Heavy Rain

 PlayStation 3
User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 3314 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2,533 out of 3314
  2. Mixed: 254 out of 3314
  3. Negative: 527 out of 3314
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  1. BenjaminB
    Feb 24, 2010
    9
    Probably not the best game for a preschool teacher in Portland, OR to be playing at this time of year
  2. CharlieF.
    Mar 2, 2010
    10
    This game is downright incredible. The bad reviews you see are...ridiculous. Any of the reviews that give this a 90 or lower I just cant respect. I know we're supposed to respect other people's decisions (and i normally do) but in this case, I simply can't respect anybody that reviews Heavy Rain and doesn't give it a "good" score. This game deserves all of the praise This game is downright incredible. The bad reviews you see are...ridiculous. Any of the reviews that give this a 90 or lower I just cant respect. I know we're supposed to respect other people's decisions (and i normally do) but in this case, I simply can't respect anybody that reviews Heavy Rain and doesn't give it a "good" score. This game deserves all of the praise it gets. Congratulations, Quantic Dream. You have made me feel more emotional about a video game than I ever have before.… Expand
  3. KarthXLR
    Mar 28, 2011
    6
    I don't think I've ever been this split on a game.

    I enjoyed the story half the time, and loathed it the other half. It's the strangest combination of terrible and fantastic dialogue and plot twists. I think I had the most issues with Madison because her character was inconsistent and was the source of the dumber parts of the story (psychopath ex-surgeon drug dealer anyone?). The controls    I don't think I've ever been this split on a game.

    I enjoyed the story half the time, and loathed it the other half. It's the strangest combination of terrible and fantastic dialogue and plot twists. I think I had the most issues with Madison because her character was inconsistent and was the source of the dumber parts of the story (psychopath ex-surgeon drug dealer anyone?). The controls were either fine or terrible, especially in some of Ethan's segments. Due to a control glitch (I think) Jayden got killed. Right before the end too. As far as vocal performances go, I'm not even sure what to say. Each character had great acting, but at some part of the game, each one of them had terrible deliveries.

    I'm kind of split on this one. I can't recommend buying it, but it's worth a rental I guess.    … Expand
  4. BradA
    Feb 25, 2010
    9
    I don't understand all of the hate for this! I am not generally into story driven games...I prefer instant gratification and shooters...but I was intrigued and picked it up. After my first play through I am sold. This is an amazing "game" that really draws you in and makes you part of the experience. During my first play through I did not replay any choices or faults...ended losing I don't understand all of the hate for this! I am not generally into story driven games...I prefer instant gratification and shooters...but I was intrigued and picked it up. After my first play through I am sold. This is an amazing "game" that really draws you in and makes you part of the experience. During my first play through I did not replay any choices or faults...ended losing two characters to gruesome deaths and a sense of awe over the experience. I can't recommend this enough. The ONLY thing I saw that holds it back is the control scheme...most of the time it works fine, but other times it just doesn't.… Expand
  5. Lucif3r
    Dec 1, 2013
    9
    One of the the most unique and satisfying gaming experiences you can have on the playstation 3. Even my friends were straight on hooked on this game who arent even into video games.
  6. RatedRevolver
    Jun 29, 2022
    0
    Ambitious but limited game trying to be a movie and ending up as a joke. The cascade of choices is an illusion for most of the game, pushing the protagonists onwards on rails to move the plot forward. It's a rip off of Se7en just with lots of plot holes.
  7. PentV
    Sep 22, 2020
    3
    I am ignoring the lack of gameplay. But the plot of this game has more holes than swiss cheese.
  8. Kamamura
    Sep 29, 2018
    3
    Narrative garbage full of plot holes and obviously cut material, combined with obsessive belief that mimicking mundane tasks like opening doors or drinking from glasses with your controller is a foundation of good gameplay. The game would be better presented as a non-interactive movie - if it had a sensible and enjoyable plot, which it does not.
  9. TTW107
    Feb 8, 2012
    9
    In an industry full of shooters and adventures and just the same formulas over and over this was a breath of minty fresh air. Only games that are truly great have me glued to the tv and I couldn't take my eyes off this one. I even replayed it a few times. Truly inventive game.
  10. SirFaulty
    Mar 4, 2018
    4
    Maybe in 2010 this b-grade potboiler was something for the medium to coo about but in 2018 it's flaws, and there are many, have become too apparent. From its ludicrous plot (filled with so much cringe-inducing ridiculousness that it makes the Saw franchise look like high art ), to its amateurish voice acting, to it's weak-as-piss character dialog, all ends up sinking Heavy Rain faster thanMaybe in 2010 this b-grade potboiler was something for the medium to coo about but in 2018 it's flaws, and there are many, have become too apparent. From its ludicrous plot (filled with so much cringe-inducing ridiculousness that it makes the Saw franchise look like high art ), to its amateurish voice acting, to it's weak-as-piss character dialog, all ends up sinking Heavy Rain faster than a lead balloon in one of the killers rain water ditches in which he uses to drown his victims.

