most emotional game I've ever played and I think it is crafted so well that no other medium could possibly handle its If you go into Heavy Rain thinking that this is going to be a full blown action game, you will not be impressed. If you go into it thinking you'll be engaged because of the narrative, then yes that is most certainly what Heavy Rain will give you. This is the most emotional game I've ever played and I think it is crafted so well that no other medium could possibly handle its originality. From its innovative use of quick time button presses, to the brilliant story with multiple epilogues, then this is a 10 hour movie extraveganza. This is no dumb game with a subtly driven plot. I found myself almost in tears at some of the harsher moments and with joy at the most proudest of these moments. This is a game that PS3 needs and as far as my objective opinion goes, this is the best story driven game I have ever played. Yes there are some rather dumb level design choices and the walking around sections are clunky but these issues are completely thrown when uncovering what a lovely experience it really is. Expand
  2. PierreC
    Mar 1, 2010
    3
    If you talk away the "interactive" aspect of the game, all you'll get is an interesting story with even more uninteresting characters. Oh and here's something else to make you not buy the game. In one scene that lasts about, say, five minutes, you don't have to touch the controller... AT ALL. You could fail at every QTE, get stabbed and you still won't die, I've If you talk away the "interactive" aspect of the game, all you'll get is an interesting story with even more uninteresting characters. Oh and here's something else to make you not buy the game. In one scene that lasts about, say, five minutes, you don't have to touch the controller... AT ALL. You could fail at every QTE, get stabbed and you still won't die, I've tried. However, the scenes completely pointless anyhow because if you DO fail, it was a dream anyhow. Haaaaaaaa, I hate humanity. Expand
  3. PabloH
    Mar 1, 2010
    10
    I really enjoyed this game although I know many of my friends will completely miss the point and write it off but for those of you who yearn for something different with a bit of depth I can't recommend this game enough!
  4. AndrewH
    Feb 28, 2010
    10
    OKAY NOOOOBS, The lead creator David Cage stated that the game (interactive movie) would'nt be for every one " love it or hate it", okay Noobs, and i personally love this game from story to gameplay.
  5. KayE
    Feb 28, 2010
    4
    Wow. I don't think i've been so stunned at how incredibly dull a game is. Heavy Rain is one of those silly critics favourite games that only attains critical acclaim because it 'juxtaposes the intricacies of suburban life with the...' blah blah blah. Dull for hours and hours, poor controls, the movement is woeful and the characters are awful, not to mention to voice Wow. I don't think i've been so stunned at how incredibly dull a game is. Heavy Rain is one of those silly critics favourite games that only attains critical acclaim because it 'juxtaposes the intricacies of suburban life with the...' blah blah blah. Dull for hours and hours, poor controls, the movement is woeful and the characters are awful, not to mention to voice acting which makes Arnie and JCVD look class. The father character is one of the worst videogame characters ive ever come across, i ended up trying to kill myself in the game he was such a tool. Heavy Rain has shown me a distrubing direction for gaming and i hope this is avoided, its an even poorer videogame version of the Saw films. Admittedly it has an addictive value and is tempting to continue playing but with depressing storylines and blandness throughout i'd strongly advise just a rental, purely in order to say wow this is atrocious. Expand
  6. JasonB
    Feb 28, 2010
    10
    This is an extremely fun game. It is story and emotionally driven, so if you are in love with the same old fps games you probably will not enjoy it as much as me, but you will still enjoy it. It is a game EVERYONE must try, no matter if people say its good or bad because it is a game unlike any other, a sparkling gem in a world dominated by shooting games. The people who usually This is an extremely fun game. It is story and emotionally driven, so if you are in love with the same old fps games you probably will not enjoy it as much as me, but you will still enjoy it. It is a game EVERYONE must try, no matter if people say its good or bad because it is a game unlike any other, a sparkling gem in a world dominated by shooting games. The people who usually don't like this game, no offense, are more apathetic than normal (Probably by playing all those shooting games). If you feel an iota of emotion, this game will have you engaged as you become involved. The decisions actually became really tough for me, especially at the end. The first hour or so is slow, but it really picks up. I did notice a few glaring plot holes, but this is a game I will probably play again and again to get the full effect. Trust me, try it. If you don't like it, at least you experienced a game that truly crossed a new threshold. The story is driven by one, central question, and if you can ask YOURSELF that question while you play, if you can imagine YOURSELF in Ethan's position and your son in Shaun's, How far will you go to save someone you love? Expand
  7. BerneG
    Feb 28, 2010
    4
    Gameplay is horrible to begin with. The graphics are not everything, and this game is proof of that. The story is too predictable right from the start. And the development too. Sure, the graphics and the atmosphere were well done, but it is the only positive point. Furthermore, the length of the game is extremely short. Not the best, not the worst.