    I will admit to enjoying it when it first released (there was nothing truly like it) but we have moved along in leaps and bounds which has left Heavy Rain as a depressingly clunky curio that has not aged well at all and, honestly, best left in the past.    … Expand
  11. Skitte
    Mar 12, 2014
    9
    Heavy Rain was and will be for long an unique game. Great plot, Very strong performance of the characters, new storylife for every protagonist, magnetizing story. The single thing that's a flaw for me is that the investigations that Jayden does are very boring and make the game a bit weeker. All in all, everything is very nice and you have to spend a lot of time, finding out what theHeavy Rain was and will be for long an unique game. Great plot, Very strong performance of the characters, new storylife for every protagonist, magnetizing story. The single thing that's a flaw for me is that the investigations that Jayden does are very boring and make the game a bit weeker. All in all, everything is very nice and you have to spend a lot of time, finding out what the endless ways the game has.… Expand
  12. gaminkid05
    Nov 8, 2011
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I loved this game. It was like playing a movie, that was how real it felt. I was so attached to my players that I got really upset when I thought Ethan died in the power plant level. What was cool was that you never had to go back and repeat what you did. The music was nice, the controls intuitive, and the graphics splendid. I'm really happy I bought this game. My only possible complaint would be that the beginning is slow, but I didn't find that annoying at all. All I can say is get this game!… Expand
  13. JDConspirator
    Jul 28, 2012
    10
    Heavy Rain is the best game on PS3. Was that not enough to compel you to buy it? Well let's scrape the false claims out of the way first. Heavy Rain is NOT a quick time event driven game. It may feel like it as you fiddle with the thumbsticks and follow direction cues. But Heavy Rain makes so much sense out of them in context. For example when you fuss around trying to undo your seatbelt,Heavy Rain is the best game on PS3. Was that not enough to compel you to buy it? Well let's scrape the false claims out of the way first. Heavy Rain is NOT a quick time event driven game. It may feel like it as you fiddle with the thumbsticks and follow direction cues. But Heavy Rain makes so much sense out of them in context. For example when you fuss around trying to undo your seatbelt, the feedback feels dynamic. Now to the game itself. Quantic Dream has given us a masterpiece of storytelling and design. There are 18 diiferent ending scenarios. Above all else though is the story that drives them. The game asks you how far will you go to save someone you love and all the way through the protagonists are torn by the past and want to save the future. Ethan Mars clearly defines this. He loses his older son Jason by a vehicular rundown and throughout the game he struggles to live with himself, especially when Shaun goes missing. Heavy Rain pulls you in with plenty of action sequences and spins a yarn which is truly phenominal. If you don't feel anything by the end of the game (no matter how many run throughs you do) something is definately wrong with you.… Expand
  14. BlackFalcon
    Sep 23, 2010
    8
    A great game. First the bad: there were a few glitches and the sound bytes were a bit sparse in some sections (i.e. only a couple recorded bits of "Shawn!" when a panicked father will sound differently at least 7 or 8 times). Now the good: great graphics, compelling story with a messed up killer and outrageous tests for the father, and ways to get more than one ending!