  8. Mikey
    Feb 28, 2010
    1
    Came in knowing very little about the game and wish I had stayed completely oblivious. I just beat my first play through and whole heartedly recommend that this game be skipped. where to begin, controls that won't move your character where you want him to, embarrassingly horrible voice "acting", plot holes, just...it doesn't work. I don't biuy into these characters, they Came in knowing very little about the game and wish I had stayed completely oblivious. I just beat my first play through and whole heartedly recommend that this game be skipped. where to begin, controls that won't move your character where you want him to, embarrassingly horrible voice "acting", plot holes, just...it doesn't work. I don't biuy into these characters, they move, talk and react like robots almost toa point where it's laughable. No one is supposed to laugh when a kid gets hit by a car but you'll get that only here. Don't know what to say about gameplay. The QTE tricks you into thinking you're part of the action but let's not fool ourselves. Expand
  9. JohnnyH
    Feb 28, 2010
    10
    It's a very deviding game - you'l either love it or hate it. It has an immersive and thrilling story line and sublime graphics, but doesn't offer much else. It sounds like a cliche these days but Heavy Rain really is like playing a movie. Every animation in every scene in the entire game is capture with real actors, and the graphics are better than the cut scenes of most It's a very deviding game - you'l either love it or hate it. It has an immersive and thrilling story line and sublime graphics, but doesn't offer much else. It sounds like a cliche these days but Heavy Rain really is like playing a movie. Every animation in every scene in the entire game is capture with real actors, and the graphics are better than the cut scenes of most other games. Graphics aside, the story is very well paced and thought through. The main characters are well defined and generally likable. Generally, buy this game if an "Interactive Drama" sounds appealing to you. Expand
  10. AlexK.
    Feb 28, 2010
    3
    Some of the worst voice acting in a videogame, to date (in compeitition with Shenmue's VA). The "tragoc" event in the first 5 minutes of the game involving a 10 year old kid inexplicably walking away from his parents and of all places head outside to cross a road is a new low in believability and writing. This is but a small sample of factors that take you out of what was intended to Some of the worst voice acting in a videogame, to date (in compeitition with Shenmue's VA). The "tragoc" event in the first 5 minutes of the game involving a 10 year old kid inexplicably walking away from his parents and of all places head outside to cross a road is a new low in believability and writing. This is but a small sample of factors that take you out of what was intended to be an emotional ride but ends up being so laughably awful, you may not care for what comes next. 4 hours in and I never did. Expand
  11. PsyminC
    Feb 28, 2010
    9
    Heavy Rain is a game unlike any other. I am not really sure why everyone bashes the gameplay- I had more tense moments in this game than any other game released this year, or last, and it was because of the gameplay. Obviously, the story is the REASON to play the game because it is enthralling, and the characters are well laid out, but don' t just brush off the fun gameplay Heavy Rain is a game unlike any other. I am not really sure why everyone bashes the gameplay- I had more tense moments in this game than any other game released this year, or last, and it was because of the gameplay. Obviously, the story is the REASON to play the game because it is enthralling, and the characters are well laid out, but don' t just brush off the fun gameplay mechanics. My only complaint comes with the sometimes wonky, often clunky controls. This was nowhere near a game-killing problem, though, and I was able to see play through it just fine. The real point that makes this game worth your time and money, though, lies in the repayability of the title. You can play through it making different choices each time, and get a different story. It is really unparalleled in that regard. Lastly, the graphics are stunning (I have never seen better hair in a video game)! Overall, Heavy Rain is a stellar title that is absolutely worth your time. 9 out of 10. Expand
  12. KevonW
    Feb 28, 2010
    10
    Heavy Rain is very underrated and at first I was very reluctant to purchase this game. The story is great and the characters are very well developed. This game draws you and end keeps you wondering what is going to happen next. People have been giving this game poor reviews because they try to compare it to other genres this is one of those situations where you just got to sit back and Heavy Rain is very underrated and at first I was very reluctant to purchase this game. The story is great and the characters are very well developed. This game draws you and end keeps you wondering what is going to happen next. People have been giving this game poor reviews because they try to compare it to other genres this is one of those situations where you just got to sit back and enjoy it. I completed the game in about 8 hours and the ended I saw was pretty good. There are a lot of twist and turns with this game but the playing experience is very rewarding. I will say that this game deserves patience at the start and you got to give it chance to get the full effect. So if you want a great 8 to 10 hour experience I fully recommend this game. Expand
  13. WillS
    Feb 27, 2010
    4
    A slow, dull, boring game concept: a cinematic game made up almost entirely of quicktime events, that takes place in a dull gray-brown colored world where people's lip movements are off. No thanks. This is not a game. This is the death of gaming if the public lets it live up to the acclaim and praise all of the critics are pouring onto it like a heavy rain. Buy and umbrella and A slow, dull, boring game concept: a cinematic game made up almost entirely of quicktime events, that takes place in a dull gray-brown colored world where people's lip movements are off. No thanks. This is not a game. This is the death of gaming if the public lets it live up to the acclaim and praise all of the critics are pouring onto it like a heavy rain. Buy and umbrella and don't play it. Expand
  14. DanielW
    Feb 27, 2010
    10
    A wonderful nod back to the adventure games of the past. Heavy Rain is a wonderful interactive story with great characters and an intriguing plot . It is unique experience not seen elsewhere. If you like a good story, check it out. If you're looking for Halo and Modern Warfare...pass this one up.
  15. Shad0wCK
    Feb 26, 2010
    10
    This game is awesome, a contender for Game of the Year 2010 for sure. Graphics are amazing, and the storyline took my breath away. A must buy! I'm so glad I own a PS3.
  16. AlexS
    Feb 26, 2010
    1
    It's very very bad.. I can't believe I waisted 10 hours of my life on this game. Actually I had to force myself to get to the end of it. Better not, the ending is unbelievably dumb. My advice: better watch those walkthrough videos on youtube, you'll save yourself 60 bucks and will not lose any experience btw. End of rant.
  17. RichO
    Feb 26, 2010
    6
    Amazing graphics and storyline can't carry this game. Boring gameplay consists of interacting with objects, selecting dialogue choices from a spinning undulating and hard to read list, and matching button presses that flash onscreen. The horrid controls add to this underwhelming experience. That said this is still a revolutionary game which will hopefully inspire a game that will Amazing graphics and storyline can't carry this game. Boring gameplay consists of interacting with objects, selecting dialogue choices from a spinning undulating and hard to read list, and matching button presses that flash onscreen. The horrid controls add to this underwhelming experience. That said this is still a revolutionary game which will hopefully inspire a game that will deliver what this game cannot. Expand
  18. EdB
    Feb 26, 2010
    10
    Absolutely Amazing. Truly never played anything like it. It isn't right to even call it simply a game, because it truly is so much more. It is an interactive masterpiece. A type of visual storytelling never seen before. It is an experience that defines why gaming should be accepted as a form of art. Brilliant. Do not listen to any of the Xbots who are jealous of this games success. Absolutely Amazing. Truly never played anything like it. It isn't right to even call it simply a game, because it truly is so much more. It is an interactive masterpiece. A type of visual storytelling never seen before. It is an experience that defines why gaming should be accepted as a form of art. Brilliant. Do not listen to any of the Xbots who are jealous of this games success. Pathetic Fanboys like that are not even real gamers. Real Games are open to ALL games on ALL systems without any Bias. Fake Gamers (Fanboys) purposely limit themselves because of a juvenile and pathetic bias towards the competition. They willingly refuse to experience games, not because they aren't good, but because of some blind loyalty. How is it fair to call both of these groups "Gamers" when only one is willing to experience games to the fullest? Fanboys have no business playing games. Expand
  19. DaveG
    Feb 26, 2010
    1
    The graphics aren't that great. That's the good news. I was never as bored in my entire life as I was playing this "game". I gave Heavy Rain 2hrs worth of undivided attention and I came away with the inability to speak clearly and I couldn't seem to find my way around the house for about a day. DO NOT SUBJECT YOURSELF TO THIS TYPE OF PUNISHMENT!!!