    A couple of bits    A great game. First the bad: there were a few glitches and the sound bytes were a bit sparse in some sections (i.e. only a couple recorded bits of "Shawn!" when a panicked father will sound differently at least 7 or 8 times). Now the good: great graphics, compelling story with a messed up killer and outrageous tests for the father, and ways to get more than one ending!

    A couple of bits that I found with faults. Where was Madison's background? Why the troubled nightmares and insomnia? Also, the game was a bit linear in its directing the player to achieve each goal, like it's easy for the FBI agent to find the killer through simple trial and error in the ARI system.

    If they make another game like this, I would suggest a bit more conclusion-making on the player's part if it's a mystery-like story. A good puzzle or two would also put some extra gems on the product.

    Overall: Definitely worth the rental as you can get through the game once within a couple days. Also, the game has a story and plays out like a movie enough that your spouse/friend/roommate would enjoy playing with you.    … Expand
  15. JDB4RDR
    Jan 18, 2011
    10
    There is a serial child killer known only as the Origami Killer who drowns his victimâ
  16. gamesGURUPRO
    Nov 9, 2010
    8
    I think that this game is not just a good she is gorgeous and David is greatman, but I dont understand why the critics have put such low scores. This is not a review.This is ****
  17. CoD4Killer
    Dec 20, 2010
    10
    One of my favorite games 2010. It's a brilliant game that every hardcore gamer should experience!
    If you don't have a ps3 this is a great reason to buy it!
  18. CDK86
    Jun 20, 2011
    10
    Amazing game. The graphics really show what the ps3 can do and the sound draws you in. Control wise the simple system serves to put you in authority but not detach you from the experience. In terms of story it really is blockbuster stuff and could easily be a movie!
  19. dariazzo
    Jun 17, 2011
    8
    Atmosphere, plot and most of the technical aspects are unbelievable. Gameplay easily allows you to enjoy the game, provided you set a decent difficulty level. Music is maybe the best in the history of gaming, and perfectly fits the pace o the story.
    But replayability is not justified by the need to see all the different endings. You'll end up replaying a lot of scenes in the same way,    Atmosphere, plot and most of the technical aspects are unbelievable. Gameplay easily allows you to enjoy the game, provided you set a decent difficulty level. Music is maybe the best in the history of gaming, and perfectly fits the pace o the story.
    But replayability is not justified by the need to see all the different endings. You'll end up replaying a lot of scenes in the same way, while slightly changing others, and then you'll do the opposite thing to try and achieve another ending.
    Not an hardcore gamers game, but for those who play games intensively but in short periods of time, Heavy Rain is a great way to gather your family and play together with them, unveiling a plot which has nothing to envy to Hollywood productions. Surely, something different in a completely risk-adverse console generation.    … Expand
  20. enzyme1
    Jul 4, 2011
    10
    i was obsessed with this game. the plot is amazing. it feels like an interactive movie at times but that is what i like. i empathized with all of the characters and loved the amazing and believable voice acting. the graphics are gorgeous and make this a truly fun modern adventure game. 10/10 for satisfaction and love
  21. AlienSpaceBats
    Oct 28, 2012
    10
    If there was a reason to buy a PS3, here it is. I loved Fahrenheit (aka Indigo Prophecy) but it was a shame Heavy Rain didn't make it cross-platform. I'm going to keep this short, as lengthy critique will just involve my gushing about the game ... (one word - wow). Heavy Rain is everything a modern game should be, compelling, cinematic and complex, it makes other games (and many films)If there was a reason to buy a PS3, here it is. I loved Fahrenheit (aka Indigo Prophecy) but it was a shame Heavy Rain didn't make it cross-platform. I'm going to keep this short, as lengthy critique will just involve my gushing about the game ... (one word - wow). Heavy Rain is everything a modern game should be, compelling, cinematic and complex, it makes other games (and many films) seem mundane by comparison. Very close to being a masterpiece.… Expand
  22. kitsoon
    Aug 25, 2011
    10