  20. DavidS
    Feb 26, 2010
    8
    This game really surprised me. I'd had high high hopes for a story central game where the quicktime events fleshed out scripted scenes with some level of choice, but the way it all comes together is astounding. The game is not without flaws of course. The beginning can be a bit slow, it has a pretty glaring plot hole that's never explained, the controls for walking around are This game really surprised me. I'd had high high hopes for a story central game where the quicktime events fleshed out scripted scenes with some level of choice, but the way it all comes together is astounding. The game is not without flaws of course. The beginning can be a bit slow, it has a pretty glaring plot hole that's never explained, the controls for walking around are pretty archaic, and some of the voice acting can be sub-par (what with how some are obviously Europeans trying to sound American). However the game makes you actually care about the 4 main characters, and it does this so well that the action scenes are made that much more intense because if you screw up (which admittedly can be hard to do) that character will die and you have to go through the rest of the game knowing its your fault. I could actually feel my heart pumping during the action scenes and was genuinely distraught when I thought I had screwed up. When you care that much about a character's well being then you know the game has nailed it's goal of drawing you in to the story. The plot is stellar for a game and it almost feels like you're watching a thriller movie, but the choices and consequences push it further and make this a truly personal experience. Anyone looking for a game that puts an emphasis on skill and/or mindless fun won't find what they are looking for in Heavy Rain, but if you want an experience that will keep you enthralled till you see the dramatic conclusion then you CAN'T miss this game. Some people don't even call this a game (and it's true the gameplay itself is kept to a minimum), but if it's not then whatever Heavy Rain is it's something special and I definitely wouldn't mind seeing more of it. Expand
  21. TravisC
    Feb 26, 2010
    10
    This is easily one of the best games ever. The story is fresh and keeps you guessing all the way. The gameplay may be simple but if you think it can't be as intense as a game like call of duty then you are so wrong. My stomach was in knots the entire time. This has some of the most intense sequences in gaming ever. Get it now. if you don't have a ps3 then buy one of those and This is easily one of the best games ever. The story is fresh and keeps you guessing all the way. The gameplay may be simple but if you think it can't be as intense as a game like call of duty then you are so wrong. My stomach was in knots the entire time. This has some of the most intense sequences in gaming ever. Get it now. if you don't have a ps3 then buy one of those and then get heavy rain. It is worth it. Expand
  22. WarrenV
    Feb 26, 2010
    9
    This is probably one of the most important games of this generation; its story is gripping and deep, the immersion achieved by the makers and their control system is truly astounding and the graphics are gorgeous at depicting dilapidated surroundings and almost photorealistic characters, all sprinkled with lots of rain. This is the next step in the age-old point-and-click adventure genre.