    There is no other game out there like this one right now. Its basically a movie, with quick time events for the action sequence and conversation puzzles for the talking parts. That sounds lame when I put that way but trust me, this game is awesome.
  23. Dr_Ubersexy
    Nov 27, 2011
    10
    I've played this all the way through twice now, and I'm still haunted by decisions I've made in it. On the second playthrough, something happened that I'm not going into detail about that literally scared me, and I don't get scared by much. This game is absolutely remarkable, and I plan on playing through it several more times to see the different endings. If you haven't played this gameI've played this all the way through twice now, and I'm still haunted by decisions I've made in it. On the second playthrough, something happened that I'm not going into detail about that literally scared me, and I don't get scared by much. This game is absolutely remarkable, and I plan on playing through it several more times to see the different endings. If you haven't played this game yet, then you need to, it is well worth your time.… Expand
  24. EnigmaReviews
    Jul 24, 2012
    8
    Quantic Dream is known for their amazing storytelling so you would expect the Heavy Rain to be no different. Well you're right. Heavy Rain has a blockbuster story. What makes it better is the graphics design of the character. Then there is the gameplay itself. That's what makes a game. But Heavy Rain does't have much of that. Everything seems like a giant interactive movie. There isn'tQuantic Dream is known for their amazing storytelling so you would expect the Heavy Rain to be no different. Well you're right. Heavy Rain has a blockbuster story. What makes it better is the graphics design of the character. Then there is the gameplay itself. That's what makes a game. But Heavy Rain does't have much of that. Everything seems like a giant interactive movie. There isn't much to do other than push the buttons that pops up on the screen. To put it simple it isn't much of a game. It's more like an interactive movie. Although the game is great it isn't a masterpiece. A game can have an amazing story but without the gameplay to back it up it just goes to waste. I like what Quantic Dream was aiming for which is why I am giving this game an 8/10. It was something new rather than another shooter but still I would've much preferred this be a movie rather than a game.… Expand
  25. kill9015
    Dec 6, 2011
    8
    when i first played this game i thought it was going to be another quick and easier fast button game, but this game really surprised the graphics were okay but the story and game play was truly fantastic. what is also good about this game is the multiple endings you can get because then how i do in the game determends what ending i get so i asked myself what would i do? the answer was KILLwhen i first played this game i thought it was going to be another quick and easier fast button game, but this game really surprised the graphics were okay but the story and game play was truly fantastic. what is also good about this game is the multiple endings you can get because then how i do in the game determends what ending i get so i asked myself what would i do? the answer was KILL EVERY THINK. what an ending. i would recommend this game to anyone with a good brain and doesn't spend day's on call of duty… Expand
  26. ilovegames32
    Jun 24, 2012
    9
    WARNING:THIS GAME IS NOT FOR ACTION JUNKIES WHO NEEDS CONSTANT ACTION TO STAY INTERESTED!! Now for people looking for something different while playing a game may I suggest to you...heavy rain! Heavy rain lets you play as four protagonist one of which is trying desperately to find his son after previously losing his oldest son in a car accident! Two years later he's half the man he used toWARNING:THIS GAME IS NOT FOR ACTION JUNKIES WHO NEEDS CONSTANT ACTION TO STAY INTERESTED!! Now for people looking for something different while playing a game may I suggest to you...heavy rain! Heavy rain lets you play as four protagonist one of which is trying desperately to find his son after previously losing his oldest son in a car accident! Two years later he's half the man he used to be..his marriage is over he's constantly having nightmare's and is seeing a shrink and his bond with his son is all but broken! By this point in the game I knew I would finish it multiple times because the story is what makes it worth playing! I was sucked in by the attention paid to the story as well as the graphics which is down right beautiful to behold!this game also gives you complete control over the story by letting you decide who lives and who dies which gives you so many