  23. JamesS
    Feb 26, 2010
    10
    First, as said many times, this game is not for 'everyone'. It is an interactive movie. There is no right or wrong in the game, just consequences from your decisions (or lack of being quick on the quick time events) I loved the story and was very engrossed into the characters you control. I wanted the best for them. My only complaint is the game is pretty short (10-15 hours but First, as said many times, this game is not for 'everyone'. It is an interactive movie. There is no right or wrong in the game, just consequences from your decisions (or lack of being quick on the quick time events) I loved the story and was very engrossed into the characters you control. I wanted the best for them. My only complaint is the game is pretty short (10-15 hours but does offer replay value to those who want to try different scenerios) so it maybe isn't a "must buy". But I highly recommend anyone who calls themselves a "gamer" to play this. Rent it, borrow it, buy it, or whatever. But DO check it out. Expand
  24. gnapoug
    Feb 26, 2010
    2
    Interactive movie. Why not... But the main problem is that Heavy Rain, is just a interactive BAD movie. With the "brownish" color palette, Heavy Rain could intrigue with the David Fincher's Zodiac look, but the Story telling is amateurish, the acting is bad. Characters have nothing to rely on emotionnaly. Heavy Rain gave the player the feeling that David Cage is too busy watching Interactive movie. Why not... But the main problem is that Heavy Rain, is just a interactive BAD movie. With the "brownish" color palette, Heavy Rain could intrigue with the David Fincher's Zodiac look, but the Story telling is amateurish, the acting is bad. Characters have nothing to rely on emotionnaly. Heavy Rain gave the player the feeling that David Cage is too busy watching himself "creating" instead of offering the player, at least, a satisfying movie to watch. Heavy Rain is not even as interesting as a non-interactive benchmark demo. You want a interactive-cinematic experience? Get Uncharted 2. You'll have the thrill, the emotional and charismatic characters, without the pretention. Expand
  25. Ryusennin
    Feb 26, 2010
    4
    You've already heard everything about Heavy Rain. It's the best thing since sliced bread. Its graphics blow Uncharted 2 out of the water. Its interactive storytelling is a revolution. Bullshit. Heavy Rain is a souped up spiritual and technical sequel to Fahrenheit. It presents the same qualities (an intriguing yet repetitive gameplay which tries too much to copycat Shenmue You've already heard everything about Heavy Rain. It's the best thing since sliced bread. Its graphics blow Uncharted 2 out of the water. Its interactive storytelling is a revolution. Bullshit. Heavy Rain is a souped up spiritual and technical sequel to Fahrenheit. It presents the same qualities (an intriguing yet repetitive gameplay which tries too much to copycat Shenmue without ever being able to equal it or even understand it) and the very same flaws. Technically, it's not stunning. Character graphics are nicely done, but the whole affair is largely inferior to other mocap achievements like Uncharted or Heavenly Sword. The game is littered with glitches -- I personally didn't encounter any serious showstopper, but apparently many people have suffered from aggravating bugs and even profile corruption. The most serious flaw of Fahrenheit was its downright mediocre ending. Just imagine David Lynch concluding his Twin Peaks series with an over-the-top air fight obviously inspired by Matrix 3 (complete with conspiracies about artificial intelligences and Mayan prophecies). Yeah, I bet you didn't see that coming either. Heavy Rain unfortunately goes the same way with an impossible Deux Ex Machina final twist, and once again proves that the failed moviemaker David De Grutolla (aka David Cage in English-speaking countries) is a decent director but an awful and amateur scriptwriter. Is Heavy Rain the "revolution" of videogaming? Heck no. Not even close. In five years, it will be remembered the same way as the FMV games from the mid-1990s. A strange yet futile gameplay experiment, with an appaling narrative by a wannabe David Fincher. David Cage is really turning into the Uwe Boll of videogames. Expand
  26. MikeS.
    Feb 26, 2010
    10
    No matter what games come out by year's end, yes that includes GOD OF WAR 3, HEAVY RAIN is my game of 2010. A game has never effected me emotionally like this... ever, and by the end, my heart was racing, and the game became almost too much! This is a cornerstone in interactive entertainment. A LANDMARK.
  27. LongJ
    Feb 26, 2010
    10
    Best story for a video game ever!!!!!!!! I can easily see how some people won't like it but as I think OPM UK said 'This is an unmissable experience, YOU HAVE TO PLAY IT!' and I agree with that in every single way! Sure the controls are a little bit stupid but overall... AMAZING! It really is unmissable, YOU HAVE TO PLAY IT! And its a shame that fanboys are polluting this Best story for a video game ever!!!!!!!! I can easily see how some people won't like it but as I think OPM UK said 'This is an unmissable experience, YOU HAVE TO PLAY IT!' and I agree with that in every single way! Sure the controls are a little bit stupid but overall... AMAZING! It really is unmissable, YOU HAVE TO PLAY IT! And its a shame that fanboys are polluting this comment page! I know it is a love it or hate it but I would say it is a 85% love 15% hate and it has been patched so it doesn't screw your PS3 up! And if they rated it 0 then why the hell did they play to the end? FANBOY SPAM!!!!! This is a story telling experience that can't be missed! And although it would be brilliant as a movie it just wouldn't work out! I would highly reccommend this game! HIGHLY!!!!!! But unless you are really interested then just rent it and see all endings like me :( I regret renting it instead of buying it! I thought this game would be a useless game about pressing buttons! WRONG! Expand
  28. JeffS
    Feb 26, 2010
    9
    It is a very correct statement to say that this game is NOT for everyone. This is certainly for a more mature gamer, someone that doesn't need to be killing someone or something every 5 minutes or less. It is interactive storytelling at its finest and has many innovative qualities including stellar graphics. The gameplay itself boils down to a combination of quicktime events, precise It is a very correct statement to say that this game is NOT for everyone. This is certainly for a more mature gamer, someone that doesn't need to be killing someone or something every 5 minutes or less. It is interactive storytelling at its finest and has many innovative qualities including stellar graphics. The gameplay itself boils down to a combination of quicktime events, precise analog controller movements and clue investigation all of which comes together very nicely. If you need a game your girlfriend can get into, this could be the one. If you only play Space Commando or Football games, this is a rental for sure. I love this game. I'm halfway through my second play and am already thinking about what I will do the 3rd time through. Expand
  29. PaulS
    Feb 26, 2010
    10
    I don't normally vote, but I am truly wondering if any of the people who are trashing this game have actually played it for any length of time. I'm about 60% of the way through the game, and I have been on the edge of my seat the entire time. Without giving any spoilers, the story is fantastic, and you are often forced to make split-second decisions that have lasting I don't normally vote, but I am truly wondering if any of the people who are trashing this game have actually played it for any length of time. I'm about 60% of the way through the game, and I have been on the edge of my seat the entire time. Without giving any spoilers, the story is fantastic, and you are often forced to make split-second decisions that have lasting repercussions throughout the remainder of the game. This game is action-packed, albeit interactively, so there is no Halo-style shooting or God of War-esque button-mashing. The action contained in these scenes, though is frantic and fast-paced, and the story will continue on if you fail and your character dies. Lastly, the voice acting (which seems to be a major complaint) does sound a little strange, but you have to consider the fact that these are not American actors. Overall, a fantastic game with a thrilling and tense story. Well worth the price of admission. Expand
  30. StevenS
    Feb 26, 2010
    9
    This arrived yesterday morning from HMV. I got the collectors edition and played it through in one sitting. It's a long time since I've sat at a computer overnight but it was too brilliant to put down. There are areas of the game where the controls get a little clunky and for that I marked the game down one point. Other than that it is amazing. There are hundreds of first person This arrived yesterday morning from HMV. I got the collectors edition and played it through in one sitting. It's a long time since I've sat at a computer overnight but it was too brilliant to put down. There are areas of the game where the controls get a little clunky and for that I marked the game down one point. Other than that it is amazing. There are hundreds of first person shooters released each year, multitudes of driving games. Yes, it has it's flaws but this game is different, it's original, and it's amazingly well done. Expand
Metascore
87

Generally favorable reviews - based on 107 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 99 out of 107
  2. Negative: 3 out of 107
  1. Playstation Official Magazine UK
    90
    Put gaming conventions aside, go in with no expectations other than this is something new and massively good-looking, and you'll be rewarded with a unique experience that lurches between genius and madness, manages to be genuinely emotional, and that you'll be bursting to talk about with your friends. [Feb 2010]
  2. For many people Heavy Rain won’t be more than a progression of quick-time-events, but for me this game has everything a great game needs. The thrilling story, the beautiful graphics and the innovative controls will let you play on and on, till you just can’t look any longer into your TV.
  3. Playstation: The Official Magazine (US)
    100
    We're enjoying it immensely... It is a game like none other. [Mar 2010, p.66]