reason's to replay it after you finish one of the games multiple stories! One reviewer said he tried to kill a character but it was just a dream so it sucked because it was a dream....? Well you cant kill her there because...well its a dream but trust me she gets the worst deaths in the game lol. Everything isn't good in heavy rain like the controls which takes time to get used to. Many times I took a wrong turn or found myself kissing a wall but its not to distracking also parts of the story will not be explained like ethans nightmare's of drowning kids or what was he doing/where was he during his blackouts but again its not to distracting from the rest of the narrative! This is a must play for gamers but even more so for developers because they've clearly ran out of idea's when it comes to good gameplay and story telling vs weak story and run and gun rehash! Get this game its a true diamond in a sea full on shooters!… Expand
  27. namDa65
    Jan 6, 2012
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game does not deserve the low user score currently on Metacritic so I will give it a 10. I personally rate it a 9, points for being unique and different, as well as engaging and immersive animations. I am personally a fan of experimental ways of telling a story in the video game medium, playing Quantic Dreams Indigo Prophecy, HL2 Mods - Dear Esther and Stanley's Parable. Heavy Rain is the evolution of what indigo prophecy was supposed to be and the evolution of the point and click adventure genre. (At least this is what I think Heavy Rain's roots are from -- Point and Click adventure games) . This is the push point and clicks need to turn into, interactive dramas with the occasional puzzle. Telltale tried to follow suit with their Jurassic Park that was released this November, and I find it fun with all of the QTE's. Anyways, if you are into cinematics and gorgeous cutscenes in your video games, as well as don't mind taking an observer seat in games such as L.A Noire, metal gear solid, and those huge open world rpg games games, then this game is for you. The story isn't even close to film quality yet, but this is the start of a revolution for storytelling in gaming.… Expand
  28. potatoes351
    Apr 4, 2012
    10
    The best game i have ever played hands down. The game has little actual gameplay is largely produced in QTE's but game play is not what the game is here for. It bridges the gap between films and games. The story of a twisted murderer who has good intentions, to find a father worthy of having a child. You play as 4 characters all tracking down said killer and bring back safety.
  29. Magnifico
    Mar 18, 2013
    10
    Sure the movements of the characters are irritating at times and the voice acting is not the best in the world, but all that is forgotten when you play the game and come to realise what a truely awesome experience it is. Since when has dying or coming short in a game make you more anxious to play further and see how the rest of the story unfolds?! Not often, and that is how I felt when ISure the movements of the characters are irritating at times and the voice acting is not the best in the world, but all that is forgotten when you play the game and come to realise what a truely awesome experience it is. Since when has dying or coming short in a game make you more anxious to play further and see how the rest of the story unfolds?! Not often, and that is how I felt when I played Heavy Rain! Love the game! Can play it over and over again...… Expand
  30. GamersLikeABoss
    Oct 2, 2013
    10
    Absolute brilliant piece of work. The plot was very well written and completely amazed after playing. Good graphics, the gameplay might be a bit boring for people who look for excited controls or gameplay. This is certainly one of the best stories I have ever heard through out my life. Too bad they are making a movie instead of another game though.....
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Awards & Rankings

18
#18 Best PS3 Game of 2010
3
#3 Most Discussed PS3 Game of 2010
4
#4 Most Shared PS3 Game of 2010

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
87

Generally favorable reviews - based on 107 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 99 out of 107
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 107
  3. 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. GamingXP
    92
    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.
    Read full review
  3. Playstation: The Official Magazine (US)
    100
    We're enjoying it immensely... It is a game like none other. [Mar 2010, p.66]
See all critic reviews »